In a world increasingly affected by climate change, legal commitments are no longer optional — they are essential. The European Union has taken another significant step forward in its environmental leadership by proposing an amendment to the European Climate Law. This proposal, announced in July 2025, aims to reduce the EU’s net greenhouse gas emissions by 90% by 2040 compared to 1990 levels (European Commission). But how exactly does the EU plan to turn this ambitious goal into a reality? And why does it matter to our generation?

I believe it is vital we understand not just the “what” but also the “how” behind such transformative climate laws. Here is a quick breakdown of how the EU intends to meet its 2040 target;

To understand the 2040 target, it’s important to first look at where we are now. The EU is currently on track to meet its 2030 goal of reducing GHG emissions by 55% (relative to 1990). The proposed 2040 target builds on this momentum. At first glance, cutting emissions by 90% in just 15 years might sound drastic. But the EU’s according to the Commission’s impact assessment and advice from the European Scientific Advisory Board on Climate Change, the plan is realistic.

Here’s how they aim to do it:

• The target will be added as an amendment to the existing European Climate Law. Once adopted, it becomes legally binding.
• The EU recognises that each member state and sector faces different challenges. That’s why the proposal includes the possibility of using high-quality international carbon credits later in the 2030–2040 period and permanent carbon removals within the EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS).
• The new target will influence all areas of EU legislation post-2030, from energy and transport to agriculture and industry.
• By providing a clear long-term direction, the target gives investors and industries the confidence to shift towards sustainable technologies — avoiding wasteful spending on outdated fossil fuel systems.

With this, a 90% reduction will:

• Make Europe more resilient and less dependent on unstable global energy markets
• Strengthen EU competitiveness by encouraging innovation in clean tech
• Provide a clear signal to global partners ahead of COP30 in Brazil, where countries will submit updated climate pledges under the Paris Agreement

The EU’s 2040 climate target is not just a policy, it is a foundation for a sustainable future. And it’s being shaped through the power of law. It shows how legislation can drive real-world change, influence global behaviour, and protect future generations — us.

Trust me, things are about to get even more interesting.