Introduction to Cultures of Climate Action in Germany

This introductory article examines the political landscape of 2025 with respect to Germany's image as a leader on climate action with a long history of grassroots activism. It begins by describing the climate crisis and the crisis of democracy as deeply interconnected. Assessing the level of attention that climate change has received within u.s.-based German Studies, the article highlights the diverse underpinnings of German climate action and activism as both political and cultural phenomena. The authors conclude with a brief case study of recent developments in German energy cultures in general and nuclear power in particular, highlighting the important role of grassroots activism.