A leading German economist is questioning the feasibility and strategic value of Germany’s and the European Union’s current climate neutrality goals. Markus Brunnermeier, a professor at Princeton University and recently consulted by the German government, argues in an interview with the “Handelsblatt” that a more nuanced approach to climate protection is needed.
Brunnermeier suggests that achieving a climate-neutral world hinges on Germany’s ability to innovate and develop groundbreaking technologies that make environmental protection highly efficient, inspiring global adoption. He cautions against prioritizing the elimination of the last gram of CO2 within national borders, potentially harming German industry and discouraging similar action elsewhere.
Beyond the specific climate neutrality target, the economist emphasized the need for broader governmental reforms. He noted a tendency towards resistance to change within Germany and underscored the urgency of revitalizing the nation’s competitiveness. Brunnermeier called for a compelling, positive vision to establish a resilient and future-proof business model for Germany. He believes that a “wake-up call” is necessary to address concerns regarding the long-term viability of the German economic landscape.