The citizens’ vote for the BMW battery factory in Lower Bavaria shows that they understand: If you want prosperity and climate protection, you have to make compromises, even on your own doorstep.
The people in Straßkirchen, Lower Bavaria, clearly answered the question of what is worth more to them, their land or a new BMW plant, on Sunday. 75 percent voted in favor of building a battery factory. Given the voter turnout of 77 percent, one can really say that the majority of people in the town of 3,300 are convinced of the car company’s arguments. The election result also shows that many people are now concerned about a loss of prosperity and an economic decline in the country. And instead of just complaining about it, something happens in people’s minds. The realization is gaining ground: transformation and climate protection can succeed, but only if you make compromises – even on your own doorstep.