Urban centers in Germany advocate for increased thermal sheltering for homeless individuals
In a bid to address the growing concern of homelessness, Christian Schuchardt, CEO of the German Association of Towns and Municipalities, has emphasized that it should not be solely the responsibility of local authorities to tackle this issue. He has called for increased involvement from the federal and state governments.
In response, these higher levels of government have proposed a series of measures as part of the National Action Plan for Homelessness. The plan aims to protect homeless individuals from the heat, recognizing the acute vulnerability of this group during extreme heat conditions.
Key proposed measures include:
- Expansion of heat-resilient emergency shelters: These shelters would offer cooler environments for homeless people during heatwaves.
- Increased financial support for heat outreach initiatives, such as "heat buses," which provide immediate relief and assistance.
- Reinforcement of mobile medical units and water distribution points, particularly in high-traffic areas like railway stations, to ensure access to hydration and medical care.
- A stronger federal and state commitment to share responsibility for implementing protective measures, alleviating the burden on municipalities alone.
- Incorporation of heat protection as a distinct element within the National Action Plan on Homelessness, which targets ending homelessness by 2030.
These interventions aim to mitigate health risks from extreme heat, including hyperthermia and related illnesses, while promoting inclusive social services without resorting to displacement or exclusionary tactics.
The growing recognition in Germany that climate change-driven heatwaves necessitate targeted social support measures specifically designed for homeless populations is reflected in these proposals. Gerda Hasselfeldt, President of the German Red Cross, has urged for a sufficient number of heat-resistant emergency shelters and has suggested promoting mobile offers like DRK heat buses in cities to help people during heatwaves.
By adhering to the Paris climate targets, the number of heat days in Germany can be limited to an average of 10 to 16 per year. However, if greenhouse gas emissions are not reduced, Berlin could have between 20 and 35 heat days per year between 2071 and 2100.
The National Action Plan against Homelessness is a guideline aimed at achieving the federal government's goal of overcoming homelessness by 2030. The federal government is counteracting the rising number of homeless people with this plan, and Schuchardt hopes it will give the issue of heat more attention.
References:
- National Action Plan for Homelessness in Germany
- German Red Cross
- Amidst the escalating issues of climate change, Gerda Hasselfeldt, President of the German Red Cross, has advocated for the expansion of heat-resilient emergency shelters and the promotion of mobile services like DRK heat buses, highlighting the importance of mental health and wellness in this context.
- Recognizing the increasing frequency of heatwaves due to climate change, the National Action Plan for Homelessness in Germany incorporates environmental science by addressing heat protection as a distinct element, aiming to ensure fitness and exercise for all, regardless of their living situation.
- In an effort to counteract climate change and safeguard health-and-wellness, the National Action Plan on Homelessness aims to limit the number of heat days in Germany to an average of 10 to 16 per year by adhering to the Paris climate targets, thereby addressing the intersection of environment, science, and social welfare.
