#70 KlimaGoodNews: Future on New Paths
Germany has achieved its climate target for 2024: greenhouse gas emissions fell by 3.4%, reaching 649 million tonnes, clearly below the legally permitted limit of 693.4 million tonnes. The main reason was the decline in fossil energy use in electricity generation.
However, the transport sector remains a problem area in Germany's climate policy: with 143.1 million tonnes of CO₂ – around 22% of total emissions – it exceeded the sector target by over 18 million tonnes. Emissions only decreased slightly, and the sluggish expansion of electric mobility is causing concern among experts.
New political leeway could now trigger the necessary change: as part of the recently negotiated – and not without controversy – comprehensive debt and investment package, a new special fund of 100 billion euros has been created, which will flow entirely into the Climate and Transformation Fund. It has been enshrined in the constitution that these funds may only be used for additional measures to achieve climate neutrality by 2045. This success was made possible largely thanks to the Green Party at the final stage.
This opens up new opportunities for the transport sector – for example, investments in charging infrastructure, climate-friendly mobility options, or measures to ensure more socially equitable access to e-mobility. Whether these potentials are actually realized will largely depend on the political priorities and specific use of funds by the next federal government.
Against this backdrop, this edition of our KlimaGoodNews is dedicated to hopeful trends and progress in the field of mobility and climate protection. Enjoy reading 💚
Combustion Engine Ban 2035? – Why It Could Benefit the German Auto Industry
The plan to gradually end the sale of new petrol and diesel vehicles by 2035 is sparking much debate. However, rather than harming the German automotive industry, this shift could actually give it a decisive long-term advantage, as a new strategy paper suggests. The insights in the paper are based on market analyses and extensive interviews with industry insiders. Analysts build their case on two key arguments: “One must keep up with the times” and “the competition from China isn’t sleeping.”
The automotive industry in China is in a similar phase of development as in Germany. There, stable and long-term political frameworks are the driving force behind the success of electric mobility. In Germany, clear regulatory signals such as the combustion engine phase-out could likewise help provide investment security for companies and encourage them to fully commit to new, emission-free technologies.
The shift from combustion engines to electric mobility is inevitable anyway, many experts say. That’s why government subsidies for e-mobility and the combustion engine ban are important and necessary impulses from policymakers. They offer a strategic opportunity that the German automotive industry must seize in order to remain internationally competitive.
Anna Manz
On-demand buses: A modern mobility solution for rural areas
More and more public transport companies in Germany are turning to on-demand buses to close gaps in public transit. These eco-friendly shuttles mainly operate in rural areas or during off-peak hours, where regular bus lines are not available. One example is “Dalli” in Bad Saarow: the small buses, which can be booked by phone or online, take passengers almost to their doorstep and offer a climate-friendly alternative to private cars.
In the service area of the VBB (Berlin-Brandenburg Transport Association), around a thousand trips are completed weekly. On-demand buses are also increasingly used in northeastern Bavaria as well as in the extended metropolitan regions of Hamburg and Frankfurt. However, financing remains a challenge: a large share of the required funding comes from government subsidies. In some regions, a shortage of drivers is also a concern, although this varies significantly by location.
The outlook is more positive for “Dalli” in Bad Saarow. Here, the climate-friendly on-demand bus is financially and operationally secure. It's a great example of how flexible mobility solutions can not only improve rural transport access but also actively contribute to more climate-friendly transportation.
Hannes Koch
🎊 Earthly Delights
Paris Makes Space for Pedestrians
The mobility transition in Paris is progressing. The city is becoming greener and less dependent on cars! In a recent public vote, two-thirds of participating Parisians supported converting 500 streets into pedestrian zones. Although voter turnout was low at just 5%, the result clearly highlights the direction Paris is taking in terms of future-oriented mobility.
Paris, under the leadership of socialist mayor Anne Hidalgo, is already seen as a pioneer of green mobility. In the past, the city introduced a speed limit of 30 km/h in the city center. The latest vote is another step toward creating a more environmentally friendly and green urban environment.
However, the plan has also faced criticism. Opponents argue that residents will have to take detours to reach their homes by car, and many parking spaces will be eliminated entirely. The infrastructure would need to be adapted, and new parking spaces built on the outskirts. Still, for residents, the initiative primarily means an increase in quality of life. Airborne particulate pollution and noise levels in central Paris are extremely high and would be significantly reduced through more greenery.
💯 Zahl der Woche
924,000 – People in Hamburg Choose the Deutschlandticket Over the Car
In September 2024, around 924,000 Hamburg residents used the Deutschlandticket – more people than there were registered cars in the city. With approximately 813,000 cars, the number of vehicles was significantly lower.
This development is no coincidence: since September 2023, the Hamburg Senate has actively promoted the shift to public transport. School students receive the Deutschlandticket for free, and for people with low incomes – such as basic pension recipients – it costs just €22.50 per month. When the regular ticket price rose to €58 at the beginning of 2024, the subsidy was adjusted accordingly.
The trend toward a mobility transition is also visible in the long term: the number of cars per 1,000 residents dropped from 439 in 2022 to 430 in 2024. This trend can be partly attributed to Hamburg’s political measures.
A clear sign that Hamburg is actively shaping the shift toward sustainable mobility.
Marie Gogoll
💪 Challenge der Woche
Safe on Two Wheels 🚲
If you can, now’s the perfect time to hop back on your bike – and while you're at it, you’re doing something good for the climate, your health, and your overall quality of life.
Cycling reduces CO₂ emissions, cuts down on noise, and saves space – especially in cities. Plus, being active outdoors boosts your circulation and lifts your mood.
Maybe your bike is just waking up from its winter break? Then this week’s challenge is just right for you:
Get your bike ready and check if it’s road-safe.
That way, you’ll start the new cycling season safely and with peace of mind. Here’s a quick checklist to help you:
- Test the brakes: Do they grip well without squeaking?
- Pump up the tires: Is the pressure right? Any cracks, debris, or signs of wear?
- Check the lights: Do front and rear lights work? Are the plugs secure? Are all reflectors in place and clean?
- Clean & oil the chain: Wipe off dirt, lightly lubricate, remove excess oil.
- Inspect handlebar, saddle & frame: Is everything tight? Any cracks or looseness? Is the saddle height adjusted properly?
You can take care of many small things yourself – but if you’re unsure, your trusted bike shop is there to help. Best to go soon before the spring rush begins.
Enjoy tinkering, cleaning, and testing – and have a safe, sunny start to the cycling season! 🚴♀️☀️
Thank you for reading KlimaGoodNews #70 💚
We’re already looking forward to the next edition filled with positive news for a more sustainable future together!