N-VA opposes unrealistic EU climate targets

The European climate ministers have voiced their support for the new 2040 climate strategy, setting the EU on a path toward a 90% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2040. Belgium abstained from the vote, citing concerns about the economic feasibility and the impact on industrial Competitiveness The extent to which companies in one country can compete with similar companies in another country. A law came into force in Belgium in 1996 to monitor competitiveness. This stipulates that Belgian salaries may not evolve faster than the average of those in the three neighbouring countries. The Central Economic Council (CEC) performs an annual measurement to see if the objectives have been obtained. competitiveness .

The European Parliament also debated the ambitious target this week. In the Committee on Industry, Research and Energy (ITRE), MEP Kris Van Dijck voted against the proposal.

“Just talk to people in our industrial sector—it’s clear this 2040 target is completely unfeasible,” Van Dijck said. “Unless we intend to dismantle our entire industrial base.”

Beware of creating an industrial graveyard

While the N-VA supports the goal of climate neutrality by 2050, the party stresses that today’s technological capabilities and investment conditions fall short of what would be needed to slash emissions by 90% as early as 2040.

According to Van Dijck, the pressure on both companies and households is becoming excessive: “Jobs are disappearing, companies are moving abroad. Is that really how we plan to meet our climate goals? By ending up with an industrial graveyard?”

That’s why the N-VA is calling for a realistic climate policy—one that:

• accelerates innovation and technological progress,
• safeguards competitiveness,
• keeps strategic production and jobs in Europe,
• and doesn’t financially suffocate families or businesses.

Flemish industry has been leading the way

Van Dijck points out that Flemish companies have long invested in clean and future-oriented production methods, all while competing against countries that aren’t held to such strict standards. The EU accounts for barely 6% of global emissions, yet imposes the toughest climate rules on itself.

“When opportunities arise to give our industry a much-needed boost, we shouldn’t be creating new obstacles,” Van Dijck concluded.
“This is not a path toward sustainability—it’s a road to deindustrialisation.”