Climate protection is an assignment for society as a whole. And the Paris Climate Protection Accords can work, if they are implemented logically and consequently. However: every individual can and must contribute to the success of this century-long task. This is the central message of this year‘s DBU Summer Academy “Climate Protection in Urban Environments in the Year One After Paris”. This is consistent with the newest proposals from the EU Commission of 20 July 2016, that draw a blueprint according to which, by 2030, a total 38 percent reduction of greenhouse gases as compared to the 2005 level would be achieved.
In his introductory remarks to the summer Academy, DBU General Secretary Dr. Heinrich Bottermann initially addressed the concept of the Anthropocene. This is based, according to Bottermann, on the idea that humanity has become a shaping force for the planet Earth in actual geological terms. And from this debate, the realization has emerged that mankind must bring an end to the Fossil Fuel Age. The Paris Climate Protection Accords of 2015 represent an important milestone on the path to achieving this goal. They mark the starting line for a massive global transformation process, with which Germany has already begun. The goal of global greenhouse gas neutrality in the second half of this century which is formulated in the agreements means that by 2050, Germany must largely renounce the use of fossil fuels.
Concrete steps for the implementation of innovations are particularly necessary in urban environments, said Bottermann in further statements during the Summer Academy. The attainment of the internationally signed climate protection goals is a task for society as a whole, he said, for which every individual must accept responsibility. Bottermann asserted: “If we really tackle this head-on, then the Paris agreements will work. The DBU will do its part.”
