In response to severe drought and heat waves, Environment Minister Carsten Schneider advocates for a constitutional amendment to make heat protection a shared responsibility among federal, state, and local governments.

As Germany grapples with the tangible impacts of climate change, including extreme heat and dwindling river levels, Environment Minister Carsten Schneider has called for a collaborative approach to heat protection. Schneider emphasized that the federal government must take an active role alongside states and municipalities to address these pressing issues, which he described as no longer hypothetical but a stark reality.

Currently, the responsibility for implementing climate adaptation measures, such as funding for air conditioning and shading, lies primarily with local authorities. Schneider expressed frustration over the limitations imposed by existing regulations, stating that significant changes are needed to enable the federal government to contribute effectively. He plans to propose a constitutional amendment to classify climate adaptation as a shared task, requiring a two-thirds majority in the Bundestag for approval.

Support for Schneider’s initiative is gaining traction, particularly from the Green Party, whose leader Felix Banaszak highlighted the financial constraints faced by municipalities that often deprioritize heat protection. Additionally, various organizations, including the German Association of Cities and the Social Association VdK, have voiced their backing for the proposed constitutional changes. Meanwhile, the ongoing low water levels in the Rhine and Danube rivers are prompting discussions among transport ministers about necessary measures to mitigate the economic impact on shipping and trade.