New projections by the German Federal Environment Agency (UBA) point to a larger climate action gap than previously assumed. Environment Minister Carsten Schneider has drawn criticism for basing the government’s Climate Action Program on last year’s figures.
By Malte Kreutzfeldt
Based on the latest projections from the Federal Environment Agency, Minister Carsten Schneider continues to believe that the 2030 climate target is achievable. However, the figures do not yet consider key plans by the new government.
By Malte Kreutzfeldt
Social welfare organizations and the Climate Alliance are calling for climate action that benefits everyone. They want to ensure that investments in renewables and climate-neutral mobility deliver tangible benefits – especially for low-income households.
By Lisa Kuner
Germany’s Environment Minister Carsten Schneider and the Federal Environment Agency remain silent on the government’s plans for the Building Modernization Act (GMG). Among other things, the way protections for renters have been designed is likely to be a key factor in the law’s impact on CO₂ emissions.
By Malte Kreutzfeldt
The German government’s Climate Action Program is due to be presented in four weeks – yet five million metric tons of CO₂ reductions are still unaccounted for, along with several billion euros in required investment. Policymakers remain divided over which sectors must deliver the most substantial emission cuts. And then there is the issue of the Building Energy Act.
By Bernhard Pötter
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.
By Bernhard Pötter
The draft of the German government’s new Climate Action Program contains a long list of measures but offers no credible path to meeting legally binding climate targets. Key issues – notably the future of the Building Energy Act (GEG) and financing – remain unresolved.
By Bernhard Pötter
Can environmental NGOs take legal action against the German government’s climate action programs, and if so, how far can courts go in imposing requirements on the federal government? These questions will be before the Federal Administrative Court on Thursday. A decision could be issued the same day.
By Alexandra Endres
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 plans to present its climate protection program in March. Business associations are calling for more protection against foreign competition and more subsidies. Environmental associations are pushing for stricter regulations in the transport sector. They warn against backsliding.
By Nico Beckert
