Material Prosperity and Climate Protection

Abstract

The study analyses which key trends in the economy and society influence the material foundations of prosperity in Germany. It also shows how the key trends represent both opportunities and risks for climate protection. Among other things, it focuses on the growing climate impact costs for private households, the increasing pressure to invest in the expansion of resilient infrastructure and the readjustment of industrial policy in geopolitically uncertain times. In the spirit of strategic foresight, the trends are analysed and exaggerated in mini-scenarios up to 2040 in order to derive the need for action. The publication addresses decision-makers in politics and administration as well as experts in environmental and climate protection.