France, Nov. 3 -- 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 so-called "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 compromise 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 envir...