Key information:

• Poland opposes the European Commission's proposal to set a reduction target of 90% by 2040.
• For many countries, the current draft legislation in this area is very difficult to accept, and many of the provisions are too vague, with a lack of implementation instruments, detailed financial calculations and support mechanisms.

• Poland is forming an alliance of countries that support a practical approach to energy transition. The Polish government believes that the European Union's climate policy should be based on real conditions, not political declarations.
• An informal meeting of the EU Environment Council (ENVI) took place on 10–11 July 2025 in Aalborg (Denmark).
• Poland was represented by the Deputy Minister of Climate and Environment, Krzysztof Bolesta.

 

We stand for realism and responsibility. Overly ambitious targets, disconnected from the possibility of achieving them, are a real risk to the competitiveness of the European economy, social cohesion and investment stability. We are talking about changes that affect not only climate policy, but also industry, agriculture, finance and energy security. We need time and space for real negotiations

– said Krzysztof Bolesta, Deputy Minister of Climate and Environment.

European climate policy post-2030

During the first informal Environment Council chaired by Denmark, environment and climate ministers focused on issues related to the upcoming international climate negotiations in Brazil and the setting of a European climate policy goal for beyond 2030.

As stressed by ministers during the meeting, it is necessary to continue joint efforts to reduce emissions as part of the European Climate Law revision. Furthermore, the interim target for 2040 must take into account differences between countries, such as the level of industrialisation, energy mix, technology development and financing. The new target should be based on an analysis of its impact on countries and economic sectors.

The debate about the new 2040 target is crucial not only for European climate policy, but also for the EU's competitiveness and security. It must also address the social dimension of the transition. Without public support, climate targets will not be achievable

– said Krzysztof Bolesta, Deputy Minister of Climate and Environment.

Poland drew attention to the overly tight work schedule for the revision of the European Climate Law. This is one of the most important and complex pieces of legislation of this decade, requiring careful consideration and broad dialogue between countries.

During an informal meeting of the EU Environment Council, many delegations, including Poland, called on the Danish Presidency to consider calls for a transparent negotiation process and to ensure sufficient time for in-depth discussions and the development of solutions that will have lasting political and social legitimacy.

Preparations for the COP and discussion on the Global Plastics Treaty

In addition, during the informal Council, ministers talked about the EU's position for the November UNFCCC conference in Belém. Discussion focused on ambitious emission reduction targets, global climate adaptation indicators and the mobilisation of private funds. As agreed, Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) will be crucial for assessing progress in limiting temperature rise.

The ministers also discussed the current results of the 8th Environment Action Programme and summarised the state of negotiations on the Global Plastics Treaty. During the debate on EU environmental policy priorities, ministers highlighted, among other things, the importance of the circular economy, which will reduce pressure on natural resources and strengthen the competitiveness of the European economy.

The meeting took place on 10–11 July 2025 in Aalborg, Denmark. Poland was represented by the Deputy Minister of Climate and Environment, Krzysztof Bolesta.