How one German city plans to challenge 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 storm surge in the Baltic Sea devastated parts of northern Germany, destroying dikes and coastal cliffs in Kiel, the state's capital. This was the worst surge in over 150 years, with the city losing 2.68 meters (8.79 feet) of coastal bluff, more than four times the average loss in the previous two decades. Kiel, one of the first cities to declare a climate emergency, is now rethinking its design and working on becoming more resilient to weather extremes.
City officials recognize that adaptation is crucial, but it should not replace efforts to reduce fossil fuel emissions. The city is testing solutions like adding vegetation to building facades, redesigning parks for better air circulation, and using multi-use design for soccer pitches to manage stormwater. Public education and engagement are also key, with officials visiting neighborhoods to explain the need for 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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