Greenpeace stages sinking cars to protest German motor show

Greenpeace staged a protest ahead of the start of Germany's major annual IAA Mobility trade fair in Munich, showing cars sinking in a body of water in front of the conference venue, reported dpa.

On Monday, activists climbed into a pond in front of the main entrance and held up banners with slogans such as "Car industry sinks climate protection" or "Shrink now or sink later."

Parts of car exteriors were floated, which gave the impression of vehicles sinking, to draw attention to the increase in extreme weather events caused by climate change.

Greenpeace criticized the "excessive waste" caused by the automotive industry, pointing to high energy consumption and the exploitation of raw materials.

"The German car industry is splurging like there is no tomorrow," Greenpeace transport expert Marissa Reiserer said.

We need a transport policy that no longer equates mobility with owning a car, she added. "Reliable railways, such as in Switzerland, and well-developed public transport are the prerequisites for mobility that no longer sinks the climate and nature."

Germany's biggest motor show, IAA Mobility, will be opened by Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Tuesday. The expo brings together car manufacturers, suppliers, tech companies and politicians.

The long-running trade fair, which is being held in Munich for the second time, is controversial and numerous protests are expected.