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https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2025/nov/02/germans-challenging-fight-to-go-green-climate-net-zero>
"For decades, Germany has forged a reputation as an environmental powerhouse: a
sustainable world leader in recycling and renewables, whose citizens care
deeply about protecting the planet. But in many ways, that popular green tale
is being exposed as fable.
The decision to turn off nuclear reactors before closing coal plants has
sullied the country’s climate credentials among clean energy advocates. The
diligent recycling culture has lost its shine, as separate waste bins have
sprung up across Europe and public faith in recycling has taken a hit.
Even Germany’s once-punctual trains and expertly engineered vehicles have
become cause for embarrassment. Railways have long been neglected in the
car-centric country, which is one of the few in the world without a general
speed limit on motorways, while the prized auto industry has been overtaken by
Chinese and US competitors in the race to electric vehicles.
“Germany benefited from a time when environmentalism was happening through the
way you’d change lightbulbs, buy tote bags and organic food, and maybe invest
in a local wind park,” said Luisa Neubauer, a climate activist from Fridays for
Future. “If you ignore emissions, we did great.”
Now, Europe’s biggest polluter has been presented with an unwelcome opportunity
to rebuild its green reputation. As the US under Donald Trump has upended
climate agreements, slashed funding to countries battered by violent weather
and bullied its allies into buying more of its fossil fuels, Germany is seen as
a pivotal force in prodding governments toward a safer future."
Cheers,
*** Xanni ***
--
mailto:xanni@xanadu.net Andrew Pam
http://xanadu.com.au/ Chief Scientist, Xanadu
https://glasswings.com.au/ Partner, Glass Wings
https://sericyb.com.au/ Manager, Serious Cybernetics
