Scientists, managers, and politicians have jointly called for a significant increase in the CO2 price to limit climate change. According to a study by the RWI Leibniz Institute for Economic Research, the CO2 price of 25 euros per tonne introduced in Germany from January 1, 2021, significantly reduces emissions. The price increase for petrol and diesel saves as many kilometers as the complete shutdown of 360,000 cars. Members of the National Academy of Sciences Leopoldina and the Council for Sustainable Development (RNE) have now spoken out together for a significant increase in the CO2 tax. The scientists told Chancellor Angela Merkel (CDU) today that this step is necessary to limit climate change.
The 48-page statement, signed by 29 authors, including scientists, managers, and former politicians, states that “humanity’s actions are destabilizing the Earth system in a way that threatens the existence and opportunities of current and future generations, as well as the diversity of life on Earth.” A systemic solution approach is demanded, which should comprehensively address the global climate crisis. The goal is to achieve this through 14 core messages that together form the framework for solving the climate crisis. The focus is on international trade, and the authors also demand a binding legal framework for all members of the European Union (EU) as part of the Green Deal.
The authors explain that this can be achieved through measures that encourage climate-friendly behavior among citizens in Germany. The study suggests allowing as much market as possible and using as much regulation as necessary. The authors specifically demand a much faster increase in the price of petrol. The current CO2 price of 25 euros per tonne is set to gradually increase to 55 euros per tonne by 2025, according to the plans of the Grand Coalition. However, the authors of the statement believe that this is too slow and support the Green Party’s proposal to increase the price by 2023. It is important that all measures are designed to be “socially balanced.” The authors, therefore, call for compensation for households with low incomes to enable comprehensive climate protection without increasing social inequality. This could be achieved through an equal repayment of the revenues from the CO2 price to the residents.
