Germany commits to improving material resource efficiency through a dedicated strategy called the German Resource Efficiency Programme (ProgRess). The programme was adopted by the German government in February 2012 (ProgRess I) and updated in February 2016 (ProgRess II). The goal of ProgRess is to structure the extraction and use of natural resources in a sustainable way and to reduce associated environmental pollution. Both programmes are relevant for market incentives, information, expert advice, education, research and innovation. The programmes also work towards strengthening voluntary measures and initiatives on the part of industry and society. PorgRess aims to provide sound and long-term orientation for all stakeholders.
The commitment falls under focus areas 2, 4, 5, and 9 of the Batumi Initiative to promote the internalisation of externalities and the sustainable use of natural capital; shift consumer behaviours towards sustainable consumption patterns; develop clean physical capital for sustainable production pattern; and promote public participation and education for sustainable development.
This commitment is relevant to SDGs 8 and 12.