It’s Time to End Climate Nationalism

Energy expert and government advisor Franz Josef Radermacher delivers a sharp critique of German energy policy. He describes Germany as a “climate prison” that wastes vast sums of money while ignoring effective solutions – because certain actors profit from the current system

In the interview, Franz Josef Radermacher criticizes German climate policy as inefficient, overregulated, and expensive. He calls Germany a “climate prison” in which billions are spent on national measures that bring little global benefit. Instead, he advocates for an international climate policy: CO₂ emissions could be reduced much more cost-effectively in developing and emerging countries – through reforestation, CCS (carbon capture and storage), and CCU (carbon capture and utilization). These global approaches, he argues, are more effective and would also promote prosperity in poorer regions. Radermacher views Germany’s “all-electric” strategy – focused on wind and solar energy – critically, calling it costly and incomplete. He warns against degrowth and calls for the repeal of the Energy Efficiency Act. He considers the 2021 ruling by the Federal Constitutional Court a mistake, as it overburdens Germany while being globally ineffective. His appeal: cooperation instead of climate nationalism – for realistic and effective climate protection.

Due to numerous inquiries, Prof. Radermacher has also answered additional questions that arose in connection with the interview.

The original interview in Welt am Sonntag from July 6, 2025, and the additional questions and answers can be found at the links below:

• Interview in Welt am Sonntag, July 6, 2025
• Answers to additional questions