Luisa Neubauer vs. Merz: Tired of Excuses,
and Who Can Blame Her?

Let’s talk about the latest climate eye-roll moment from German politics and the absolutely justified clapback it got.

Last week, Chancellor Friedrich Merz downplayed Germany’s role in the climate crisis by pointing out that the country’s emissions make up “only about 2%” of the global total. Translation:  Why should we bother doing anything serious if we’re such a small part of the problem?

Cue Luisa Neubauer, climate activist, one of the faces of Germany’s Fridays for Future movement. She wasn’t having it. In a sharp and slightly furious video posted on social media, Neubauer called Merz’s argument exactly what it is: “bullshit.”

“Nobody’s asking Germany to save the planet solo,” she said. “But we are expecting you to do your damn part.”

And honestly? She’s completely right. The “but we’re too small to matter” argument is one of the oldest and weakest excuses in the political playbook. Yes, Germany emits about 2% of the world’s CO₂, right now. But historically? It’s one of the top polluters. And today, it’s still the EU’s biggest economy, with massive global influence and the resources to actually make a difference. If Germany gives up on climate leadership, what message does that send to the rest of the world?

Neubauer didn’t stop there. She reminded everyone that Merz not only made these comments, he’s also been quietly backtracking on Germany’s climate promises since taking office. 

“Thanks for nothing,” she said. “And this guy is Chancellor?”

It wasn’t just a burn. It was a wake-up call. Because at this point, we don’t need more politicians acting like climate action is optional, or that meaningful change should wait until everyone else moves first. That’s not leadership, it’s procrastination in a suit. Neubauer called it out for exactly what it is: a mindset that shrinks from responsibility and hides behind stats to avoid real action.

So yes, it was bold. It was direct. Maybe even a little rude. But it was also exactly what this moment needed. Luisa Neubauer isn’t just frustrated. She’s tired of hearing powerful people use their platforms to talk down ambition and she’s not alone.

The planet doesn’t care if you’re only 2% of the problem. What matters is whether you act like you’re 0% of the solution.