Climate protection or economics? Germans are annoyed about the end of combustion engines!

Climate protection or economics? Germans are annoyed about the end of combustion engines!

Today, a new survey shows that climate protection is still a hot topic in Germany. In addition, opinions are very divided, depending on age and personal connection to the topic. The article by MDR reports that 66 percent of those surveyed would like to see increased support from the federal government in international climate negotiations. But what about German engagement at the EU level? Here, 53 percent of those surveyed support more proactive action.

But support for a more active climate policy in Germany seems to be dwindling: only 45 percent would like one. However, an overwhelming majority of 51 percent are in favor of the EU goal of climate neutrality by 2050. Only 46 percent are in favor of the federal government's more ambitious goal of being climate neutral as early as 2045. This skepticism could also be related to the fact that many citizens are concerned about the competitiveness of the German economy. They have concerns that strict climate targets could drive companies away.

Social division through climate protection measures?

A big issue is the potential end of combustion engines, which relates to the EU guidelines of no longer allowing cars with CO₂ emissions from 2035. Almost two out of three respondents show a lack of understanding of this decision. What is particularly explosive is that concerns about financial burdens on households and the economy are clearly pronounced. Strictly speaking, almost half of the survey participants reject political measures such as CO₂ pricing for gasoline and diesel, clear requirements for heating systems and the general ban on combustion vehicles.

An interesting point is the generational differences. While only 21 percent of 50 to 64-year-olds support the end of combustion engines, the number of those under 30 is around twice as high - with 49 percent in favor. A 25-year-old respondent even highlighted the difference between Germany and China in the promotion of electric cars, which further fueled the debate.

The challenges of climate policy

According to an analysis by bpb climate change cannot be tackled by one actor or sector alone; comprehensive governance is required. German climate protection is part of international agreements, and the EU has binding climate targets, embedded in the European Climate Law. The specified goals include a reduction in net greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and the desired climate neutrality by 2050.

The federal government adopted several climate protection programs, but experts often rate them as inadequate. The Climate Protection Plan 2050 and the Climate Protection Program 2030 already set ambitious goals, but the implementation leaves a lot to be desired. In 2021, greenhouse gas emissions rose surprisingly by 4.5 percent compared to the previous year, highlighting the need for improvements.

The new adaptation process of the Climate Protection Act (KSG) is now intended to ensure that the set goals are achieved. The most recent adjustments for 2023, such as the introduction of the Deutschland Ticket, are just small steps in a large undertaking. And yet it remains essential to include different stakeholders in climate policy and to design the measures in such a way that they find broad acceptance.

Overall, it appears that the topic of climate protection remains highly polarized. While some of the population is pushing for faster and more stringent implementation, others are concerned about possible financial consequences and the competitiveness of the German economy. The key here is to find the right balance.