membership exclusives

Why Frankfurt’s plan to build Europe’s biggest airport is making locals so angry

Germany’s financial capital is waging a relentless campaign to establish itself as a key centre of global business. While jobs and wealth are being created aplenty, some locals feel like they are being trodden underfoot.

nuclear

Inspectors faked safety checks at two nuclear plants

Workers at two nuclear power plants in western Germany submitted fake reports of their checks on radiation meters, it emerged this week.

emissions

Dieselgate scandal 'may hit other German brands'

German authorities said on Wednesday that they have measured excessive levels of exhaust emissions in several manufacturers' vehicles, in a revelation that could see the scandal around Volkswagen grow to encompass other firms.

European Union

Consumer groups call for end to EU light bulb ban

Consumer protection organisations have demanded a suspension of the EU ban on incandescent light bulbs, citing official tests that showed the new compact fluorescent lamps to be dangerous if broken.

Cars

'Monster' truck makers flaunt green credentials

European drivers should be afraid, very afraid. If vehicle makers at a major trade fair opening in Germany on Thursday get their way, "monster trucks" are soon coming to the continent's motorways.

Energy

Germany to extend life of nuclear reactors

Germany said Monday it would extend the life of its nuclear reactors by an average of 12 years after marathon talks on the controversial issue that will shape the energy policy of Europe's top economy.

Berlin

Two-degree target crucial to Copenhagen, minister says

Germany's environment minister said the Copenhagen climate summit would fail if nations did not agree to a maximum two-degree rise in Earth's temperature, in an interview published on Sunday.

zoo

More artificial reefs planned in the North and Baltic seas

After successfully constructing artificial coral reefs six years ago, researchers in the state of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern said this week they are planning to add more in the North and Baltic Sea while exploring different economic and tourism possibilities.