A majority of Germans are already experiencing the effects of climate change and are concerned about the potential increase in health problems. According to a study by the Robert Koch Institute (RKI), there were 4,500 heat-related deaths in Germany in 2022. Additionally, a survey conducted by the Federal Environment Agency (UBA) found that 57% of the population considers environmental and climate protection to be a very important issue. The survey also revealed that many Germans are primarily concerned about the health impacts of climate change, with 73% believing that it could cause significant harm. Furthermore, 85% of respondents reported experiencing strong or very strong effects of climate change, including heatwaves, heavy rainfall, and other extreme weather events.
The survey also highlighted the importance of adaptation and protective measures against climate change. An overwhelming majority of respondents (90%) considered measures such as the recently adopted heat protection plan and flood protection measures to be particularly important. Additionally, nearly two-thirds of respondents believed that converting forests to mixed forests that are more resilient to drought was very important. The survey also showed that Germans see a significant need for reducing plastic waste (75%) and increasing recycling and product lifespan (72%).
While a majority of Germans support the ecological transformation of the German economy, many are concerned about the potential social impacts of this transition. Specifically, 75% of respondents expressed concerns about further social division, and 40% were worried about a decline in social status. The President of the UBA, Dirk Messner, emphasized the need for a socially responsible transition to sustainable economic practices, stating that “sustainable economic practices can become a job engine.”
In conclusion, the survey conducted by the UBA highlights the growing concern among Germans about the impacts of climate change on their health and the environment. It also underscores the importance of adaptation and protective measures against climate change, as well as the need for a socially responsible transition to sustainable economic practices.
