Prof. Dr Marc Oliver Bettzüge reappointed to the German Council of Experts on Climate Change

Role and Significance

According to its legal mandate, the Council of Experts on Climate Change examines Germany’s emissions data and trends, determines whether adjustments to climate policy are necessary, and evaluates the effectiveness of climate policy measures. In addition, the Council provides expert opinions on legal frameworks and specific policy packages from the Federal Government – for example, on the development of the Climate Action Programme and cross-sectoral policy directions. In his role, Prof. Bettzüge contributes in particular his expertise in economics and energy economics, including analyses of macroeconomic interdependencies and implementation challenges related to climate policy.

Scientific Expertise as a Basis for Political Decision-Making

Prof. Bettzüge’s contribution to the Council of Experts on Climate Change is a prime example of how academic research can directly inform political practice: his scientifically grounded insights feed directly into the assessment and development of national climate policy – in line with the faculty’s motto, “Today’s ideas. Tomorrow’s impact.”

Project-based findings from energy economics research at the University and the EWI – such as those related to CO₂ pricing, energy security, or transformational investments – find their way into public and political decision-making processes through Prof. Bettzüge. Together with his fellow Council members, he contributes visibly to the transfer of knowledge-based advice to policy-makers, playing a significant role in national climate protection efforts.

On the occasion of the reappointment of the Council, Federal Environment Minister Carsten Schneider recognised the Council’s achievements to date and emphasised that its members have “established this new body as an independent scientific advisory council to the Federal Government, providing numerous important stimuli for the further development of national climate policy through their published reports and statements.”

Further information

• Prof. Marc-Oliver Bettzüge
• To the German Council of Experts on Climate Change
• To the Press release by the Federal Ministry for the Environment, Climate Action, Nature Conversation and Nuclear Safety(BMUV)