We, European youth organisations, welcome the European Commission’s formal proposal to amend the EU Climate Law to include a 2040 target of 90% net greenhouse gas emissions reductions following months of delays and speculation. However, as stated in our previous reaction, we believe that more ambition is needed in line with scientific advice.
We remain concerned about the inclusion of international carbon credits in achieving this target. The track record of the mechanism is plagued with scandals, fraud, and unsustainable practices. They have proven to be a poor indicator of the EU’s contribution to lower emissions in third countries, and in some cases led to land grabbing and other practices that severely damaged local communities. Although the Commission proposal states that only UN-compliant credits will be accepted, we believe their inclusion is an opening to water down the 2040 climate target as such. The EU has a responsibility to help third countries to lower their emissions, but its own climate targets must be met through domestic action.
”Today’s Commission proposal is weakened by loopholes that risk undermining its credibility. Scientists are clear: Europe must achieve at least 90–95% domestic emissions cuts to stay within planetary limits. Instead, the Commission opens the door to international offsets and carbon removals that shift responsibility elsewhere. With the climate clock ticking, young people expect real action. The European Parliament and Council must step up and close the backdoors in this proposal.
Agata MeysnerCo-Founder of Generation Climate Europe
”It’s disappointing to see loopholes in today’s Commission proposal for the 2040 climate target, particularly the inclusion of international offsets that risk weakening its credibility. Nevertheless, we welcome the fact that the Commission has upheld the target level of 90% emissions reductions, in line with scientific guidance. Now, the real work begins: it is high time to shift focus to implementation. The Clean Industrial Deal and its supporting packages must deliver on this ambition. With over half of the global emissions linked to material consumption, an ambitious Circular Economy Act, centered on the absolute reduction of resource use, will be essential to actually meet the target and secure a livable future for young people and future generations.
Chloë CauchiBoard Member of the European Youth Forum
”The Commission’s 2040 climate target is a signal that the EU is slowly moving towards climate action.
Enrico BostersChairman of Youth and Environment Europe
However, for young people, this must be followed by concrete steps. A 90% emissions reduction shows progress, but to truly make a difference for our future, the EU must commit to reaching full decarbonisation by 2040 and prioritise real domestic action. Relying on international carbon credits risks offloading responsibility and undermining trust.
This is a decisive decade: we call on EU leaders to close the loopholes and deliver a climate plan that aligns with science, equity, and the demands of a generation that cannot afford to settle for half-measures.
We now call on all policymakers to keep climate ambition high and approve the amendment without further delays. Europe is the fastest-warming continent, and the effects of the climate crisis become more evident every year. That is why young Europeans need the EU to remain at the forefront of climate action and act swiftly to prevent its worst effects on our continent and the world.
