Autofasting, Digital Detox, and More: Fasting is Diverse - Rhineland-Palatinate's bold climate fast challenges daily habits for seven weeks

A new climate fast campaign is underway in Rhineland-Palatinate, running throughout the seven weeks of Lent. Organised by local churches and environmental groups, the initiative encourages people to rethink daily habits for greater sustainability. Each week will focus on a different theme, from reducing plastic to cutting back on digital use.

The campaign, titled 'Enough is enough', is backed by the dioceses of Trier and Mainz, along with the Protestant Church of the Palatinate. It builds on the tradition of Lenten fasting but shifts the focus to climate action and mindful consumption.

One key challenge is the 'plastic fast', promoted by the Federation for the Environment and Nature Conservation Germany (BUND). Participants are urged to avoid single-use plastics and unnecessary packaging in their daily routines. Meanwhile, NABU Rhineland-Palatinate is pushing a 'car fast', encouraging people to leave their vehicles parked and opt for walking, cycling, or public transport instead.

A 'consumer fast' is also part of the initiative, asking people to avoid impulse buys and prioritise repairing, reusing, or borrowing items. Another focus is the 'digital fast', inspired by a 2023 DAK study showing many hope reducing screen time will lower stress. The campaign suggests setting fixed offline periods or cutting back on social media.

The goal remains clear: to help individuals reflect on what they truly need and make climate protection a part of everyday life.

The climate fast runs from 18 February to 5 April 2026, offering weekly themes to guide participants. By rethinking mobility, consumption, and digital habits, the campaign aims to make sustainability more accessible. Organisers hope the initiative will leave a lasting impact beyond the Lenten period.