The critique of climate protection progress in Germany remains prominent, with economist Prof. Clemens Fuest pointing out that it's not just a matter of finance and willpower, but also an issue of speed and bureaucracy. Louis Klamroth, the ARD talk show host, touched on this topic, asking if Germany would miss its climate targets.
The guests shared varying opinions on the matter. Julia Verlinden, a Green Party leader, emphasized the need for increased speed and investments in climate protection measures. On the other hand, former Environment and Economics Minister Peter Altmaier voiced concerns that the government was leaving people worried about the financial impact of new heating systems on their own.
A key guest on the show was Carla Hinrichs, head of the climate radical group "Last Generation." She passionately criticized the lack of action and empty promises, calling on young people to take to the streets. Weather expert Sven Plöger echoed her sentiments, expressing his concern over the delay in tackling climate change.
The discussion also involved criticisms of government decision-makers, who were perceived as unreliable and prioritizing their personal interests over climate action. The show highlighted the difficulties in moving forward with climate policies, including financial constraints and the need for global cooperation.
Enrichment Data:
Germany's journey with climate change mitigation is nuanced and faces various challenges. These challenges include:
- Insufficient Progress: The independent Council of Experts on Climate Change has repeatedly warned that Germany is not on track to meet its 2030 target[1].
- Sectoral Targets: Removing sectoral targets from the 2024 amendment to the climate law has made it harder to scrutinize progress and hold the government accountable[1].
- Emissions from Transport and Buildings: The sectors of transport and buildings have been missing their emissions goals. Policies to reduce emissions, such as the Building Energy Act and the 2035 ban on new combustion-engine car sales, are surrounded by controversy in Germany[1].
- Financial Constraints: Half of the measures in the 2023 climate action programme relied on government funding. However, the supreme court ruled that a €60bn transfer to a climate fund was unlawful, posing a challenge to future funding for climate initiatives[1].
- Renewable Energy Ambitions: Despite ambitious targets, the practicality and speed of achieving 80% renewable power by 2030 and 100% by 2035 are subjects of debate. Significant investments in solar and wind power are needed, but the transition faces various complex challenges[1][4].
- Global Context: The lack of commitment by major economies and countries like the EU and China to meet climate targets has raised concerns about global cooperation in the fight against climate change[2].
These factors emphasize the complexity and challenges in Germany's efforts to meet its climate targets, but they also offer possibilities for improvement.
