Germany’s commitment to achieving climate neutrality by 2045 remains firmly in place, according to Environment Minister Carsten Schneider. While acknowledging recent comments from CDU leader Friedrich Merz suggesting a potential re-evaluation of Germany’s adherence to international climate agreements, Schneider emphasized that these remarks are being viewed as a potentially problematic approach to motivating public engagement in climate action.
Schneider stated the comments, which alluded to a possible adjustment of Germany’s commitments, require careful consideration regarding their impact on public perception and willingness to embrace environmental policies.
Despite this, the government maintains a clear strategic focus: leveraging the export of environmentally friendly technologies as a driver for economic growth.
Regarding the ongoing energy transition, Schneider underscored the crucial need to prioritize renewable energy sources. He asserted that renewables represent the cleanest and most cost-effective energy available in Germany and are indispensable for achieving the nation’s 2030 climate targets. He noted that Germany has already largely restructured its power supply and subsequently, renewable energy sources must be given “absolute priority”. Schneider pledged to actively champion and enforce this prioritization.