The EU should not rely on international credits to achieve its 2040 climate target. A domestic reduction of 90% in net emissions by 2040 already sits at the lower end of the target range recommended by the ESABCC, and is not in line with the EU’s historical responsibility and potential to address climate change.

As global warming continues to advance at alarming rates, the EU cannot relax its climate action. This would not only mean imposing the burden of reversing global temperature rises unfairly on future generations and vulnerable countries, but also would represent a direct threat to EU industrial competitiveness and the green transition, while inflicting potential damage on the EU’s international reputation.

The post-2030 climate architecture must be made up of policies that can lead the EU to reduce net emissions by 90% domestically, before finally achieving climate neutrality and net-negativity by mid-century at the latest. The EU and its member states must plan ahead and remain accountable towards these objectives. Any reliance on international credits towards the 2040 target must be appropriately justified, used as a last resort, kept minimal, respect strict quality criteria, and be informed by a thorough assessment of its environmental, social and economic impacts.

The EU and its member states have the potential to do much more. Responsible policymakers must act urgently.