EU open to increasing 2030 carbon target, says top climate negotiator

European commission appears to soften stance on whether it will strengthen its 40% carbon cut, after outcry over attempt to rule it out

Europe's chief climate negotiator has said he is open to increasing the EU's carbon target for 2030, in a backdown by the European commission.

Last week, the commission ruled out any increase in the bloc's target of cutting emissions by 40% by 2030 on 1990 levels, sparking an outcry from several countries and green groups.