The proposed European climate law aims to complement the existing EU policy framework by setting the long-term direction for EU climate action, provide predictability for investors and businesses, and ensure transparency and accountability. It raises the ambition relative to existing measures, which are expected to reduce GHG emissions by only 60 % by 2050, compared to 1990 levels. The Commission will present an impact-assessed climate target plan by September 2020, to increase the 2030 target from 40 % to at least 50 % and towards 55 % (compared with 1990 levels) in a responsible way. By June 2021, the Commission will propose revisions of key EU climate and energy legislation in line with the revised 2030 target. After that, every five years the Commission will assess collective progress towards climate neutrality and on adaptation, the consistency of relevant EU and Member State measures with the climate neutrality objective, and the adequacy of relevant EU and national measures for progressing on climate adaption.  

The effects of the EU climate law go beyond EU borders. Climate action is at the core of the EU's foreign policy and green diplomacy agenda and the adoption of the EU climate law reinforces the international role of the EU. Through green diplomacy, the EU aims to build political will and trust to advance global climate action, strengthen the effectiveness of development cooperation, and establish mutually beneficial relationships with partner countries. By increasing and binding legally its climate ambition the EU is strengthening its role as leader of the green transition and enhancing its credibility among partner countries and internationally.