A recent study commissioned by the Federal Environment Agency (UBA) shows that the majority of German municipalities are actively working on climate adaptation measures. Of the 1,062 cities and municipalities surveyed, over 40 per cent have already implemented concrete steps to adapt to the climate crisis and almost 40 per cent are planning corresponding measures.
Since 1 July 2024, the new Climate Adaptation Act (KAnG) has provided the legal framework within which federal states and municipalities are to develop and implement climate adaptation strategies. Cities and municipalities play a central role in this, as they know the local conditions best. Nevertheless, many municipalities are confronted with personnel and financial challenges. According to the survey, 80 per cent of municipalities lack the human resources and 73 per cent the financial resources to consistently implement climate adaptation measures.
Federal Environment Minister Steffi Lemke is calling for more financial support to ensure the protection of health and infrastructure in the face of the climate crisis. Dirk Messner, President of the UBA, emphasises the need for long-term financial security for climate adaptation at municipal level.
You can find the full press release here.