Climate policy in focus: New study shows ways out of the ban trap!

Climate policy in focus: New study shows ways out of the ban trap!

Even today, December 31, 2025, the question of climate policy remains a central issue in Germany. A current study sheds light on how effective measures can be designed to take social acceptance into account. According to a report by MDR knowledge The results of a survey show that people react more positively to approaches that are perceived as effective, promoting freedom and preserving privacy. These insights could be the key to successful implementation of climate action.

A notable aspect of the investigation is the decrease in resistance to restrictions on short-haul flights in Germany. This could, among other things, be related to the extensive availability of a European train network. In many debates, however, climate policy is often perceived as a policy of bans, especially with regard to the controversial “combustion ban”. Interestingly, research by climate economist Moritz Schwarz finds that such bans are used less frequently in climate policy than many assume.

The path to CO2 reduction

How Federal Environment Agency reported, Germany's climate goals require a combination of different energy and climate policy strategies. A new study commissioned by the Federal Environment Agency and carried out by institutions such as the Öko-Institut highlights that prices for energy and electricity as well as government-regulated price components are crucial to driving energy savings and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. These measures can have a significant impact, particularly in the areas of buildings, transport and industry.

However, the study also shows that the negative effects of high energy prices on low-income households need to be urgently addressed. One example given is heat pumps, which can be competitive with traditional natural gas heaters with flexible electricity tariffs. The total annual costs of a heat pump with a flexible tariff are around 5,090 euros, while a gas condensing boiler is around 5,224 euros. This illustrates how important it is to pay attention not only to the acquisition costs, but also to the entire operating costs.

A comprehensive approach to climate protection

In order to accelerate the market ramp-up of heat pumps, the study recommends, among other things, a reduction in acquisition costs and income-based funding. In addition, the state should act proactively to compensate for unfavorable price developments, for example through reduced VAT rates on electricity with flexible tariffs. Effective climate protection requires much more than just pricing carbon dioxide; Various price levers must be used and state components of energy prices must be reformed.

In summary, it can be said that the federal government is obliged to expand the necessary infrastructure and provide targeted aid for low-income households. This is the only way to develop a comprehensive approach that not only makes Germany's climate goals achievable, but also avoids social hardship. The challenges are great, but with a bold step in the right direction, Germany could be on a greener path.