Julia Pongratz Appointed to the Council of Experts on Climate Change

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Appointment to the Council of Experts on Climate Change

The second term of the Council of Experts on Climate Change will begin on September 1, 2025. The German government has appointed five renowned experts to serve for the next five years. Among them is Prof. Dr. Julia Pongratz, Chair of Physical Geography and Land Use Systems at LMU Munich.

The Council was established in 2020 under the Federal Climate Change Act. As an independent scientific body, it analyzes key data on Germany’s climate policy each year, with a particular focus on greenhouse gas emissions and the achievement of national climate targets.

Independent Oversight of Climate Policy

Each year, the Council reviews the greenhouse gas emission data published by the German Environment Agency and provides scientifically grounded assessments of the effectiveness of climate measures to both the federal government and the Bundestag. The Council also regularly evaluates the federal government’s climate action programs – taking into account social equity, cost-effectiveness, and practical feasibility.

In her new role, Julia Pongratz contributes her long-standing scientific expertise in the fields of land use and CO₂ emissions to the Council’s work.

“To tackle climate change, we need not only ambitious targets but also the consistent implementation of appropriate measures,” Pongratz states. “The Council of Experts accompanies this process from an independent scientific perspective and assesses the progress of climate protection measures in Germany.”

Focus on Land Use and CO₂ Balance in Climate Policy

As a recognized expert on land-based emissions, Pongratz sees urgent need for action in the land use sector:

“The land use sector presents particular challenges: the rewetting of peatlands is progressing slowly, while droughts, storms, and pest infestations are placing significant stress on our forests,” she explains. “These developments are clearly reflected in the greenhouse gas balance and require targeted support through appropriate measures. With my expertise, I hope to help the Council effectively address these challenges.”

Interdisciplinary Council with a Fresh Perspective

In addition to Julia Pongratz, the following experts have also been newly appointed to the Council:

• Prof. Dr. Dr. Tanja Kneiske (Fraunhofer IEG, Cottbus)
• Prof. Dr. Allister Loder (Technical University of Munich)

Continuing their service from the previous term are:

• Prof. Dr. Marc Oliver Bettzüge (University of Cologne)
• Dr. Barbara Schlomann (Fraunhofer ISI, Karlsruhe)

According to the Federal Ministry for the Environment, the new composition of the Council combines continuity and expanded expertise – providing a solid foundation for the further development of Germany’s climate policy.