Green Germany
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(© picture-alliance/dpa)
Whether participating in UN climate conferences or spearheading the establishment of IRENA, Germany is in the forefront of international politics to protect the environment. At home, its citizens and businesses possess a heightened awareness of their responsibilities to the planet and act accordingly. With climate change now tangible and commodity prices on the rise, governments are increasingly struggling to secure the energy supplies needed to keep their economies running and at the same time tackle the problem of climate change. The only effective response to these global challenges is national commitment and international cooperation.
Germany, a leader in environmental sciences, technology and industry takes its global role very seriously. Not only the government, but society overall is committed to working towards improved energy efficiency, environmental protection and renewable resources.
Careful management of the world's natural support systems and resources is vital for humanity's very survival. As climate change gathers pace, people are becoming increasingly aware of the finite nature of the world's resources. With prices for oil and gas as well as food rising almost daily, everyone realizes dramatic changes lie ahead.
Climate, Energy and the Environment
For the foreseeable future traditional sources of energy such as oil and gas will remain indispensable to meet global demand. Given their finite nature and adverse impact on the environment, there is now an urgent and growing need to consider how we can enhance energy efficiency and make greater use of alternative, especially renewable sources of energy.
Alternative energies and energy efficiency
Efforts to preserve biological diversity involve the whole world. Numerous measures are being taken both at the international and local level, with Germany playing a leading role. From activism by local nature organizations, to action in the global arena, biodiversity loss is a concern affecting not only the hearts and minds of people, but impacts their daily lives as well as corporate balance sheets!
Preserving biodiversity
What is now a consensus view in Germany had its origins in the protests mounted by various groups against environmental pollution and especially radiation hazards associated with nuclear power stations. Today, German citizens are some of the most active advocates for the environment.
Environmental awareness in Germany
Germany has a long history of participation and leadership in the international arena regarding climate protection. Whether it be in the commitment to the Kyoto Protocol, proposing climate policy at G8 Summits, hosting United Nations conventions and meetings on the environment, or being the driving force behind the formation of an international agency on renewable energy, the policies and actions of the federal government reflect the heightened sense of responsibility towards climate protection.
Climate protection
