The European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR) Group warned that the revision of the EU Climate Law, introducing a binding 2040 emissions-reduction target, risks undermining Europe’s competitiveness, industrial base and social stability.

For the ECR Group, climate policy must remain realistic, economically sustainable and socially balanced.

The revised regulation establishes a legally binding objective to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 90 per cent by 2040. The ECR Group has consistently expressed strong reservations regarding the introduction of new binding targets, stressing that existing 2030 commitments are already imposing significant costs on industry, households and Member States, particularly in energy-intensive sectors and in regions with limited access to affordable alternatives.

Anna Zalewska MEP, ECR Shadow Rapporteur for the file, said speaking after the vote:

“The EU has chosen to double down on binding targets without first addressing affordability, competitiveness and technological feasibility. A 90 per cent reduction target by 2040 risks accelerating de-industrialisation, increasing energy prices and weakening Europe’s economic and strategic resilience.”

The ECR Group cautioned that climate policy must be grounded in practical realities and supported by viable technologies, secure energy supply and economic sustainability. Policies that ignore these factors risk damaging growth, jobs and Europe’s global competitiveness while failing to secure broad public support.

Ms Zalewska added:

“Climate policy must be realistic, socially fair and economically sustainable. Protecting the environment cannot come at the expense of Europe’s industry, competitiveness and people’s livelihoods.”

While the revised framework sets the direction for the coming decades, the ECR Group reiterated its call for a pragmatic and balanced climate approach that delivers environmental progress without sacrificing growth, social cohesion and Europe’s strategic strength.

“Here, Brussels has lost touch with reality. Only rational, fact-based decisions will allow Europe to remain a strong, competitive and energy-secure community”, Ms Zalewska concluded