EU ministers are closing in on a deal for the bloc’s 2040 climate target, with a proposed ‘brake clause’ offering flexibility if Europe’s forests fail to absorb enough carbon. The “brake clause” could allow the European Union soften its 2040 climate target in future years – a move aimed at giving countries breathing room if Europe’s forests fail to soak up enough carbon dioxide to meet the goal. According to a draft proposal, EU countries are considering allowing an adjustment to the target if forest and land-use activities – which play a vital role in absorbing emissions – fall short. The idea is to build in some flexibility, without derailing the bloc’s overall climate ambitions. The EU’s environment ministers are expected to meet on 4 November in a bid to finalise the new 2040 target – in time for EC President Ursula von der Leyen to take a fresh commitment to the Cop30 climate summit on 6 November.