Germany’s greenhouse gas emissions decreased by about 3.4% in 2024, a remarkable feat that maintains the nation on course to achieve its ambitious 2030 climate goals based on data from the Federal Environment Agency. Carbon dioxide emissions were lowered to 649 million tons surpassing the previously estimated level of 656 million tons and below the 2024 legal benchmark of 693.4 million tons.
This decrease is part of Germany’s overall attempt to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 65% by 2030 compared to 1990 levels with the ultimate aim of becoming carbon neutral by 2045. Climate Action and Economy Minister Robert Habeck was optimistic that Germany would achieve its national climate goals, saying “Looking ahead to 2030, I remain confident that we will achieve our national climate targets.”
The 2024 drop was primarily fueled by a decrease in fossil fuel consumption with the country’s electricity being contributed by renewable energy to a large extent, currently totaling about 54%. Drops in the transport sector and building sectors were weaker with both recording single digit drops of 1.4% and 2.3%, respectively, against their legal targets.
While Germany is heading in the right direction, there are still challenges in some areas particularly in transport and construction, which are instrumental in achieving the EU’s Effort Sharing Regulation targets for 2021-2030. Nevertheless, the 2024 reduction in emissions is an important milestone to achieve Germany’s future climate objectives.
