Former Federal Health Minister and SPD representative Karl Lauterbach is calling for immediate action in response to nearly 10,000 heat-related deaths this year, stating to the “Rheinische Post” that “it now depends on saving what can still be saved,” emphasizing that thousands of lives are at risk.
He argued that proven concepts which could be implemented quickly must be rolled out across the entire region. These include introducing heat portals where people can obtain information about heat risks and countermeasures. Additionally, hotlines should be established to specifically check in on vulnerable individuals to determine if they are drinking enough or if they are experiencing medical problems, citing Cologne as an example of a city that has already gained positive experience with this approach. Other suggested measures include setting up water spray systems or cooling rooms where citizens can quickly cool down.
Looking ahead to the coming years, Lauterbach continued, “We will receive such heatwaves quite regularly-which is why we must fundamentally redesign our cities in the long term.” He stressed the need to de-pave areas and increase green coverage significantly. Furthermore, the public must be informed that investing in air conditioning units for families and elderly people is crucial, noting that the benefits of these units far outweigh the relatively low CO2 emissions they generate.
