Agenda highlights
CO2 emission standards for cars and vans
The Council will take stock of the progress of discussions on the amendment of the regulation on the CO2 emission standards for cars and vans. The amendment was proposed by the Commission on 16 December 2025 as part of the automotive package to support the sector’s transition to clean mobility.
The proposal suggests lowering the 2035 emission reduction target from 100% to 90%, with the remaining 10% of emissions to be compensated for through use of sustainable renewable fuels and low-carbon steel produced in the EU. It also includes incentives for manufacturers selling small electric vehicles made in the EU.
Nature, business and competitiveness
Ministers will exchange views on the role of nature services for competitiveness, and on how to manage the risk of biodiversity loss for a transition to a nature-based economy.
Way forward: water resilience strategy and REACH regulation
The Council will discuss the implementation of the water resilience strategy one year after its adoption and the way forward. Ministers will also consider next steps for the regulation on the registration, evaluation, authorisation and restriction of chemicals (REACH).
International climate negotiations
The Cyprus presidency will inform ministers on actions to strengthen the EU’s negotiating position in international climate meetings, ahead of the 31st UN climate change conference (COP31) to take place in November 2026.
Climate resilience
Over lunch, ministers will hold an informal debate on climate resilience in Europe.
