German government to delay presentation of climate plans

German Environment Minister Carsten Schneider plans to postpone the government's climate action programme until 2026, his ministry has told dpa, justifying the delay with developments in Brussels.

"Having learned that we no longer need to fear a warning from the European Commission this year, the government will present the new climate protection programme by March 2026," in accordance with German law, said Secretary of State for the Environment Jochen Flasbarth.

EU-wide climate goals for 2025 have been achieved on balance, meaning Germany will not be called upon to agree further measures this year.

The climate action plan sets out how the government intends to meet its national climate targets, with all ministries contributing. In recent years, those responsible for transport and buildings have lagged behind.

Schneider had repeatedly said he would present the programme by the end of the year.

By law, a new German government must submit a climate action programme within 12 months of taking office. The current parliament held its constituent meeting on March 25, giving Schneider until the end of March 2026.

The time will be used to prepare a "sound and comprehensive programme," drawing on scientific input and involving all relevant ministries, according to Environment Ministry sources.

Germany aims to cut its greenhouse gas emissions by 65% by 2030, compared with 1990 levels. Experts believe the country will likely miss this goal.

By 2045, Germany aims to be climate neutral, emitting no more greenhouse gases than can be reabsorbed. EU targets stipulate that Germany must halve its emissions by 2030, compared to the benchmark year of 2005 however.

"Germany has already come a long way on climate action," said a ministry spokesman, noting that emissions had fallen by around 50% since 1990.

The aim now was to stay on track not only for the 2030 target, but also by introducing additional measures to hit climate neutrality by 2045.

"This affects all key sectors," and their corresponding ministries, the spokesman added.