Germany's Environmental Policy after Reunification

Paper Summary:

This paper explains that, many years ago, the development of a systematic environmental policy began in Germany; but the reunification of the two German states (Federal Republic of Germany and German Democratic Republic), in 1990 created a great new challenge for German environmental policy because of the extensive environmental damage in the former GDR and because of the major economic crisis that started during this time. The author points out that the most remarkable result of increased environmental awareness was the development of an "eco-industry", a new manufacturing sector that develops pollution-control devices and other environmentally useful equipment. The paper concludes that the constantly changing world of politics requires innovative strategies to keep up with these changes; therefore, all available economic resources, environmental group leadership, and public environmental support, including the Green Party, should combine to overcome the obstacles created by potential economic and environmental tradeoffs.

Table of Contents
Literature Review
A Brief Review of Germany's Environmental History
Integration of Systems and Policies
Energy and Environmental Policy
Environmental Programs and Initiatives
Methodology
Results of Study
Organizational Structure of Environmental Protection in Germany
The Environment
Germany's Future
Economic and Political Options for Environmental Protection in Germany
Traditional Features of German Environmental Policy
Discussion, Conclusion and Recommendations

From the Paper:

"Regulations and government actions to protect nature and human beings against environmentally hazardous activities of commercial and industrial firms have a long history in Germany. Environmental protection is anchored in private and public law, including building, public health and sanitation, and police laws. The Water Rights Act and the Factories Act set the standard for many subsequent laws. The various regulations created to prevent offensive emissions from becoming a nuisance to health and property were systematized and concentrated for the first time in the Prussian Industrial Statute of 1845."

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