Churches demand from the federal government: Immediate climate protection necessary!

Churches demand from the federal government: Immediate climate protection necessary!

On November 27, 2025, 62 Protestant and Catholic organizations came together to make an urgent appeal to the federal government. This initiative, in which the Evangelical Church in Germany (EKD) and the Archdiocese of Freiburg are involved, calls for an effective climate protection program. In a press release, the church actors emphasize the need for reliable political framework conditions that are crucial for the preservation of creation. The appeal is coordinated under the umbrella of the Climate Alliance Germany and reflects the urgent demand of many regional churches and dioceses that have already taken significant steps towards greater sustainability.

A central concern of the appeal is consistent adherence to the European compromise for phasing out the internal combustion engine. In addition, a strong expansion of emissions trading is called for in order to achieve climate goals more effectively. The signatories also demand a comprehensive climate protection program that aims to move away more quickly from climate-damaging oil and gas. The initiators believe that investments in sustainable solutions must be significantly increased, particularly in the areas of mobility and living.

Reliable framework conditions required

“Reliable political developments are essential to ensure progress in climate policy,” explains Regional Bishop Kühnbaum-Schmidt. It calls on politicians not only to create framework conditions, but also to draw up a strong and comprehensive plan for climate protection that clearly defines the move away from fossil fuels. Dr. Bettina Siegmund, Chairwoman of the Environment and Construction Committee, also emphasizes the urgency of promoting the ability of politicians to act for effective climate protection.

Christoph Neubrand, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Freiburg, emphasizes that a trusting relationship between church organizations and politics is crucial for the success of climate protection measures. He sees climate protection not only as an ecological but also as a social concern that should promote peace and justice. This perspective could serve as a public impetus to create increased awareness of the critical issues of climate change outside the church community.

Commitment at local level

What is particularly noteworthy is the fact that many regional churches, dioceses and parishes are already actively investing in renewable energies and using sustainable products. The broad support and the measures already taken show that the commitment to climate protection is deeply anchored in the church community. This is also reflected in the call to take action with greater investments in climate protection in order to achieve the goal of a climate-neutral future.

Given ongoing global warming and the global climate crisis, such initiatives are not only desirable but necessary. The gathering of so many religious organizations committed to sustainable solutions could be a positive boost to the political agenda in the coming months. Such a call not only strengthens confidence in the ability of politicians, but also sends a strong signal to society that climate protection is a common goal.

Find out more about the appeal and its aims evangelisch.de, ekhn.de and landeskirche-hannovers.de.