Overview
- In a November 19 interview in Osnabrück, the 79-year-old said his view on climate policy has "radically" changed.
- He called Germany’s 2023 halt to electric-car subsidies a "catastrophe" and welcomed the federal plan to reintroduce a purchase premium in 2026.
- He labeled his longtime emphasis on road building a major mistake and urged stronger investment in rail and local public transport.
- He criticized CDU and CSU leadership for giving climate protection too little priority.
- He cited personal steps such as installing a heat pump, using public transport more often, and cutting back on meat without full abstinence.