Heat protection in NRW: Which cities are already active
Heat protection in NRW: Which cities are already active
dealing with heat: measures and initiatives in North Rhine-Westphalia
In times of increasing heat waves, heat protection is also becoming increasingly relevant in North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW). Although only a few cities have implemented a formal heat action plan so far, many municipalities have already implemented independent measures to protect their citizens. This article illuminates the current situation and the existing initiatives to combat heat problems.
existing initiatives and planning
Despite the still small number of heat action plans in North Rhine -Westphalia, there are already progress in different cities. Dortmund and Bielefeld have concretized their measures and are in implementation. Dortmund pursues a comprehensive plan that covers three main areas: the information and sensitization of the population, measures during acute heat waves, as well as long -term adjustments. These structured approaches are crucial to develop effective solutions.
Bielefeld has adopted a plan that supports particularly endangered groups in dealing with heat. The city has already started implementation and focuses primarily on public relations and training of childcare facilities. Such measures are particularly important to adequately protect vulnerable people, such as older people.
developments in other cities
in NRW are currently in development in 13 other cities. These cities include Aachen, Düsseldorf and Münster. In Münster in particular, in addition to the heat action plan, innovative measures are also being planned in order to identify public spaces as "cool places". This could significantly improve the quality of life during heat waves.
In Düsseldorf, a heat action planner approach is currently being followed, which also includes planting new trees to improve the city climate. This measure links environmental protection with the protection of health and shows a holistic approach to the problem.
heat protection without an official plan
The Ministry of Health has made it clear that the current state of a heat action plan does not reflect the entire heat protection of a municipality. In many cities, measures are already being taken to protect heat, even without a formal plan. This shows that awareness of the risks of heat waves is already anchored and a proactive attitude is taken in many municipalities.
information offers and assistance
Another characteristic of these efforts is the development of information portals and hotlines that will inform citizens about the correct handling of heat waves. Cities like Dortmund, Bielefeld and Krefeld have access to free drinking water fountain and also convey information about cool retreat. These actions are not only important for the general public, but also for groups in need of protection, such as homeless people.
long -term perspectives and recommendations for action
The creation of heat action plans in Germany is based on international guidelines that were published in 2008 by the World Health Organization (WHO). These include the need to take effective measures to reduce heat indoors and to protect risk groups. This requires continuous effort on the part of the municipalities to secure the health of the population even during extreme weather conditions.
FAZIT
Developments in NRW show that there is a growing awareness of the challenges of heat waves. Although formal heat action plans are still in the minority, many cities are already taking active steps to protect their citizens. This not only represents a reaction to current climatic changes, but could also promote cultural change in urban design and planning in the long term.