A debate within the German Christian Democratic Union (CDU) regarding the country’s commitment to climate neutrality by 2045 has intensified, with differing viewpoints emerging from within the party. Andreas Jung, Deputy Chairman of the CDU parliamentary group, has publicly defended the existing target, asserting that climate protection remains a crucial priority given the accelerating effects of climate change. He emphasized the relatively recent commitment to the 2045 goal, enshrined in both the party’s electoral program and the current coalition agreement.
Jung stressed the need for “planning and investment security with stable and reliable framework conditions” alongside “pragmatic approaches to implementation” in light of the current economic climate. He highlighted the importance of connecting climate protection with economic strength and social equity to ensure a viable path forward.
The discussion follows earlier comments from fellow CDU politician Tilman Kuban, who has questioned the feasibility of reaching climate neutrality by 2045. Kuban suggested that achieving 80% reduction by that date would be a significant accomplishment, advocating for a reassessment of the remaining 20% and the related costs at that point. He voiced concerns that overly aggressive climate policies could risk “deindustrialization” leading to job losses and weakening European solidarity. He added that similar doubts about climate targets, particularly beyond 2050, are being expressed by colleagues in France, Poland and other Eastern European nations.
The existing commitment stems, in part, from a 2021 ruling by the Federal Constitutional Court, which derived a legal obligation to achieve climate neutrality from Article 20a of the Basic Law. The court referenced Germany’s CO2 budget, aligned with the Paris Climate Agreement, which cannot be exceeded. Any potential CO2 emissions after 2045 would require a remaining portion of this budget. This necessitates substantial CO2 reductions in the years leading up to that date. The European Court of Human Rights’ recent ruling against Switzerland further reinforced a budget-based approach to climate action.