Table.Briefings

Feature

Climate finance: Which countries should pay how much

The debate on the hottest topic at COP29 has begun: What payments for global climate action would be fair? There is no answer, but there are tendencies: More countries and sectors should pay than before, especially the USA. As a donor, Germany is one of the few bright spots.

By Bernhard Pötter

Government report: How many emissions German taxpayers cause

A previously unreleased study commissioned by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action calculates for the first time how many billions in tax revenue the German government increased emissions and by how much – and which sector is benefiting the most.

By Bernhard Pötter

Federal budget 2025: What the EU debt rules stipulate

The German government is arguing about the debt brake. Finance Minister Lindner defends it with reference to the EU debt rules. However, a closer look reveals that Germany would only have to carry out a manageable budget consolidation for 2025 to comply with EU rules.

By

Direct air capture: How China and the United States advance the new technology

China has recently tested a system for filtering carbon dioxide from the atmosphere (DAC). Thanks to its strength in mass production, the country could significantly contribute to reducing the costs of these technologies. The United States also provides billions in funding – and companies such as Climeworks are reporting progress. Nevertheless, the challenges remain significant.

By Nico Beckert