Negotiations surrounding the European Union’s fleet emission targets have resulted in a significant weakening of previously ambitious climate goals, allowing new vehicles to continue emitting CO2 beyond 2035. The compromise, reportedly spearheaded by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, shifts the mandated reduction in CO2 emissions from a full 100% to a mere 90% for new vehicle registrations beginning in 2035. Furthermore, the stricter 100% target has been abandoned entirely for 2040.
According to Manfred Weber, head of the European People’s Party and CSU deputy, the revised agreement effectively secures the continued production and sale of vehicles utilizing existing combustion engines. Proponents of the deal, including those within the German automotive industry, argue it safeguards tens of thousands of jobs within the sector.
The shift in policy, expected to be formally announced next week, has been attributed not only to von der Leyen’s stance but also to a joint letter authored by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk. This intervention underscores a growing pushback against stringent climate regulations from within the EU, particularly from nations with significant automotive industries.
The previously envisioned pathway aimed to progressively reduce the permissible CO2 emissions per kilometer from the current 93.6 grams to zero by 2035, effectively phasing out new combustion engine vehicles. This revised agreement represents a significant deviation from that plan and a retreat from the “Fit-for-55” package, which was crucial for steering the EU towards limiting global warming to just above two degrees Celsius. Prior to this adjustment, projections indicated a potentially devastating rise in global temperatures exceeding four degrees.
Critics argue the diluted targets not only undermine the EU’s commitment to mitigating climate change but also expose the bloc to potential legal challenges. The International Court of Justice recently affirmed that nations have a legal obligation to limit emissions in alignment with the 1.5-degree target and failures to do so could lead to financial penalties. The decision raises concerns about the EU’s credibility on the international stage and the potential for increased pressure to adhere to more ambitious climate commitments. The compromise also highlights the persistent tension between climate ambitions and economic and political considerations within the EU’s complex decision-making process.