In Germany record heat meets climate action fatigue
For the German government climate action does not seem to be a priority — despite record temperatures, heat-related deaths and drought. Why don't more people take to the streets in protest?
Germany is experiencing record heat, with 12,500 heat-related deaths so far in 2026 and record temperatures across Western Europe. Lars Werner, a climate activist from the Last Generation group, claims the government's inaction is irrational. Despite the crisis, the federal government has not convened a heat summit. The government is promoting short-term fixes, such as dredging the Rhine and lifting the Sunday driving ban for trucks, instead of implementing comprehensive climate protection policies.
The Fridays for Future Germany movement, which replaced the previous Last Generation protesters, is now the main critic of political decision-makers on climate policy. A recent study found that 80% of Germans are worried about climate change, but few take to the streets. Hate speech against climate activists has increased on social media.
Sebastian Haunss, a political science researcher, notes that while more people are installing solar power, they also take environmentally damaging vacations. Political actors like the far-right Alternative for Germany Party oppose climate protection regulations. German Environment Minister Carsten Schneider wants to amend the constitution to make heat protection a joint responsibility, but the center-right bloc is skeptical due to legal concerns.
Written by urgent.news from DW English (Top Stories)'s reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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