Given the high temperatures and historically low river levels this summer, Britta Haßelmann, the leader of the Green faction, has urged the federal government to address the growing situations of extreme weather. Speaking to the television channel Phoenix, Haßelmann stressed that combating the climate crisis must now be central to the government’s actions. She noted that cities and communities are overwhelmed by the necessary preventative measures, stating that the funds currently available in the special budget are insufficient for these challenges.
Haßelmann emphasized the urgent need to protect people from the heat, especially in hospitals and elderly and care facilities, where she observed that preparations were inadequate. “They cannot manage this by themselves. That is why we need an immediate climate relief program,” she insisted.
For the Green faction chairperson, Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) is a figure of personal responsibility. She stated, “He has finally spoken about the climate change that must be addressed after weeks of silence. Now, it is essential that he follows those words with actions.” Furthermore, Haßelmann argued that the federal government must stop presenting climate protection and economic development as contradictory goals. “Climate, securing prosperity, and economic development must be conceived together,” she affirmed.
