Contrary to what was previously thought, German forests have not been a source of CO₂ – even in years of drought. The soil stored as much carbon as was released by the trees. However, this surprising new finding will have little impact on LULUCF data, climate-related complaints and the government’s Climate Action Program.
By Bernhard Pötter
The German government is planning an amendment to the Environmental Appeals Act, with the aim of placing greater restrictions on environmental associations as plaintiffs. Environmental organizations are warning that their ability to legally enforce measures to protect the environment would be restricted.
By Alexandra Endres
In a party conference motion, the CDU’s association for small and medium-sized businesses the its employee advocacy association have questioned existing climate targets. Social and climate experts from the party executive will now work with the authors on a joint paper.
By Bernhard Pötter
The German government has defended its climate policy before the Federal Constitutional Court in several expert opinions, which have been obtained by Table.Briefings, pointing to future adaptation options and the responsibility of other levels such as the European Union.
By Alexandra Endres
The US has long vacillated between enthusiasm and rejection of climate action. But under the second Trump administration, the system has reached a new level. What is needed now is close cooperation with US climate activists and their partners worldwide.
By Jennifer Morgan
The German Renewable Energy Federation warns of a slowdown in renewable energy expansion in Germany. However, the Ministry for Economic Affairs has signaled that it will provide limited support to the industry and rejects calls to accelerate action.
By Malte Kreutzfeldt
China invested almost twice as much in the New Silk Road in 2025 as in the previous year. Investments and construction contracts in the oil and gas sector dominated China’s foreign investment activity.
By Nico Beckert
LNG imports from the US could account for between 75% and 80% of total EU LNG imports by 2030, warns a think tank. However, Trump’s Greenland threats are jeopardizing the energy deal with the US.
By Nico Beckert
The European Commission wants to strengthen the energy-intensive steel industry in Europe and protect it from unsafe and heavily-subsidized products from China. However, its plans for green steel fall short of recommendations.
By Manuel Berkel
