What is the EU's new carbon emissions reduction target?

The EU has agreed to slash its carbon emissions by 90% by 2040, down from its previous goal.

Which EU countries voted against the new climate agreement?

Hungary, Slovakia and Poland voted against the EU's new climate agreement.

Why are environmentalists criticizing the EU's deal?

Environmentalists are criticizing the deal because it allows the EU to buy carbon credits from less-developed countries, effectively outsourcing the bloc's emissions reduction obligations.

Home / Environment / EU Agrees to Outsource Emissions Cuts to Developing Nations, Sparking Criticism

EU Agrees to Outsource Emissions Cuts to Developing Nations, Sparking Criticism

5 Nov

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Summary

EU to slash carbon emissions by 90% by 2040, down from previous goal
Hungary, Slovakia and Poland vote against the agreement
Environmentalists criticize deal for allowing EU to buy carbon credits abroad

EU Agrees to Outsource Emissions Cuts to Developing Nations, Sparking Criticism

In a move that has drawn criticism from environmentalists, the European Union has agreed to slash its carbon emissions by 90% by 2040, a significant weakening of the bloc's previous climate goals. The agreement, reached after an overnight debate among EU climate ministers, was opposed by Hungary, Slovakia and Poland, who voted against it.

The compromise deal includes several concessions, such as allowing member states to purchase carbon credits internationally to meet their emissions targets and giving the EU the ability to reassess its climate policy based on economic performance. The agreement also postpones the implementation of a new carbon trading plan covering transport and heating, a key demand from Poland.