When I think about the future of our economy, I don’t just see numbers on a balance sheet. I see people, communities, and the planet we all share. People, plant and profit always need to be in balance – but people and planet must always come first. That’s why I’m convinced that sustainable economic growth is only possible when paired with strong climate protection. Anything less is short-sighted and leaves us and even more so our children unprepared for the challenges ahead.
In discussions about economic growth, there’s often a frustrating tendency to pit the economy against the environment, as though the two are at odds. This false dichotomy has been perpetuated by some political parties, particularly the CDU and FDP, which has been slow to recognize that protecting the environment isn’t a burden on the economy but an opportunity to innovate, create jobs, and build resilience. Their resistance to adopting bolder climate policies has cost us precious time and brought our automotive sector to it’s knees, and it’s up to us to ensure that the mistakes of the past don’t define our future (again).
Sustainability is not a compromise, it’s an investment into the future. Transitioning to renewable energy, embracing circular economies, and prioritizing energy efficiency are not just solutions to the climate crisis but also pathways to sustainable growth. We’ve already seen how green industries can drive job creation and foster technological advancements, but to fully realize this potential, we need policies that prioritize climate action as the foundation of our economic strategy.
I also believe that strong climate protection doesn’t just benefit the economy, it benefits everyone. Cleaner air, more sustainable infrastructure, and energy independence are not abstract goals; they directly improve the quality of life for people in our communities.
But achieving this change requires leadership that understands the urgency of the climate crisis and is willing to take bold steps. Incremental changes and half-measures are simply not enough.
Despite the challenges, I remain optimistic. Across Europe, we’ve seen examples of what’s possible when governments, businesses, and communities commit to a green transition. From the rapid expansion of renewable energy to innovative approaches in sustainable agriculture, there’s a growing recognition that a greener economy is a stronger economy. The Green Party has been at the forefront of this movement, pushing for policies that reflect the scale of the challenges we face while offering solutions that benefit both people and the planet.
To anyone reading this, I want to say that your voice and your vote matter. We can’t afford to continue down a path where economic growth is pursued at the expense of the environment. Instead, we must demand leadership that prioritizes sustainability, invests in our future, and recognizes that strong climate protection is not optional—it’s essential.
Together, we can build an economy that doesn’t just grow but thrives in harmony with the planet. It’s not just about what we can achieve today but what we can leave behind for future generations. Let’s ensure that this vision becomes reality. The time for action is now.