European countries approved on Thursday a minimal compromise on reducing their greenhouse gas emissions by 2035, in order not to arrive empty-handed at the UN General Assembly next week, and at COP30 in Brazil in November.
Brussels – Instead of making a decision, the Twenty-Seven approved in Brussels a range for reducing their emissions, between -66.25% and -72.5% compared to 1990, and which will be refined if they reach an agreement in the coming weeks or months.
Denmark, which holds the rotating presidency of the European Union, proposed this compromise to show that Europe has not given up on its environmental “leadership,” despite its divisions.
There was urgency. The President of the Commission, Ursula von der Leyenmust defend Europe’s climate ambitions next Wednesday in New York, on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly. And COP30, the major UN climate conference, starts on November 10 in Brazil.
But the document approved Thursday after tough negotiations among the Environment ministers is just a simple “statement of intent” and not a firm commitment.
It is “far from ideal,” but “it is the best option” at this stage, tempers Elisa Giannelli from the think tank E3G. It “allows the European Union to save face internationally.” (September 18, 2025)
