EU confirms 90 percent emissions cut by 2040, with some concessions

Coal-fired power stations, such as this one pictured in Gelsenkirchen, Germany, stand at the heart of the European Union's climate debate – as Brussels unveils a landmark 2040 target to slash emissions by 90 percent, while allowing new flexibilities to appease reluctant member states. ASSOCIATED PRESS - Martin Meissner

The European Union has unveiled its 2040 climate target, combining bold emissions cuts with controversial concessions to win over divided member states.

In a landmark move towards climate neutrality, the European Commission on Wednesday formally announced its long-awaited 2040 emissions-reduction target – specifically a 90 percent cut in greenhouse gas emissions from 1990 levels.