EU Climate Commissioner Hoekstra Reaffirms Commitment to 90% Emissions Cut by 2040

Wopke Hoekstra, the Dutch Commissioner for Climate and Tax, has secured approval from the European Parliament for his full term in the new EU Commission. Despite rising political challenges and a fractious climate debate, Hoekstra reaffirmed his commitment to the EU’s climate goals, notably aiming for a 90% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2040 compared to 1990 levels.

Firm Commitment to Climate Targets and Emission Reductions
Hoekstra, who took over from Frans Timmermans, faced intense questioning during a three-hour hearing by members of the European Parliament. Among the pressing topics was his pledge to maintain ambitious emissions targets. He confirmed that the EU climate law, which sets a 55% emissions reduction by 2030, would not be revised. The 90% reduction goal by 2040 remains a top priority, with Hoekstra suggesting that a proposal to amend the law would likely take more time to prepare, as it requires careful legislative steps.

Petrol and Diesel Car Phase-Out Remains on Track
Hoekstra also emphasized that the phase-out of petrol and diesel cars by 2035 is non-negotiable. Despite ongoing pressure from car manufacturers to delay or revise CO2 emission limits, Hoekstra reiterated that the EU’s climate commitments on this matter were binding and that there was a need for legal certainty. He also noted that some car companies have expressed support for the existing 2035 target, despite warnings of significant fines for non-compliance.

Expanding Role: Taxation and Aviation
In his expanded role, Hoekstra will now oversee taxation matters within the EU. A key area of focus will be the taxation of aviation fuel, which remains exempt from many of the environmental taxes levied on other forms of transport. Hoekstra indicated he was open to exploring a “coalition of the willing” among member states to address this gap, though he stressed that EU tax policy requires unanimous approval from all member states.

Global Climate Leadership and COP29
Looking ahead to COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, Hoekstra made it clear that the EU intends to play a more assertive role in climate diplomacy, urging other major emitters, including China, India, and the US, to step up their efforts to reduce emissions. With the current geopolitical climate — marked by tensions like the war in Ukraine and the uncertainty surrounding the US’s commitment to the Paris Agreement — Hoekstra acknowledged the challenges but insisted that inaction was not an option.

Climate Denial and the EU’s Position
During his hearing, Hoekstra was confronted by climate skeptic Anja Arndt from the far-right AfD party, who questioned the effectiveness of the EU’s net-zero strategy. Hoekstra responded firmly, emphasizing that the EU’s commitment to scientific consensus was non-negotiable, particularly in light of Europe’s rapid warming, which is occurring at twice the global average rate.

NGOs Demand Stronger Accountability from Member States
Despite Hoekstra’s assurances, environmental campaigners like CAN Europe voiced concerns about member states’ lack of accountability in implementing the EU’s climate and energy plans. Thirteen EU countries missed the June deadline to submit their national plans, raising alarms over the EU’s ability to meet its Paris Agreement targets. CAN Europe has lodged a formal complaint, urging the Commission to hold these countries to account.