Germany Meets 2024 Climate Target Despite Persistent Sectoral Shortfalls

While national emissions fell to a historic low, the transport and building sectors missed their reduction goals, raising concerns for future compliance.

Germany reduced its greenhouse gas emissions by 3.4% in 2024, reaching 649 million tons, surpassing its national target by 44 million tons.
The transport sector emitted 143 million tons of CO₂, exceeding its target by 18 million tons due to slow electric vehicle adoption and other challenges.
Building sector emissions fell by 2.3% to 100 million tons but still exceeded the allowable limit by 5 million tons, with reductions attributed largely to mild weather rather than structural changes.
The industrial sector remained on track for its 2030 goals, although emissions in steel and chemical industries rose, offset by declines in the cement industry.
Failure to meet EU-mandated sectoral targets by 2030 could lead to significant financial penalties, underscoring the need for accelerated climate action in lagging areas.

Westdeutsche Allgemeine Zeitung

junge Welt

Sächsische Zeitung