German Associations Demand Constitutional Heat Protection Amidst Rising Temperatures

Amidst soaring temperatures, German associations are urging for heat protection to be recognized as a constitutional community task. The German Association of Cities, represented by its president Burkhard Jung, advocates for integrating climate adaptation and heat protection measures into the Basic Law. Jung argues this would provide structural financial support to municipalities, which often struggle with underfunding. He stated, "Heat protection remains an ongoing task." The social association VdK echoes this sentiment, demanding that the federal government establish constitutional frameworks ensuring effective heat protection for all citizens, regardless of income, housing, or health status. VdK President Verena Bentele called for binding standards, reliable funding, and clear responsibilities. The association specifically requested public cooling centers and adequate protection for facilities like nursing homes and schools. To better reach vulnerable individuals during heat warnings, VdK proposed voluntary, privacy-compliant municipal registers. They also highlighted the financial burden of cooling devices and external shading, urging for targeted subsidies to combat "energy poverty in summer." These demands follow a severe heatwave in June, which saw temperatures in many parts of Germany reach 40 degrees Celsius and was linked to at least 9,600 deaths, according to the Robert Koch Institute.

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Heat protection remains an ongoing task.