The German Environment Minister, Carsten Schneider, is advocating for a swift agreement on increased EU climate targets ahead of a crucial meeting of EU environment ministers. In an interview with the “Süddeutsche Zeitung”, Schneider emphasized the importance of maintaining trust within the international climate protection arena. He stated that the world is closely observing the EU’s actions and that the bloc cannot expect contributions from others if it fails to demonstrate its own commitment.
Originally planned for this Thursday, a decision on a new climate goal for 2040 has been postponed. This target is intrinsically linked to the EU’s commitment to greenhouse gas reductions by 2035, as stipulated by the Paris Climate Agreement. The EU had intended to present a corresponding plan this month, but the issue has now been escalated to the European Council, where heads of state and government will make the decision, currently scheduled for October.
While acknowledging a quicker resolution would be preferable, Schneider stressed that the European Union must present a new, robust target no later than the start of the World Climate Conference in Belém, Brazil, in mid-November. The delay, he implied, risks undermining the EU’s credibility and influence on global climate action.