German greenhouse emissions declined in 2011, even with less nuclear power.

[kristopher]

2. (GHG) decreased in 2011 by 26.5 per cent compared to the 1990 index year.

The same interest groups that have pushed to shut down the nuclear plants are also the one behind the political thrust achieving this remarkable reduction in emissions. Are the critics of this groups' nuclear policies from nations with steadily increasing emissions or are they from nations that are on a path rivaling Germany's?

Greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) decreased in 2011 by 26.5 per cent compared to the 1990 index year. This again exceeds the Kyoto reduction target of 21 per cent. Despite the upward economic trend and the decommissioning of eight nuclear power plants, GHG emissions declined by 2 per cent compared to 2010, making it equal to levels in the 2009 crisis year. Says UBA President Flasbarth, “Emissions were in fact reduced due to relatively mild weather, but the growing share of green electricity resulted in lower emissions as did fewer exports of electricity. In consideration of the change in energy policy and the low proportion of power from nuclear power plants, these emissions figures are a measure of success. In order to achieve our 40-percent mitigation target, we must not let up on our efforts.”