Germany has already used up all the natural resources that should last for the entire year 2026, according to the Global Footprint Network. Earth Overshoot Day for Germany fell on May 9, meaning the country has consumed its annual biocapacity in just over four months.

If everyone on Earth consumed as many natural resources and produced as much carbon dioxide as people in Germany, the planet's annual biocapacity would be exhausted within the first third of the year. The German Federation for the Environment and Nature (BUND) attributes this to Germany's heavy reliance on fossil fuels, with major contributions from energy-intensive industries, construction, road transport, and industrial livestock farming.

BUND chairman Olaf Bandt criticized the current trajectory, stating: "Our current way of living and doing business is not sustainable. Instead of switching to renewables, we are continuing to rely on coal, oil and gas." He advocated for solar and wind power, heat pumps, and efficient electric cars as alternatives.

In a separate development, surfing has resumed at Munich's Eisbach wave in the English Garden after officials lifted a previous ban. Green Party Mayor Dominik Krause approved the move, calling surfing on the Eisbach "an integral part of the Munich way of life" and the wave "a landmark of the city."

Only experienced river surfers are allowed, and only until 10 p.m., with new safety rules including quick-release leashes to prevent accidents. The site had been closed after a fatal accident in April 2025 when a surfer was pulled underwater after her leash became trapped.

Source: www.dw.com