#72 KlimaGoodNews: Civil society as a driving force of climate policy
The past few weeks have hardly been marked by climate action. In the new coalition agreement between the CDU/CSU and SPD, climate protection plays a clearly subordinate role. While the coalition still officially commits to the goal of climate neutrality by 2045, concrete and effective steps toward that goal appear to be missing. Instead, we see an expansion of natural gas extraction, a softening of the Building Energy Act, more subsidies for commuter allowances and agricultural diesel – and flying is even getting cheaper. Climate bonus? Nowhere to be seen. For many, this agreement sends the wrong signals – especially in light of the most urgent challenge of our time.
Precisely when political momentum is lacking, the role of an active civil society becomes all the more important. NGOs, organizations, initiatives, scientists, and many dedicated individuals are making a vital contribution: They develop well-founded solutions, raise awareness, shape public discourse, and initiate real change. Their efforts are crucial – for climate protection, social justice, and a vibrant democracy.
That’s why this edition of KlimaGoodNews focuses on inspiring examples, bold projects, and uplifting news that show: Change is possible. And it begins with each of us.
Enjoy reading 💚
Climate protests make an impact – often more than expected
New studies suggest that climate protests can influence not only public opinion but also elections and political decisions. An analysis of 50 studies by the Yale Program on Climate Change Communication found that even controversial forms of protest often have a positive impact on public perception.
A study from Germany showed that in regions where climate protests took place, the Green Party performed better in subsequent elections. This indicates that civic engagement can influence election outcomes. A look at the U.S. reveals a similar pattern: after the first Earth Day in 1970, air quality in regions with low protest participation was significantly worse even 20 years later compared to areas with more engagement.
Moreover, radical forms of protest can give momentum to more moderate groups – as seen in the case of “Just Stop Oil”: after the group blocked roads, support for “Friends of the Earth” increased in the UK.
While growing protest often leads to state repression, this can, in many cases, spark new waves of support. Studies from authoritarian contexts show that public resistance can increase the chances of democratic structures surviving.
Climate protest is therefore more than mere symbolism – it can be a powerful tool for shaping societal change.
Kate Yoder
Researchers advocate for ambitious climate action
Just before the first session of the new Bundestag, around 14,000 scientists from across Germany issued a clear appeal to politicians: Climate protection must finally become a top priority!
The appeal originated from the “Scientists for Future” group in Bayreuth and is supported by researchers from a wide range of disciplines, including the Alfred Wegener Institute, Charité, and the German Institute for Economic Research. The scientists emphasize that the climate crisis and biodiversity loss are among the greatest challenges of our time – and deserve far more political attention.
With clear demands, they outline how we can take effective action: expanding renewable energies, promoting green technologies, and ensuring a socially just energy transition are key priorities. Relying solely on future technologies like e-fuels or nuclear fusion, they warn, will not be enough to meet climate targets.
Voices from the scientific community are growing louder – and they offer hope. Climate researcher Julia Pongratz emphasizes: “We have no alternative but to actively shape our world.” Climate protection, she says, is not a luxury – it is a prerequisite for a livable future.
Helene Köck
🎊 Earthly Delights
German Environmental Aid takes action against greenwashing
The German Environmental Aid (DUH) has filed lawsuits against five companies over misleading environmental claims. The organization is calling for genuine climate and environmental protection, as well as transparent communication.
As more consumers pay attention to eco-friendly products, many companies promote supposedly sustainable offerings – often without solid proof. The DUH refers to this as greenwashing: embellished representations that make products appear more environmentally friendly than they really are.
The lawsuits target Coty, Deichmann, L’Oréal, Tchibo, and Toom. These companies are accused of promoting environmental benefits of their products without sufficient evidence – including sunscreen labeled “ocean-friendly,” clothing, shoes, and laminate flooring marketed as “sustainable” or “good for the environment.”
DUH managing director Jürgen Resch warns that vague statements make sustainable purchasing decisions more difficult. Since December 2024, the DUH has issued warnings to around 20 companies. Some, including members of the Bauhaus Group and Poco, have pledged to make their advertising more transparent. Legal action can be taken in the event of violations.
The DUH has announced that it will continue to legally review future violations and may initiate further proceedings.
DER SPIEGEL
💯 Number of the Week
June 14, 2025 – Day of Climate Democracy
Since 2023, there has been a Day of Climate Democracy – an initiative launched by civil society organizations such as GermanZero, Together for Future, and the Citizens' Climate Lobby. Its goal is to strengthen direct dialogue between citizens and politicians.
On June 14, 2025, the motto returns: “Hello new Bundestag, we need to talk – about the climate!” In the largest digital climate dialogue of the year, around 1,000 citizens will speak directly with members of the newly elected Bundestag.
This year’s central question is: “What kind of climate future can we create together?” The new coalition agreement remains vague when it comes to climate protection. There is also uncertainty about how the proposed €500 billion special fund will be used. That’s why more than 40 organizations are calling for open dialogue. Through all-day, moderated video conferences, people can pose their questions directly to politicians – constructively, openly, and democratically.
It’s a powerful sign that climate-related topics must remain a priority – not only among citizens, but also in political discussions. Anyone can sign up on the official website and take part in the day-long video conferences, ask their own climate-related questions, or listen live to the discussions.
💪 Challenge of the Week
Create impact together: Become an NGO supporter!
Our democracy thrives on civic engagement – and NGOs are essential to it. They advocate for environmental and climate protection, save lives in the Mediterranean, expose corruption, defend fundamental rights, and help ensure political promises are kept.
But this very engagement is increasingly under pressure – from political attacks, financial shortfalls, or structural barriers. Now more than ever, NGOs need our support. Without adequate funding, many cannot continue their vital work.
That’s why this week’s challenge is:
🔍 Choose a nonprofit organization that aligns with your values – whether it's focused on climate protection, human rights, or social cohesion.
🙏 Donate an amount of your choice – one-time or recurring, €2, €5, or more. Small donations add up when many people contribute.
💬 Or share the organization with your network, for example on social media – visibility is also a form of support.
Look out for trusted seals like the DZI Donation Seal, which stands for transparency and responsible use of funds. Here are a few good starting points for researching NGOs:
With your support, civic engagement can remain visible and effective. It doesn’t have to be much – the main thing is that we act.
Thank you for reading KlimaGoodNews #72 💚
We’re already looking forward to the next edition – filled with positive news for a more sustainable future together!