In memory of Klaus Töpfer

Our patron and supporter from the very beginning has passed away. We will remember his commitment to our work and the impact it had. 

As the second Minister for the Environment in the cabinet of Helmut Kohl, Klaus Töpfer established new benchmarks for the environment and climate protection policy in the 1980s and 1990s. His persuasive powers enabled the phasing out of CFCs and leaded gasoline. Even then, he promoted renewable energies and the circular economy. 

From 1998 to 2006, Klaus Töpfer was Executive Director of UNEP, the United Nations Environment Program. His steadfast belief in the commitment of young people prompted him to become the patron of the children and youth initiative Plant-for-the-Planet in 2008, when we were just one year old. This “quality seal” was incredibly valuable for our young organization and helped us in many ways. We will always be grateful for his trust and advice. Our thoughts are with his family.