Green instead of gray: a climate upgrade for Trier in the sign of the frame

Green instead of gray: a climate upgrade for Trier in the sign of the frame

In the current discussion about climate -friendly urban development, the ideas of the Dutch, known as "tegrels", are increasingly being considered. These measures that aim to replace sealed areas in cities with green areas could also be important for the Rhineland-Palatinate city of Trier. Experts urgently demand changes to meet the challenges of climate change.

climate change and urban development

The urban climatologist Sascha Henninger from the RPTU in Kaiserslautern emphasizes the need to react to the climate changes. Rising temperatures and heavy rain events are not only a local, but a nationwide problem. Sealed areas in the city center of Trier contribute to overheating and slow down the seepage of rainwater. The consequences are often overloaded sewerings and a falling groundwater level.

potential of greening

According to Henninger, the solution lies in the greening of urban rooms. It sees a clear connection between an increased number of trees and the creation of shady and cool places. "More trees, more shade, more water" describes his vision for a climate -adapted city design. Such measures could increase the quality of life of the residents and mitigate the negative effects of climate change.

The design of the city center

Trier could specifically benefit from the idea of converting empty department stores into green areas. Henninger suggests using these large areas to create space for plants and relaxation rooms, which not only improves the city climate, but also creates meeting places for the citizens. But the economic pressure that real estate owners feel through high rents often stands in the way.

The way to promote removal measures

Another option to improve urban climate adjustment is to remove paving stones on private land. Many citizens are not aware that they can apply for funding from KfW Bank for such measures. In addition, rain barrels in the home garden could help to catch water for irrigation of plants.

collaboration between city and citizens

An important point in the discussion is the need to encourage both the government and citizens to participate. Facilities such as drinking water dispensers, tensioning sun sails and greening of facades are the first steps that many cities have already started. These steps are not only useful, but also necessary to make a sustainable and livable city.

conclusion: more green for Trier

If Trier is based on the existing challenges and put the ideas of the Dutch into practice, the city could become an example of environmentally friendly urban development. "We should have started much earlier," says Henninger, underlining the importance of a proactive approach to create climate oases that benefit the citizens. The path to a downtown livable is a joint project that demands both vision and action.

- Nag