Heat challenge: Professor Groß is looking for solutions for Rinteln!

Heat challenge: Professor Groß is looking for solutions for Rinteln!

The summer heat is hard on us, especially in urban areas. Professor Dr. Günter Groß, former head of the Institute for Meteorology, Climatology and Environmental Meteorology at Leibniz University Hannover, has studied the urban climate intensively. Even in retirement, he remains active and prepares reports on hot spots in cities such as Mannheim and Heidelberg. When asked why urban temperatures are rising, he has a clear answer: Close developments and sealed areas not only lead to higher air temperatures, but also change wind and precipitation conditions. This is what our colleagues report SZLZ.

A look at thermals in cities shows that heat is not just a summer phenomenon, but also a serious challenge for young and old. Older people in particular are often no longer mobile enough to get to cooler areas. Gross suggests considering countermeasures such as greenery, shade, water and even fogging to lower temperatures and improve quality of life.

Measures for a better urban climate

But what exactly could you do? The Federal Environment Agency has a number of useful approaches that should ensure a better quality of life in our cities with a targeted plan. Strategies to improve the urban climate aim to reduce heat storage in the city and optimize the air exchange between the city center and the surrounding area. House greenery, the unsealing of areas and good thermal insulation play a particular role. These measures may at first glance have little impact on the city's climate, but in the long term they have a positive effect on the quality of life, according to the sources Federal Environment Agency.

Another innovative example from research is the urban climate model PALM-4U, which maps pollutants in the air and thus helps to combat high levels of pollution. This technology enables cities to develop and test targeted measures to specifically address heat hotspots and air pollution. Places with particularly high levels of pollution are often located on busy roads. There is a need for action here, you can find out all about this on the website DLR project sponsor.

The focus is on people

Professor Groß makes it clear that shade is crucial for lowering temperatures. One tree can reduce the air temperature by up to 4 degrees. As a practical measure, he also suggests parasols that can be set up quickly. At the same time, he notes the differences between Germany and Japan, where air conditioning has long been standard, while in this country it is still controversial.

In Germany, there is a long-term average of ten hot days per summer, and this trend will only increase with climate change. Hot temperatures are also not uncommon at night. However, this also comes with challenges such as heavy rain events, which occur on average three to four times per year. A rethinking of climate policy and active citizen participation are required in order to overcome these challenges together.

The seven-league boots that are necessary for a political change in climate and environmental policy can only be achieved together. Maybe the time is ripe for us to stay cooler together, even as temperatures rise.