2040 climate target: a necessary course for Europe

On August 27, 2025, Impact France and the Union Française de l'Électricité (UFE) are calling for the adoption of an ambitious European climate target for 2040. This objective must not only promote growth and innovation, but also be based on a clear, pragmatic framework that guarantees the competitiveness of European businesses.

A strong signal for Europe and the international scene

The European Commission is proposing a 90% reduction in net greenhouse gas emissions by 2040. This commitment, aligned with the Paris Agreement, would be a decisive step for Europe and a strong message on the eve of COP30 in Belém. The European Union, spearheaded by France, has the opportunity to reaffirm its climate leadership and consolidate its international credibility.

An industrial and economic opportunity

The energy transition is not just an ecological imperative, it's also a lever for growth. In France, the momentum is already visible: almost one in two factories opening by 2024 is directly related to decarbonization, in sectors such as batteries and heat pumps. This green reindustrialization contributes toemployment, energy sovereignty and the orientation of investment towards the technologies of the future.Conditions for successTo transform this ambition into an industrial and social success, several levers are needed:

• Affirm the central role of low-carbon electricity and networks in the transition away from fossil fuels.
• Adapting the border carbon adjustment mechanism (MACF) to preserve European competitiveness.
• Ensure a fair distribution of efforts between Member States and between sectors.
• Include a review clause at 2030, to adjust the trajectory in line with competitiveness and actual investment.
• Preserve natural carbon sinks (forests, oceans, etc.).
• Accelerate decarbonization through the electrification of transport, buildings and industry.

Maintaining a responsible ambition

A well-calibrated 2040 target is an economic asset, a credible response to the climate emergency and a lever of influence for Europe. It would give companies the visibility they need to invest, while confirming the European Union's responsibility and determination in the fight against climate change.

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