Greens leader Felix Banaszak has backed the demand put forward by the German Cities Association to embed heat protection and climate adaptation as collective responsibilities within the Basic Law. This, he argues, would offer a stronger form of support to local communities.
Speaking to RTL and ntv, Banaszak stated, “In that sense, I am definitely open to it.” He stressed that the federal government has a responsibility to truly fund and facilitate climate adaptation efforts. However, he noted that changing the constitution is complex, requiring a two-thirds majority. Furthermore, the federal government must first acknowledge that the issue is a significant problem in the first place-a realization he feels is currently missing.
This criticism comes as the municipal sector feels underserved. During the heatwave in June, Environment Minister Schneider only informed the local communities that they could fund certain measures using the special fund. Banaszak pointed out that while municipalities are aware of the special fund, they know that this amount will not be enough.
