Politics at over 35 degrees: Robert Habeck calls for "cool rooms" and "cool cities" for Germany
Photo:Kay Nietfeld / DPA
In view of the current high temperatures in Germany, the Greens boss Robert Habeck is calling for a heat plan. With this, Germany should better arm itself for heat waves, health should be protected. Risk groups in particular should be taken into account - and green spaces in cities provide cooling.
A uniform, graduated heat warning system is needed, said Habeck. "There should be a nationwide advice line, risk groups should receive special attention." "Cool rooms" should be set up in health care facilities. In addition, an 800 million euro funding program "Green open spaces and water for cool cities" should promote the establishment of green spaces, green on buildings and fresh air corridors, provide shade and finance public water dispensers.
"Such heat waves will be the new normal"
The high "Emil" is currently spreading over Northern Europe and ensures that temperatures of more than 37 degrees Celsius are reached in Germany. Last weekend, 38.6 degrees were measured in Trier in Rhineland-Palatinate - more than anywhere else in the year to date.
"The current summer heat does not come as a surprise," said Habeck. "Such heat waves will be the new normal." Especially this year with shocking reports from Siberia and the Arctic shows that the climate crisis is increasing rapidly. The heat is a serious threat to the health of the population. "Many people suffer physically, from insomnia and cardiovascular complaints. Research is based on thousands of people dying prematurely - also here in Germany."
The federal government has a duty here, said Habeck. She should take an example from France, where a multi-stage heat action plan is already being implemented. The federal government must develop an overall strategy "which is adapted regionally by the state governments and locally by the municipalities, depending on the circumstances."
Icon: The mirrormst / dpa