Berlin, Germany – February 16, 2025 – Germany is ramping up its efforts to fight environmental crime with a new partnership. The Environment Ministry, WWF Germany, and Interpol are teaming up to tackle the growing issue of illegal activities harming nature. With €5 million from Germany’s International Climate Initiative, this three-year project will focus on five major areas: fisheries, forestry, illegal mining, pollution, and wildlife crime.
Environmental crimes now rank as the third most profitable criminal activity worldwide. They result in billions of dollars in illegal profits every year, trailing only drug trafficking and counterfeiting. German Environment Minister Steffi Lemke stressed that stopping these crimes is essential because they worsen climate change, species loss, and pollution.
“Criminal groups hurt our environment by endangering wildlife and damaging vital ecosystems,” Lemke explained. She noted the importance of this collaboration for protecting our planet.
Interpol’s Secretary General, Valdecy Urquiza, echoed her sentiment, stating that environmental crimes have no borders. These activities endanger our future and call for urgent coordination and action.
The project aims to enhance cooperation among law enforcement bodies globally and safeguard those working to uncover these crimes. It reflects a growing recognition that environmental crime poses significant threats to biodiversity and human survival.
Climate Strike in Germany
On February 14, activists across Germany rallied for climate action. A broad coalition urged the next federal government to prioritize climate issues as the country approaches its federal election on February 23, 2025. The elections were rescheduled after a governmental crisis led to the collapse of the current coalition.
Protesters carried striking symbols, like a kangaroo adorned with climate messages, aiming to signal that climate concerns should not take a back seat to other political topics. Organizers from Fridays for Future reported over 100,000 participants at around 150 locations, emphasizing the urgency of addressing the climate crisis now.
As elections approach, there’s concern that critical climate agendas are being questioned by political parties. WWF Germany warned of the severe implications of insufficient action on climate, stressing the need for the expansion of renewable energy and substantial policy shifts toward sustainability.
The coalition for climate action included numerous organizations, all advocating for an ambitious response to climate change. Major demonstrations took place in cities like Berlin and Hamburg, signaling widespread public demand for effective climate policies.
Germany faces significant challenges in its energy transition. WWF Germany identified seven key trends that will shape the future of energy and climate efforts globally. These trends highlight the need for a swift move away from fossil fuels, increased reliance on renewables, and the integration of technology to enhance energy efficiency.
The initiative funded by Germany’s IKI supports international cooperation aimed at combating environmental crime and enhancing biodiversity protection. It reflects Germany’s commitment to playing a significant role in global climate action and environmental justice.
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