EU climate goals lack clear deadlines ahead of key global summit

The European Union will push to limit global warming to 1.5°C at the upcoming COP29 climate summit but faces criticism for vague timelines on phasing out fossil fuels and funding the transition.

Robert Hodgson reports for Euronews.

In short:

• EU ministers agreed to advocate for keeping the 1.5°C target but did not set firm phase-out dates for coal, gas, or oil.
• Climate activists warn that without specific deadlines and financial support for developing nations, the EU's climate rhetoric remains insufficient.
• The EU is set to encourage broader contributions to climate finance at the summit, aiming to involve more developed nations.

Key quote:

“The EU's rhetoric on phasing out fossil fuels is welcome, but empty without matching financial support for developing countries.”

— Chiara Martinelli, director of CAN Europe.

Why this matters:

Without concrete steps to phase out fossil fuels, achieving the 1.5°C target could remain elusive. Inadequate financial commitments further threaten climate progress, especially for developing nations already facing severe climate impacts.