Since 2017, the study “Future? Ask Young People!” has asked young people between the ages of 14 and 22 every two years about their environmental awareness, attitudes toward environmental topics, and their demands of politicians. What matters to young generations? How do they view the future? How do they get involved in environmental and climate issues in their daily lives and collectively with others? These and other questions are answered in the chartbook. In addition, the young people’s answers are analyzed over time.

Key Findings: 

• Environmental and climate protection remain important topics for 73 percent of the young people surveyed.
• 69 percent of respondents are pessimistic about the future of the environment and climate.
• Young people’s interest in politics is high overall. 88 percent of respondents consider it very important to live in a democracy.
• 26 percent of respondents believe the federal government is doing enough for environmental and climate protection.
• Sustainable behaviors, such as individual consumption or civic engagement, are part of daily life for many respondents.

In 2025 survey, 1,311 people between the ages of 14 and 22 with their primary residence in Germany were surveyed. It was conducted as a supplementary survey as part of the Environmental Awareness Study 2026.

View chartbook (DE)