German government to postpone announcement of climate strategies

Germanys Environment Minister, Carsten Schneider, has announced plans to delay the governments climate action programme until 2026, citing recent developments in Brussels as a key reason for the postponement. According to the Environment Ministry, there is no immediate threat of a warning from the European Commission this year, allowing the government more time to prepare its updated plan.

The new climate protection programme will be presented by March 2026, in line with German legal requirements, stated Jochen Flasbarth, Secretary of State for the Environment. EU-wide targets for 2025 have been largely met, which means Germany will not need to implement additional measures this year.

The climate action programme outlines how Germany intends to achieve its national climate objectives, with contributions expected from all governmental departments. In recent years, areas such as transport and building sectors have fallen behind in meeting climate targets. Minister Schneider had previously indicated that the programme would be ready by the end of this year.

German law requires that any new government submit a climate action programme within 12 months of taking office. Since the current parliament convened on March 25, the deadline for submission is set for the end of March 2026. The Environment Ministry has indicated that the extra time will be used to develop a thorough and well-founded plan, incorporating scientific input and coordination across all relevant ministries.

Germany aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 65% by 2030 relative to 1990 levels, though experts warn that this target is unlikely to be fully achieved. By 2045, the country aims to reach climate neutrality, balancing emissions with absorption. EU regulations require Germany to cut emissions by half by 2030 compared with 2005 levels.

Author: Lucas Grant