Resource protection now: BUND is calling for comprehensive reduction law

resource consumption on the fast lane: A call to reversal

berlin. Every year we experience it again: On August 1, the regenerative resources of the earth are used up, which are available to us for an entire year. This date, also known as the Earth Leaving Day, clearly shows how disproportionately resource consumption in industrialized countries such as Germany is. The Federal Government therefore faces an urgent need for action in order to protect the basics of our environment and economy.

The alarming numbers

At the moment, the world population is already using 1.7 earth to cover their needs, while Germany even rely on the resources of three earth. This situation not only leads to the exploitation of arable, pasture land, fishing reasons and forests, but also to an irresponsible high CO2 emissions that exceeds the ability of the forests and oceans to absorb these gases. This state is not only questionable in terms of environmental policy, but also endangers the quality of life of the following generations.

BUND demands tangible measures

The BUND for the Environment and Nature Conservation Germany (BUND) has repeatedly requested a comprehensive resource protection law. This law is intended to define clear protection goals, monitor the achievement of reduction paths and provide sanctions in the event of non -compliance. Olaf Bandt, chairman of the federal government, emphasizes the need for a fundamental reorganization of resource policy: "We need a law to significantly reduce our resource consumption."

The way to the circular economy

A central component of the solution could be in the circular economy that goes beyond recycling. A sustainable approach with a higher sufficiency - philosophy that can be less more - could help reduce resource consumption significantly. Reusable systems are an example that not only avoids waste, but also creates new jobs and reduces the dependence on imports. In order to achieve this, however, binding measures must be implemented that are currently not yet fully available.

The challenges and potentials

Despite the positive approaches in the national circulatory management strategy (NKWS), which is considered by the Federal Government, many concrete activities and responsibilities remain unclear. The federal government supports the goal of halving resource consumption, but sees a need for more ambitious targets and clear legal framework.

a call to responsible

The overlay day not only serves as a warning signal, but also as an appeal to society and the political decision -makers: the time for deeds is now. It is crucial that everyone involved, from the government to every single citizen, takes responsibility and actively work for a more sustainable future.

summary and future outlook

In addition to the development of a resource protection law, Germany must also implement the recommendations of the Council for Sustainable Development. This could help that the consumption of primary raw materials drops drastically by 2050 and that an intermediate destination of 50 percent reduction will be reached by 2030. The Federal Government has the responsibility to initiate change and take effective measures so that we do not continue to live on the debts of the earth.

for further information:

• BUND on the subject of sufficiency
• BUND for resource protection

ed.: BUND for the Environment and Nature Conservation Germany (BUND) e.V., Nicole Anton (V.I.S.D.P.), Kaiserin-Augusta-Allee 5, 10553 Berlin