Climate change/adaptation
Fluctuations in the Earth's climate are not unusual; they have always occurred in the Earth's history. The history of the climate spans around four billion years, in which the current situation only represents a momentary record. However, it is undoubtedly proven that humans have a significant influence on this process. The burning of fossil fuels to generate energy on a large scale is causing faster warming than at any other time since the end of the last ice age and thus the beginning of the Holocene around 11,700 years ago.
Consequences of climate change
The consequences triggered by climate change are far-reaching due to the interrelationships in our environment. If one component of the environment is significantly impaired, for example urban and forest trees that lose vitality or even die due to heat and storm events, this has an impact on other components of the environment. In this example, the death of trees means that there is a lack of important habitats for insects and birds, for example. Humans are also part of this dynamic. In the example, the loss of trees results in a lack of shade, which increases the heat load on people in summer.
Every component of our environment is therefore important and worth protecting because it fulfils a task that contributes to the overall function of the environment. Climate adaptation must therefore take place in various areas and must take into account the interactions within the environment.
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Further information
Heat and drought
The average annual temperature in Chemnitz is rising year after year. In addition to the health burden caused by prolonged periods of heat, the water balance is also disturbed. A lack of precipitation and strong heat-related evaporation lead to dryness and drought. You can find tips on dealing with extreme heat, cooling and drinking places on the heat portal of the city of Chemnitz.
Nature in transition
Heat, drought and lack of water lead to drastic changes in natural habitats. These include a lack of food, the entry of pollutants, dried-up spawning waters and an increased incidence of diseases. While warmth-loving species continue to spread, a decline in moisture-loving species can be observed.
Water - curse and blessing
A lack of precipitation and increased evaporation, especially from April to June, lead to drought and soil drought. Low water levels occur in rivers. Combined with high water temperatures and high nutrient inputs after heavy rainfall, the ecological status of water bodies is affected. This in turn leads to increased expenditure on drinking water treatment, among other things. While there is a shortage of water on the one hand, the risk of flooding due to sudden heavy rainfall is increasing on the other.
Soil loss
Parched soils can only absorb and store water poorly. As a result, long-awaited rainfall is often unable to provide any relief and runs off unhindered, causing severe soil erosion. As the soil is eroded, valuable nutrients are lost and washed into watercourses and sewers with the rain.
Climate adaptation in Chemnitz
The consequences of climate change can also be felt in Chemnitz, for example in the form of summer heatwaves and heavy rainfall events. The "Climate change and climate impacts" study commissioned in 2009 analyses the changes in long-term statistical climate data. The study also derives forecasts of future climate development and discusses climate impacts and necessary adaptation measures, particularly in the areas of agriculture, forestry and water management.
In order to counteract the long-term consequences of climate change, the city of Chemnitz has been regularly developing a climate adaptation programme since 2017. This includes adaptation measures in areas such as urban planning, mobility, open spaces, water management, health and public relations. In addition to the greening of buildings and the protection of green spaces, this also includes how the city can successfully deal with heavy rainfall or inform citizens about health risks, for example.
