In response to intensifying heatwaves, there is an urgent need for action, particularly regarding vulnerable populations, according to a survey conducted by the research institute Forsa for the “Trendbarometer” broadcast by RTL and ntv.
The findings reveal widespread support for implementing air conditioning or other cooling technologies in care facilities. Ninety-five percent of respondents believe this technology is urgently needed in hospitals, while 92 percent feel the same way about nursing and care homes. Support is also significant for schools, with 78 percent of people agreeing that cooling measures are necessary there. However, the priority drops notably when considering government offices and authorities, where only 37 percent deem cooling technology to be critically necessary.
Interestingly, there is a notable level of consensus on this issue across different regions and political lines. In Eastern Germany, 96 percent consider cooling essential in hospitals and nursing homes, compared to 94 percent and 91 percent, respectively, in the West. Politically, support varies: supporters of the AfD report figures of 92 percent for hospitals and 89 percent for care homes, while supporters of the Left party show the highest levels of concern at 99 percent and 97 percent.
These trends reflect a growing reality, as heatwaves are becoming stronger and more probable due to global warming. This effect will continue to be reinforced as long as additional greenhouse gases, such as those released from burning coal, oil, and gas, are introduced into the atmosphere.
