Waning Interest in Climate Protection Among Germans
Climate action recedes as pressing issues take center stage
Take note: The care for environmental and climate protection is losing traction among the German population. A survey conducted by the German Environment Agency (UBA) found that 46% of respondents still view environmental and climate protection as "highly important," although this number has been steadily declining over the years. In 2022, it was at 57%, and in 2020, it reached a staggering 65%.
The UBA attributed this shift in perception to a series of crises that have diverted people's attention away from environmental and climate challenges. Issues such as health, education, economic growth, public safety, and war threats are now considered more pressing by the majority of respondents. Furthermore, skepticism regarding the ability to address climate change and its consequences is on the rise, based on the UBA's findings.
Key Insight: A third of the population doubts Germany's ability to cope with the effects of climate change, marking the lowest confidence since 2002. Support for the goal of limiting global warming to below two degrees Celsius is also dwindling, with only 57% considering it crucial, a decrease of 5 percentage points compared to 2022.
On the brighter side, specific environmental issues such as tackling plastic pollution, preventing species extinction, managing nuclear waste, and securing forests and moors have gained increased importance compared to two years ago.
Important Note: Many people are already feeling the impacts of climate change, as heatwaves continue to pose health challenges. Approximately two-thirds of respondents feel the burden of these extreme heatwaves. Moreover, a quarter of the population finds no adequate protection against heat in their immediate environment. A remarkable 85% express the urgent need for improved heat protection measures.
For reference, the Environmental Awareness Study, conducted every two years since 1996, collects data on the attitudes and behaviors of citizens in Germany concerning the environment. The 2025 study surveyed 2,552 citizens aged 18 and above during autumn 2024.
Additional Information: The decline in the emphasis on climate protection among the German population could stem from a rise in economic confidence since late 2024 into 2025, leading to increased consumer spending. Economic optimism may divert focus away from long-term climate protection efforts [4]. This shift could hinder Germany's progress in achieving its climate goals and addressing the security risks and sustainability challenges posed by climate change [3][4][5].
In light of the decreasing emphasis on climate protection, there is a growing need for policy makers to reevaluate and reinvigorate the community policy and employment policy to galvanize public support for environmental and climate protection initiatives. Moreover, understanding the importance of science and environmental-science, particularly in terms of the impacts of climate change on health and wellness, will play a crucial role in reshaping the public's perspective and priority towards tackling climate-change and improving the environment.
