Faced with rising temperatures, the German Association of Cities and Municipalities (DStGB) has called for what it describes as a “national effort regarding water supply and climate adaptation” within local communities. DStGB President Ralph Spiegler told the “Rheinische Post” that half of all districts and independent cities in Germany are already affected by either acute or structural groundwater stress. Consequently, Germany must begin treating water as a strategic resource.
While the provision of drinking water remains the absolute priority for municipalities, Spiegler cautioned that communities must also prepare for times when water availability may no longer be unlimited.
The economic consequences of periods of heat and drought are no longer abstract risks but current realities. Low water levels hinder shipping, and water scarcity places a heavy strain on agriculture, industry, and energy production. Furthermore, studies indicate that every hot day costs the economy between 430 and 984 million euros due to reduced productivity, thus jeopardizing growth, jobs, and overall prosperity, according to Spiegler.
The DStGB President stressed that local cities and municipalities cannot bear this burden alone. To address the crisis, he demanded the inclusion of a joint mandate for climate protection and adaptation within the Basic Law, thereby securing long-term and stable financial support from both the federal and state governments.
Heatwaves and droughts are becoming stronger and more probable due to global warming. This effect will continue to intensify as long as additional greenhouse gases-such as those released from burning coal, oil, and gas-are added to the atmosphere.
