The Federal Environment Agency has quantified the follow-up costs of CO₂ emissions and underscored their significance for the economy and society. The estimates vary depending on how the interests of current and future generations are weighted.

26. February 2026

Frachtschiffe auf dem Rhein, vor der Kulisse des Kraftwerk Huckingen, Gaskraftwerk der HKM.

According to the German Environment Agency (UBA), German emissions alone caused economic damage in excess of €647 billion in 2024. (IMAGO / Jochen Tack)

Last updated: 26. February 2026