BUND Criticizes Thuringia's Environmental Policy, Demands Increased Funding
The Association for the Environment and Nature Conservation Germany (BUND) in Thuringia has strongly criticized the state government for allegedly regressing in environmental, nature, and climate protection. Sebastian König, BUND’s state managing director, accused the administration of deprioritizing conservation despite branding Thuringia as the 'Green Heart.' Specific grievances include relaxed regulations allowing the shooting of cormorants, the diversion of nature conservation funds to agriculture, and a significant shortfall in co-financing for federal projects. During a state meeting in Erfurt, BUND presented key motions demanding immediate corrective actions. The association calls for at least ten million euros in annual nature conservation funding and permanent financial support for Natura 2000 stations beyond 2030. Additionally, BUND urges the reduction of bureaucratic hurdles through simplified application procedures and faster approvals. Regarding renewable energy, the group advocates for prioritizing building-based solar systems via mandatory requirements rather than open-space photovoltaics. They also demand the immediate release of the long-overdue update to Thuringia’s climate protection strategy, emphasizing the need for a renewed focus on ecological sustainability and adequate resource allocation.
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BUND Criticizes Thuringia's Environmental Policy, Demands Increased Funding
The Association for the Environment and Nature Conservation Germany (BUND) in Thuringia has strongly criticized the state government for allegedly regressing in environmental, nature, and climate protection. Sebastian König, BUND’s state managing director, accused the administration of deprioritizing conservation despite branding Thuringia as the 'Green Heart.' Specific grievances include relaxed regulations allowing the shooting of cormorants, the diversion of nature conservation funds to agriculture, and a significant shortfall in co-financing for federal projects. During a state meeting in Erfurt, BUND presented key motions demanding immediate corrective actions. The association calls for at least ten million euros in annual nature conservation funding and permanent financial support for Natura 2000 stations beyond 2030. Additionally, BUND urges the reduction of bureaucratic hurdles through simplified application procedures and faster approvals. Regarding renewable energy, the group advocates for prioritizing building-based solar systems via mandatory requirements rather than open-space photovoltaics. They also demand the immediate release of the long-overdue update to Thuringia’s climate protection strategy, emphasizing the need for a renewed focus on ecological sustainability and adequate resource allocation.
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