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The German population views social change with a mixture of optimism and uncertainty. This is shown by the Transformation Barometer 2025, which was published on Thursday by the Institute for Sustainability Management at Leuphana University of Lüneburg. The barometer is based on a nationwide representative survey conducted in collaboration with the social research institute infas. Lower Saxony was examined separately.
According to the study, the term “transformation” remains difficult for many people to grasp. 58.6 percent have little understanding of it, while 22.8 percent find it unsettling. At the same time, respondents cite clear priorities: education (78.6 percent), healthcare (77.4 percent), and public safety (62.6 percent) are particularly important to them. Issues such as digitalization and artificial intelligence, on the other hand, play a much less important role for many (16.8 percent).
The study shows broad support for climate protection. More than 74 percent see major ecological risks, and measures for climate adaptation have approval ratings of more than 77 percent. According to the survey, a speed limit on highways also enjoys significant support, with 68.8 percent in favor. However, there is disagreement about the pace of change: while 51.9 percent call for faster action on climate protection, 44.6 percent advocate a more cautious approach.
The question of government intervention in private life is also controversial. Just under half of those surveyed are in favor of it, but a total of 52.3 percent reject more regulation. Trust in the economy and politics has been shaken: according to the study, 69.2 percent distrust market forces and 17 percent doubt democracy.
The researchers distinguish between three emotional response groups—the uncertain, the detached, and the involved. Despite the differences, many respondents believe that politics and business have a responsibility when it comes to sustainability. 74.4 percent expect more commitment from the federal government, and 77.2 percent from companies. According to project manager Professor Harald Heinrichs, the majority of the population is ready for change, “but only if it is socially just and politicians provide guidance.”
The picture in Lower Saxony is similar to that in the rest of Germany, with some people being slightly more skeptical about sustainability and climate protection. Environment Minister Christian Meyer (Green Party) saw the results as confirmation of the state government's transformation course. He said it was an encouraging sign that many citizens recognize the need for change. However, implementation can only succeed if people are actively involved in the transformation process. “With the Lower Saxony Climate Council, we want to make exactly that possible,” says Meyer.
Background:
The Transformation Barometer 2025 is based on a representative, standardized survey of the German resident population aged 18 and over on sustainability-oriented transformation processes. The survey was designed, conducted, and evaluated in 2025 as part of the “Lower Saxony Sustainability Strategy” research project at Leuphana University Lüneburg under the direction of Prof. Harald Heinrichs. It was funded by the Lower Saxony Ministry for the Environment, Energy, and Climate Protection.
https://doi.org/10.48548/pubdata-2337
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