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Monday, Jan 19, 2026

Navigating the Climate Policy Debate: A Scholar's Critical Perspective

Economist Joachim Weimann challenges Germany's climate goals, advocating for a pragmatic energy strategy.
In a stringent critique of Germany's climate and energy policy, Joachim Weimann, an economics professor at the Otto von Guericke University in Magdeburg, portrays the nation's current climate goals as a burden rather than a solution.

Speaking to the 'Magdeburger Volksstimme', Weimann argues that key initiatives, such as the EU's proposed ban on combustion engines by 2035, are fundamentally flawed and unlikely to succeed.

Weimann's critique centers on what he perceives as a lack of transparency and accountability in the German government's approach, highlighting an inability to quantify both the costs and the climatic impact of the energy transition.

'We are essentially flying blind,' asserts Weimann, pointing out that the financial resources allocated towards the energy transition could be more effectively deployed in other essential sectors such as healthcare, public transport, education, and infrastructure.

The economist advocates for a reassessment of Germany's energy strategy, suggesting that a revival of nuclear power could be both technically feasible and economically advantageous.

He emphasizes the need for deploying renewable energy sources selectively, based on their economic viability, rather than broad sweeping mandates.

Weimann warns that the fundamental pillars of Germany's success—a stable political system, sound public finances, and a robust industrial base—are at risk.

His critique injects a note of caution into the ongoing discourse on climate policy, urging policymakers to undertake a more balanced and pragmatic approach in ensuring the nation's transition to a sustainable future.
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