German Phrase
Wir müssen die CO2-Emissionen senken.
Meaning
The sentence means 'We must reduce the CO2 emissions.' It expresses a sense of urgency and collective responsibility in tackling climate change.
When to use
Use this sentence when discussing environmental policies, corporate sustainability goals, or any conversation about climate action and the need to lower greenhouse‑gas output.
✦Grammar Breakdown
WirmüssendieCO2-Emissionensenken
Wir
Personal pronoun for 'we', used as the subject in first person plural.
müssen
Modal verb meaning 'must' or 'have to', conjugated here in present tense for 'wir'.
die
Definite article in accusative plural, matching the noun 'Emissionen'.
CO2-Emissionen
Compound noun, plural; 'CO2' is an abbreviation kept unchanged, 'Emissionen' means emissions.
senken
Infinitive verb meaning 'to lower' or 'to reduce', used after a modal verb.
🗨In Conversation
Die Durchschnittstemperatur steigt jedes Jahr weiter.
The average temperature rises every year.
Ja, wir müssen die CO2-Emissionen senken.
Yes, we must reduce the CO2 emissions.
✕Common Mistakes
Wir muss die CO2-Emissionen senken.
The modal verb must agree with the subject 'wir'; use 'müssen' not 'muss'.
Wir müssen das CO2-Emissionen senken.
The article must match the plural noun 'Emissionen'; use 'die' not 'das'.
↔Alternatives
Wir sollten die CO2-Emissionen reduzieren.
We should reduce the CO2 emissions.
Wir müssen den Ausstoß von CO2 verringern.
We must lower the CO2 output.
Cultural Tip
In German environmental discourse, 'CO2-Emissionen senken' is a standard phrase used by politicians, NGOs, and businesses. It is a formal construction, so keep the tone polite and professional, especially in written reports or presentations.