Public drinking fountains become more common in German cities for heat relief

Cities across the German state of Saxony-Anhalt are expanding their network of public drinking water fountains, offering free refreshment and contributing to climate adaptation efforts. Magdeburg, for instance, has seen a significant increase, growing from zero fountains three years ago to five currently, with plans for two more.

The city is actively involving its residents in the placement of these new fountains through an online survey, aiming to provide accessible, high-quality drinking water. The existing fountains are located at key points throughout the city, including the Breiter Weg, Ernst-Reuter-Allee, and the Elbuferpromenade. The municipal utility company, Städtische Werke Magdeburg, is responsible for the installation, maintenance, and cleanliness of these water points, which operate seasonally from March to October.

In Halle, three public drinking fountains are currently operational on the market square, at Steintor, and on Peißnitz Island. These were gradually installed starting in 2022 as part of the city's climate adaptation and quality of life initiatives. Similar to Magdeburg, the local utility company manages these seasonal dispensers.

Dessau-Roßlau aims to add more fountains but faces budget constraints, hoping for external funding or donations. Zeitz, in the Burgenlandkreis district, has two fountains operational since 2024 and 2025, managed by local utility partners. Haldensleben also recently gained a public water dispenser in October 2024. In all these cities, the water quality is regularly monitored by health and veterinary authorities to ensure it is safe for consumption.

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When expanding the public network of drinking water dispensers, we want to regularly involve the citizens of Magdeburg in prioritizing the next locations.