How one German city is preparing for climate extremes
Western Europe has recorded its hottest-ever June and July, and extreme weather from wildfires to storms is here to stay. How can we adapt to what seems to be the new normal? Cities like Kiel are trying new ideas.
In October 2023, a powerful storm surge hit the Baltic Sea coast near Kiel, a city in northern Germany. The surge destroyed dikes, collapsed cliffs and damaged marinas, eroding 2.68 meters (8.79 feet) of coastal land, which is four times the yearly average over the past two decades. The impacts of climate change are being felt in Kiel, according to Martina Baum, who oversees the city's climate adaptation division.
Since 2019, the city has declared a climate emergency and is actively working to adapt to extreme weather conditions. Baum emphasizes that adaptation is not a replacement for reducing fossil fuel emissions, but rather a complementary measure to protect the city. While measures like air conditioning may increase energy consumption, Kiel is exploring natural cooling solutions, such as adding vegetation to buildings and redesigning public spaces to promote natural cooling.
The city is also testing tree species that can withstand future conditions and exploring multi-use design to manage stormwater during heavy rainfall. Public engagement is crucial, with initiatives like neighborhood fairs and educational events to help residents understand the trade-offs and urgency of climate adaptation measures.
Written by urgent.news from DW English (Top Stories)'s reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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