The musician Herbert Grönemeyer understands the protest actions, especially young people, against climate change. "We need these young people who really blow our minds, in the truest sense of the word," said the 66-year-old of the German Press Agency in Berlin. "We can be thankful for that."

Grönemeyer sees the need for quick action. "It's about the fact that we're running out of time. I know myself how long it takes for the brains in their sluggishness - including my own - to be fired up to finally commit to a topic." The singer also deals with this topic on his album "Das ist los", which was released on Friday.

Demonstration for climate referendum

Numerous musicians are supporting a demonstration for a climate referendum in Berlin today. Around 35,000 people are expected to attend. With the referendum on Sunday, an alliance wants to achieve that Berlin becomes climate-neutral by 2030 and not by 2045 as previously planned.

Grönemeyer does not understand the reactions of government officials to the protests. "When a government that is being protested judges whether the protest is appropriate, effective or not, then we are in a completely twisted world," said the musician. "Protest has to irritate, annoy and upset. Of course she doesn't like it, otherwise it wouldn't be a protest."