Press release
EU ministers deal weakens EU climate ambition ahead of COP, risking breach of international law
5 November 2025
Just days before COP, EU environment ministers have decided to weaken the EU Climate Law by adding offsets - a move ClientEarth says undermines the bloc’s legal duty to deliver science-based emissions cuts.
The European Scientific Advisory Board on Climate Change had recommended a net domestic reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by 90–95% by 2040, concluding that such a target would be both feasible and equitable.
The Board had further advised against relying on international offsets, emphasizing that efforts should concentrate on domestic emission reductions. By contrast, the Ministers voted today for an emissions cut of 90% allowing for up to 5% to be met through international credits.
ClientEarth Head of Brussels Anaïs Berthier said:
“In a disappointing move for the climate just a few days before COP starts, EU environment ministers today agreed to water down the EU's climate targets.
"They voted to cut emissions domestically by 85% – lower than the level advised by scientists - weakening the EU Climate law by introducing carbon offsets and flexibilities in the implementation of the Emissions Trading System (ETS).
"As confirmed by International Courts, setting ambitious and science-based emissions reductions targets is no longer optional — it’s a legal duty. If a country’s plan falls short, courts can require it to adopt a stronger one.”
Meanwhile, ministers confirmed the EU’s 2035 Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) targets – a legal requirement under the Paris Agreement which is being tracked through the Conference of the Parties - of between 66.25% and 72.5% net emission reductions compared to 1990 levels.
ENDS
About ClientEarth
ClientEarth is a non-profit organisation that uses the law to create systemic change that protects the Earth for – and with – its inhabitants. We are tackling climate change, protecting nature and stopping pollution, with partners and citizens around the globe. We hold industry and governments to account and defend everyone’s right to a healthy world. ClientEarth teams in Europe, Asia and the USA work to shape, implement and enforce the law, to build a future for our planet in which people and nature can thrive together.