The European Parliament is calling for a significantly more ambitious climate policy as the EU prepares for the upcoming COP30 summit in Brazil. In a recently adopted resolution by the environment, climate, and food safety committee, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) emphasized the need for the EU to remain a global climate leader. The resolution was backed by 57 votes in favour, 23 against, and 4 abstentions.
MEPs urged the European Council to promptly adopt the EU’s 2035 climate target and update the Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) under the Paris Agreement. They expressed concern over the delay in submitting the EU’s revised climate pledge, stressing that time is running out to limit global warming to 1.5°C.
The resolution calls for science-based climate targets for 2040, aligned with the European Climate Law, and a faster phase-out of fossil fuel subsidies and usage. It also highlights the need for strong policies to reduce emissions across key sectors, including agriculture, transport, textiles, tourism, shipping, and methane-intensive industries.
Additionally, MEPs stressed the role of the defence sector in reducing emissions and accelerating decarbonisation. They warned of the global consequences of climate change, linking it to resource shortages, food insecurity, geopolitical tensions, and increased risks in conflict zones such as Ukraine and Gaza.
The full European Parliament will vote on the resolution in its plenary session scheduled from October 20 to 23. A delegation led by Parliament Chair LÃdia Pereira will represent the EU at COP30 in Belém, Brazil, from November 10 to 21.
