In recent years, climate activists have been protesting against fossil fuel use by adhering themselves to airport runways, with Germany being a primary focus of these demonstrations. Airports in Cologne, Munich, and Frankfurt have been particularly targeted. The frequency of these actions has led Germans to create the word "Klimakleber"—literally "climate glue"—to describe this sticky form of protest. The term is now so prevalent that it was included in the 29th edition of the Duden, Germany's equivalent of the Oxford Dictionary, which was updated on August 20.

Across Europe, the movement for climate action and environmental awareness has led to the creation of many inventive new terms in various languages. Here are some of the most creative climate-related terms:

Flygskam: This Swedish term, which translates to "flight shame," was popularized by climate activist Greta Thunberg. It refers to the feeling of guilt or embarrassment associated with flying due to its environmental impact.

Smygflyga: Also coined by the anti-flying movement, this Swedish term means "sneak flying." It describes the act of flying in secret, without publicizing it on social media, to avoid the stigma associated with air travel.

Tågskryt: To counteract "flight shame," the Swedish have also come up with "train brag." This term encourages people to travel by train and proudly share their journeys on social media.

Cli-fi: Short for "climate fiction," this English term refers to literature and films that explore apocalyptic climate scenarios or fictional worlds grappling with the effects of climate change. Examples include films like The Day After Tomorrow and 2012, as well as Cormac McCarthy's novel The Road.

Solastalgia: This English term describes the emotional or existential distress caused by climate change. It combines the Latin "sōlācium" (comfort) with the Greek root "-algia" (pain), echoing the word "nost