Claudia Kemfert talks about sustainability, resilience and economic stability in an interview

Ms. Kemfert, how do you manage to advise and motivate companies so that they can secure themselves for the future in the long term?

Claudia Kemfert: In my consultations, I sensitize companies to the long-term benefits and savings potential of sustainable measures. Workshops, seminars and individual consultations are key instruments here. Companies have considerable advantages if they focus on sustainability. In view of the current fossil fuel crises and geopolitical conflicts, the importance of a secure and sustainable energy supply is becoming increasingly clear. Those who focus on their own energy production, energy saving and energy efficiency can benefit from these measures in the long term. This not only contributes to security of supply, but also creates sustainable jobs and strengthens economic stability. In addition, concrete case studies and best practices help to demonstrate the positive effects of sustainability strategies.

What does your work as a networker involve? Which colleagues, initiatives and institutions do you work with on a basis of trust?

As a networker, I work in many different ways. My work involves collaboration with numerous scientific institutions in Germany, Europe and worldwide. For example, I advise politicians in the German Advisory Council on the Environment and work closely with civil society, business and politics. I particularly enjoy exchanging ideas with colleagues from science, policy advice and various initiatives that are committed to sustainability and climate protection. These include universities, research institutes, NGOs (non-governmental organizations) and international organizations. This networking enables us to work together on solutions and promote the transfer of knowledge. It is also important to promote dialog between different stakeholders and create platforms for exchange. Writing books, giving talks and taking part in public discussions are also important parts of my work to raise awareness of sustainable issues and inform the public.

What challenges do you think companies and their employees will face in particular in 2025?

Companies will have to deal with several major challenges in 2025. The transformation towards renewable energies and energy-efficient processes will be a key task. The existing modernization backlog and the need to decouple from fossil fuels will place great demands on companies. In addition, managers and all other employees will have to adapt to the increasing impact of climate change, which will require adaptation strategies and resilience measures. Another important aspect will be digitalization and the integration of new technologies into business processes. Investing in research and development remains important in order to remain competitive and develop innovative solutions. Finally, adapting to new legal framework conditions and regulations in the areas of climate protection and sustainability will also play a major role.

What strategies do you recommend in order to implement the best possible solutions?

I recommend that companies should invest more in sustainable technologies and processes and focus intensively on the topics of energy saving, renewable energies and energy efficiency. Close cooperation with science and politics can also be beneficial in order to take advantage of the latest findings and funding opportunities. It also makes sense to continuously educate yourself and follow current developments. Innovative business models and collaborations should also be pursued in order to exploit synergies and benefit from the experience of others. Another important strategy is to integrate sustainability into the corporate strategy and culture. This requires a rethink at all levels and the commitment of managers. Above all, companies should also focus on transparency and good communication in order to inform their stakeholders about their sustainability efforts and build more trust.

You are currently working on topics such as "Financial aid for building refurbishment" and "Modernizing industry for secure jobs". What specific concepts and projects can companies in the industrial sector benefit from in 2025?

Industrial companies can benefit from numerous concepts and projects aimed at sustainability and modernization. Investments in renewable energies such as photovoltaic systems or wind power are important measures. The use of green hydrogen and energy-efficient technologies can also bring considerable benefits. Building renovation projects such as installing heat pumps or improving insulation help to save energy and reduce CO₂ emissions. Companies should also invest in the digitalization and automation of production processes in order to achieve efficiency gains and cost savings. Funding programs and financial support from the state play a crucial role in implementing these projects. In the long term, these measures not only create added value and jobs, but also ensure competitiveness on a global level.


What problems are you currently facing in view of the political situation?

The political situation is currently characterized by uncertainties, which are mainly caused by fossil fuel crises and geopolitical tensions. These instabilities affect the security of supply and increase the risks for companies and national economies. A key problem is dependence on fossil fuels, which are not only harmful to the environment but also susceptible to price fluctuations and geopolitical conflicts. In addition, political instability and disagreements often lead to delays in the implementation of necessary measures. Another problem is the inadequate support and promotion of sustainable projects by politicians. Despite these challenges, it is important that companies and society as a whole act proactively and drive forward the necessary changes.

How can Germany succeed in improving its international standing again?

Germany needs to invest more in infrastructure, digitalization and education. A reform of the debt brake could free up additional financial resources to invest specifically in sustainable projects. In addition, fossil fuel subsidies should be reduced and funds redirected towards renewable energies and energy efficiency. Consistent implementation of the energy transition is also crucial. Germany should also focus more on international cooperation and the exchange of knowledge and technologies. By promoting innovation and supporting start-ups, new impetus can be provided and competitiveness increased. It is also important to improve the political framework and reduce bureaucracy in order to facilitate investment and support companies.

Which countries' developments can Germany learn from and benefit from?

When it comes to efficiency, electromobility and a sustainable transport transition, Scandinavia is a good role model for us. Denmark is a global pioneer when it comes to the entire energy transition. The Danes started reforming their heating grids, expanding renewable energies and moving away from oil back in the 1970s. A list of tasks has almost been completed here. The Chinese are also pumping a lot of money into electromobility and renewable energies, especially solar energy. This shows that other countries have developed competitive advantages over Germany. There are also good examples at a decentralized level. The transport transition is also succeeding in Paris. France's capital shows how well an emission-free or at least environmentally friendly metropolis can function. The Netherlands and Scandinavia have been successfully focusing on the issue of mobility by bicycle for a long time, and Austria is impressing in the area of energy-efficient renovation. Overall, I see good opportunities for Germany to continuously improve in all these areas and learn from other countries.