With the climate change debate and the recent increase in energy prices, striving for energy efficiency has become imperative throughout our society. Progressive globalization requires innovative approaches to counter the negative consequences of increasing mobility. In particular, emissions need to be reduced. This applies both to air traffic and all types of terrestrial vehicles. Because each kilogram that can be saved in a moved mass helps climate protection, it is necessary to rethink the selection of materials for aircraft and other vehicles. Carbon fibers are at present the most important substitute material. In combination with polymer matrix systems, composites can be produced that are 80% lighter than steel and half as heavy as aluminum, while delivering at least twice the strength and stiffness. These modern construction materials are therefore opening up completely new technical possibilities.