Press | Umweltbundesamt

Greenhouse gas emissions in Germany rose again slightly in 2013, by 1.2 per cent compared to the previous year. These are the preliminary results of first estimates by the Federal Environment Agency (UBA). A total of nearly 951 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalents were emitted in 2013, almost 12 million tonnes more than in 2012. CO2 emissions account for most of the increase, with a rise o... read more

The Federal Environment Agency is recommending a further reduction in the use of disposable plastic carrier bags and an expansion of the fee on shopping bags which is already in place in the retail food trade. This will help to use resources efficiently, avoid waste and to reduce the input of waste to the oceans and seas. read more

Nearly half of all appeals by recognised environmental associations are successful, which places their "success rate" far above the average of successful legal proceedings under administrative law in Germany. It has proven to be an effective instrument to ensure compliance with environmental regulations during the planning and authorisation process of industrial and infrastructure projects. read more

Bioenergy, and biofuels in particular, is the subject of much controversy. Does material use of biomass to make building materials, bioplastics or lubricants pose a better alternative? A research project done on behalf of the Federal Environment Agency (UBA) has completed a first-time, in-depth study on the issue, and the results show that the material use of renewable resources before they are us... read more

Nitrogen dioxide and particulates in particular still had an impact on air quality and on human health in Germany in 2013, say preliminary measurements from the Länder and the Federal Environment Agency (UBA). The high levels of nitrogen dioxide pollution measured in previous years remained unchanged. More than half of the stations in urban areas near traffic measured exceedances of the allowable... read more

Four common power adaptors in non-stop operation can cost up to 51 euros in electricity per year. The average household of two can save 250 euros through more economical use of energy. A new brochure by the Federal Environment Agency about saving energy in the home explains how to do it without giving up any comfort. read more

There is a debate in progress about the requirements of a national noise protection plan for Germany. The Federal Environment Agency (UBA) believes that such a national plan must help to greatly reduce the public’s exposure to aviation noise. Aviation noise, and that of night flying in particular, is associated with significant human health risks. read more

Germany has far exceeded its target set out by the Kyoto Protocol for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. However, the developments recorded over the past two years have given Federal Environment Minister Barbara Hendricks cause for concern. Hendricks stated: "We must adopt more ambitious climate targets and reverse the negative trend of the last two years." read more