Impacts of global warming or climatic shift - Specialist recommends boosting investments in climate adjustment for municipalities.
Urban climate expert Sascha Henninger encourages municipalities in Rhineland-Palatinate to boost investments in climate adaptation*. It's essential, he insists, not only to concentrate on climate defense but also to implement suitable adaptation strategies. The impact of climate change and its consequences is widespread. "It's high time to prepare for the reality that we need to respond to it."
Various cities in Rhineland-Palatinate, as pointed out by the German Environmental Aid (DUH), fail to adequately safeguard residents from summer heat. These towns fall short on greenery and have excessive sealed surface area, turning them into "heat purgatories," according to DUH's criticism in its nationwide heat assessment. The shift towards more concrete and less green is concerning.
Extensive list of actions
Henninger underscores that even if no additional CO2 enters the atmosphere, we'll still experience repercussions for an extended period due to the longevity of pre-existing greenhouse gases. "It's not enough to merely flip a switch, and everything will be alright. There's a time delay." Imperative steps include more greenery and water in urban areas, unsealing surfaces, and adding more cover. "The list of actions is considerable and should always be tailored to the specific locale."
As an urban climate expert, Henninger advises numerous municipalities and cities in Rhineland-Palatinate on climate-resilient design. In DUH's heat assessment, Ludwigshafen, Worms, and Mainz particularly faltered. "All three cities are distinguished by an extensive degree of sealing," Henninger stated. "Artificial construction materials like concrete absorb heat during the day and subsequently release it to the close-by air layer, primarily during nighttime and evening hours."
Another problem is the absence of shade, such as from trees. "If there are numerous sealed surfaces and little greenery, this effect can be even more pronounced, as there are no tree canopies to protect the surface from direct sunlight," Henninger clarified. Additionally, air circulation is restricted in several locations due to tall buildings in the city center.
In Ludwigshafen, Worms, and Mainz, the geographical location also impacts the issue. "All three, with their position in the Upper Rhine Plain, are already characterized by higher temperatures due to their climate, even without urban climate impact," the university professor elaborated. "The heat then seems even more intense for city dwellers."
Municipalities in Rhineland-Palatinate should consider Henninger's advice to boost investments in climate adaptation, as the expert advocates for both climate defense and suitable adaptation strategies. These measures are crucial in towns like Ludwigshafen, Worms, and Mainz, which, according to DUH's heat assessment, have high levels of sealed surfaces and lack adequate greenery, contributing to the urban heat island effect.
