ICLEI joins call of the Coalition for Higher Ambition (HAC) Calls on EU Leaders to Commit to At Least 90% Emissions Reduction by 2040
Brussels, 13 March 2025, Ahead of the upcoming European Council (EUCO) and Environment Council (ENV) meetings, the Coalition for Higher Ambition is urging EU leaders to support a net domestic emissions reduction target of at least 90% by 2040 and to submit an ambitious Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC).

Since the European Commission released its Communication on the 2040 climate target in February 2024, the impacts of the climate crisis have continued to escalate worldwide. Yet, the necessary Climate Law amendment has yet to be scheduled, resulting in a delay of the EU NDC to be submitted under the Paris Agreement. The Coalition for Higher Ambition (a broad alliance of businesses, local and regional authorities and civil society groups), is calling on the EU and Member States to fully meet its
obligations.

The recent Clean Industrial Deal and the Competitiveness Compass announcements reaffirm the EU’s commitment to  decarbonisation, recognising that climate ambition is a driver of economic competitiveness as well as of energy security.  Businesses, investors, and local and regional authorities are already leading the way in this regard, investing in clean industries, decarbonisation, and resilience measures. Within this framework, ICLEI and coalition members believe that a clear and ambitious 2040 climate target will provide increased certainty for businesses and financial markets, de-risk investments, and strengthen Europe’s economic leadership.

ICLEI Europe's Regional Director Wolfgang Teubner says: “The 2040 climate target will serve as a crucial milestone on our journey to climate neutrality by 2050, providing cities with the clear direction and long-term framework they need to continue leading this transformation. As we work together towards achieving the ambitious decarbonisation and competitiveness goals of the EU, the importance of establishing a robust 2040 climate target cannot be overstated. European cities are at the forefront of the fight against climate change, implementing innovative solutions that not only contribute to reducing emissions but also enhance the quality of life for their residents.”

ICLEI urges EU leaders to swiftly agree on ambitious and science-aligned post-2030 targets to reflect:
● At least 90% net domestic emissions reduction by 2040 (compared to 1990 levels), in
line with the recommendations of the European Scientific Advisory Board on Climate
Change (ESABCC).
● An ambitious NDC that reflects the EU’s responsibility as a historic emitter, including
a 2035 target no lower than at least 72.5% net domestic emissions reductions.

Read the full statement and letter to EU leaders here and learn more about ICLEI's position on the EU competitveness agenda and its landmark key initiatives such as the "Clean Industrial Deal" here.