Ahead of the European Council meeting on 23 October, more than 2178 scientists from across Europe have signed an open letter urging heads of state and government to back a science-based 2040 climate target of at least 90–95% domestic greenhouse gas reductions compared to 1990 levels.
In their open letter “Climate Neutrality Is Europe’s Greatest Economic Opportunity,” the undersigned warn that Europe’s competitiveness, prosperity and credibility depend on the choices made in the coming months.
“The data could not be clearer: delaying action will cost lives, livelihoods and Europe’s competitiveness,” the scientists say. “An ambitious 2040 target is not only necessary to meet the Paris Agreement but also is the foundation for Europe’s prosperity, energy security and independence.”
The letter highlights that global warming is accelerating faster than previously expected, already bringing record heatwaves and costly floods across Europe. The scientists warn that the costs of inaction, from lives lost to billions in damage, already outweigh the investments
required for the transition, estimated at around 1.5 % of EU GDP annually. At the same time, they emphasize that climate action represents Europe’s greatest economic opportunity. Decarbonisation could save hundreds of billions in fossil fuel imports, create millions of new jobs, cut household energy bills by up to two-thirds, and strengthen Europe’s independence from autocratic regimes.
They point out that the global race for clean technologies is well underway. Countries around the world are investing heavily in renewable energy, battery production and green industries. Without a stable and ambitious EU policy framework, Europe risks falling behind. The scientists call on EU leaders to reaffirm their commitment to the Paris Agreement and to demonstrate leadership ahead of COP30 in Belém, where Europe’s level of ambition will show whether it intends to remain a global climate frontrunner. “Europe’s future prosperity, safety and well-being depend on the decisions you make today,” the scientists conclude. “Climate neutrality is not a burden. It is Europe’s greatest economic opportunity.”
Link to Letter: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17399531
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