Climate.Table Feature Climate protection program

German Climate Action Program: Emissions must fall sharply by 2040

With its new Climate Action Program, the German government is, for the first time, setting sector-specific targets for the period from 2031 to 2040. These emission ceilings would require significantly steeper reductions by 2040 than currently projected – at a time when climate ambition is under political pressure.

12. February 2026
Hüttenwerke Krupp-Mannesmann, HKM in Duisburg-Hüttenheim, 2 Hochöfen, Kühltürme des Gaskraftwerks, Rhein bei Krefeld-Uerdingen, Frachtschiff, NRW, Deutschland, HKM Hüttenwerk
Major changes lie ahead: A steel plant, a gas-fired power station and an inland cargo vessel near Duisburg, Germany. (IMAGO / Jochen Tack)

Sign up now and continue reading immediately

No credit card details required. No automatic renewal.

Sie haben bereits das Table.Briefing Abonnement?

Anmelden und weiterlesen

Last updated: 12. February 2026