- Initiative of the Last Generation bringing actions to Sanssouci Park
Eco-activists from "Final Chapter" highlighted the impacts of climate change at Park Sanssouci in Potsdam. Around 30 activists waved signs on a Saturday, with messages like "NextGen not tied to coal, oil, and gas" or partaking in a lie-down protest.
The event took place alongside the open-air display, "NextGen. Climate change in the verdant UNESCO World Heritage Site - and what we can do," presented by the Prussian Palaces and Gardens Foundation. The foundation sought to disseminate their findings and interact with guests through the exhibition in the park surrounding the Sanssouci Palace. Initial reports suggest the event was conducted peacefully.
Park Sanssouci has suffered significantly due to climate change. Scorching heat, intense sunlight, and prolonged drought have adversely affected nearly 80% of the trees in the UNESCO World Heritage site, as per the foundation's online information. Since 2017, between 160 and 300 trees have been felled annually due to these conditions.
The tactics adopted by "Final Chapter" spark debate. They aim to amplify pressure on the federal government to take more decisive action against climate catastrophe. These methods include numerous airport infiltrations and flight disruptions using adhesive actions. Berlin has been heavily impacted by these initiatives. The group identifies itself as "Final Chapter" as they perceive themselves as the last cohort capable of averting the breaking points - the climate change tipping points.
The Neuruppin Public Prosecutor's Office has indicted five members of the eco-activist group on charges of forming a criminal organization. The alleged crimes include attacks on facilities of the PCK oil refinery in Schwedt, the capital airport BER, and the Barberini Museum in Potsdam, between April 2022 and May 2023. In addition to charges of criminal organization formation, allegations include disruption of public operations, coercion, and property damage. The trial has not commenced yet.
Crime related to eco-protests has become a topic of concern. Five members of "Final Chapter" have been indicted for forming a criminal organization and engaging in activities such as attacking oil refineries, disrupting airport operations, and damaging museums.
Despite their peaceful protests at Park Sanssouci, discussing crime and its impacts on the environment, many eco-activist groups like "Final Chapter" face legal consequences for their more drastic tactics.
