German Elections 2025: Impacts on Environmental Regulation and What it Means for Our Future

Just a month after Donald Trump’s inauguration, Germany has shifted to the right on several key issues, including the environment. Jed Thomas

The German election has marked a new conservative era led by Friedrich Merz, moving away from the previous government’s climate-focused policies.

As coalition talks continue, it’s clear that environmental policies may take a back seat to economic and security matters.

This election result illustrates the decline of the Greens and a larger backlash against progressive environmental policies across Europe.

So, what does this mean for important environmental issues?

In the 2025 election, Merz’s Christian Democratic Union (CDU) received 28.5% of the vote and will likely form a coalition with the Social Democratic Party (SPD), which garnered 16.4%. The Greens, who had a significant impact on climate policy previously, saw their support drop to 11.6%.

This power shift suggests Germany might reconsider its ambitious decarbonization efforts, which were championed by Chancellor Olaf Scholz. Although both the CDU and SPD claim to support Germany’s goal of climate neutrality by 2045, Merz has voiced concerns about EU green regulations, prioritizing economic growth instead.

Nuclear Energy Issues

One of the biggest potential changes could be Germany’s approach to nuclear energy. Merz has shown willingness to revisit the nuclear discussion, aligning Germany with nuclear-advocating countries like France. However, a full return to nuclear is unlikely due to logistical challenges.

Meanwhile, Germany’s plans to expand wind and solar energy might slow down as the new government aims to lessen business regulations, which could weaken environmental protections in the energy sector. Merz also plans to repeal the Building Energy Law, which was designed to promote cleaner heating systems, citing economic reasons.

CDU’s Climate Change Position

During the campaign, Merz emphasized economic recovery over climate issues. The CDU’s cooperation with the European People’s Party (EPP) has already challenged stricter EU climate measures, and this trend is likely to persist under his leadership. They are expected to support delaying new corporate sustainability reporting rules, aiming to simplify regulations for businesses.

Under this new government, Germany is not expected to hasten the phase-out of coal, sticking to the 2038 plan that the Greens wanted to advance.

Shifts in Agricultural Regulations

In agriculture, the new administration may undo some environmental policies from the previous coalition. The CDU is likely to push back against certain EU regulations and may restore tax breaks for diesel in farming. While this move may please farmers, it raises concerns among environmental advocates.

Changes may also occur in Germany’s transportation policies. The old government had embraced the EU’s prohibition on new combustion-engine vehicles by 2035, but Merz appears less enthusiastic, potentially derailing efforts to phase out fossil-fuel vehicles.

Impact on Global Climate Action

Germany doesn’t only influence its own policies; it plays a key role in the broader EU environmental landscape. A shift away from aggressive climate measures could hinder other countries from pushing for ambitious regulations.

Even so, economic factors may still promote some green investments. Many German industries are already moving towards sustainability, and businesses might continue to adopt cleaner technologies, even without strong government support.

In conclusion, Friedrich Merz’s election signifies a notable rightward shift in German politics, with environmental policies potentially sidelined. Although Germany remains committed to its long-term climate goals, the urgency and scope of its efforts may be reduced.

As coalition agreements unfold, more details on these policy shifts will emerge. Nonetheless, the upcoming years could present significant challenges for climate advocates in Germany.