An end to EU green illusions
EU industry and politicians are pushing back against the bloc’s green agenda. Meanwhile, Brussels’ transatlantic trade deal with Washington could consolidate US energy dominance
The European Commission proposed an amendment to the EU Climate Law on 2 July, setting a legally binding target to cut net greenhouse gas emissions by 90% by 2040, compared with 1990 levels. The draft law includes limited flexibility—allowing up to 3% of the target to be met through international carbon credits and permanent carbon removals—acknowledging both technological constraints and economic realities. The proposal is now under review by the European Parliament and Council, with the aim of formalising the EU’s updated nationally determined contribution (NDC) ahead of COP30 in November. However, on 8 July, the far-right Patriots for Europe (PfE) group unexpectedly secured the rapporteur
Also in this section
9 January 2026
A shift in perspective is needed on the carbon challenge, the success of which will determine the speed and extent of emissions cuts and how industries adapt to the new environment
2 January 2026
This year may be a defining one for carbon capture, utilisation and storage in the US, despite the institutional uncertainty
23 December 2025
Legislative reform in Germany sets the stage for commercial carbon capture and transport at a national level, while the UK has already seen financial close on major CCS clusters
15 December 2025
Net zero is not the problem for the UK’s power system. The real issue is with an outdated market design in desperate need of modernisation
