Climate crisis: One in five companies is experiencing negative effects

21 percent of companies in Germany are already experiencing negative consequences from the climate crisis. That's around 800.000 businesses. Energy-intensive companies are particularly vulnerable, according to a KfW study.

According to Study by KfW Research feels more than one in five companies in Germany the negative consequences of Climate CrisisThis concerns 21 percent the companies – around 800.000 Businesses. The effects of climate change are hitting them particularly hard. energy-intensive Businesses. Companies where energy costs account for ten percent or more of total expenses report problems more frequently: 31 percent say that they are at least partially affected – five percentage points more than last year.

Especially large Companies with an annual turnover of over 500 million euros are suffering from the effects of global warming. 74 percent They report that they are struggling with it, at least in part. The number rose significantlyIn the KfW Climate Barometer 2024, only 61 percent stated that they were at least partially feeling the effects of climate change. One year later, that number had risen. 13 percentage points more. 

Among the larger medium-sized businesses with more than 50 employees, but less than 500 million euros in revenue, see 42 percent also negative effects. Regarding the small farms with less than five employees sense 19 percent credentials for negative consequences of climate change. 

Climate protection secures prosperity

These figures come from a Special analysis of the KfW Climate Barometer 2025, an annual Survey from companies on the topics of climate protection and the energy transition. For this analysis, the experts primarily examined the data from the fourth survey round between February and June 2025, in which around 13.300 companies participated. 

You might also be interested in:

Operations management

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs): Loan negotiations remain difficult

Craft policy

Without agricultural land, there is no prosperity.

Operations management

Small and medium-sized businesses are visiting bank branches less and less frequently.

Dr. Dirk SchumacherKfW's chief economist explains: "Extreme weather events such as droughts, storms, and floods are increasing worldwide and causing considerable damage, including in Germany. A consistent and ambitious international response is therefore essential." Climate protection policy It not only serves to protect human health and the stability of ecosystems. It is a significant lever to secure future economic prosperity." 

Many remember the dry summer Between 2022 and 2025, several energy-intensive industries came under pressure. Low river levels hampered the transport of goods and energy carriers. Thermal and hydroelectric power plants were able to generate less power, and in industry, the limited use of cooling water restricted many cooling processes. 

 KfW Climate Barometer 2025 . > Full study available to readDHB now also digital!Simply click here and register for the digital German Crafts Journal (DHB)!