"Assessing the achievement of the 2030 climate targets solely based on the initiatives of the Member States is too short-sighted. Even in Germany, despite ambitious climate policy initiatives, we are currently only mathematically on track due to the weak economy and a noticeable decline in industrial production - at the expense of growth and prosperity. This is demonstrated by the current report from the Expert Council on Climate Issues. 

A study by the German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DIHK) together with the Association of Municipal Corporations (VKU) from autumn 2024 comes to a different conclusion than the EU Commission: According to current emission forecasts of the EU Member States, the 2030 target will be missed. However, even if it is achieved, the EU Commission's intended target for 2040 of a 90 per cent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions is realistically unattainable. For this, the CO2 reduction path would need to become significantly steeper - and this would not be possible without dramatic economic setbacks. 

Instead of discussing theoretical goals, politics should create an environment where companies can transform their production cost-efficiently and economically viable. Only by simultaneously focusing on climate protection and the economy can we preserve our prosperity. Companies are not lacking in commitment and innovative concepts for their future energy supply. However, they also need more freedom from the EU Commission, continuous technological openness, and fewer bureaucracy. The latter ties up urgently needed capacities in businesses for the practical implementation of the energy transition. Specifically, the requirements of the EU Green Deal need to be drastically reduced. Market-based approaches should take precedence over petty state regulations."