The heat is on
It is hot in Europe. Very hot. And the summer has only just begun.
The recent heat wave in large parts of Europe reminds us that the forthcoming European framework for climate resilience and risk assessment comes with high stakes: it is about the safety of populations and the competitiveness of the European economy.
Over the past couple of weeks, agriculture and livestock farming were severely affected in large parts of Europe; homes were unlivable; public transport was struggling; energy infrastructure was challenged; classrooms and exam rooms were overheating; schools closed; sports events and cultural activities were cancelled…for many people there was a clear impact on their work life and daily routines.
Although there is both knowledge and tools at our disposal to put adaptation policies into practice, the heat wave exposed a lack of anticipation in Europe. At both the national and the local level, there will be lessons learnt about the actions and decisions which were effective, and those not to repeat.
While many adaptation measures are planned and, above all, implemented by Member State and local authorities, the impact is Europe-wide. A European framework will support greater preparedness. First and foremost, establishing a common reference warming trajectory would provide a shared baseline. On this basis, the concept of “resilience by design” must become operational in EU funding programs, ensuring that every euro of European public money effectively contributes to the continent’s adaptation. Finally, some issues are European by nature—such as the EU Civil Protection Mechanism (rescEU) or certain cross-border infrastructure projects—and therefore require an adaptation strategy designed directly at EU level.
The climate has already changed and will continue to do so. This must be incorporated into every public—and private—decision-making process going forward. In a few years, the recent heat wave may well be the new summer norm. By then, emergency responses and last-minute measures can no longer be the norm.
