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
7 November 2025
The Russian company’s German assets are under Berlin’s management and are exempt from sanctions, for now, but a permanent solution still needs to be found
6 November 2025
The Russian firm made a significant attempt to expand overseas over the past two decades but is now divesting its global operations
6 November 2025
After years of pursuing ideologically driven climate leadership, Western powers are now stepping back under mounting political pressure and rising populist opposition—prompting concern essential climate action could be sidelined
5 November 2025
Construction of the pipeline in Afghanistan is making tangible progress, but extending it into Pakistan and India remains unrealistic for political reasons
