Rising Expenses Due to Global Warming

In the face of global warming, the state of Baden-Württemberg is taking bold steps to adapt and mitigate the impacts of climate change. Minister Thekla Walker has emphasised the need to address not only the expansion of climate protection measures, but also the consequences of the already strong temperature increase.

The state government has analysed the impacts of heat, drought, heavy rain, and other extreme events, as well as the change in natural habitats and species. This comprehensive analysis has led to the derivation of 101 measures aimed at creating a climate-friendly and resilient future for Baden-Württemberg.

By 2026, all districts and municipalities will have been analysed in detail, enabling them to identify and implement measures to prevent a drinking water deficit. The funding for the implementation of water supply measures has been increased significantly, from 40 million euros in 2025 to almost 88 million euros for the year 2026.

Urban planning in Baden-Württemberg aims to protect citizens from heat, with measures being taken to promote the development of hydrogen infrastructure, including storage and power-to-gas technologies. Sector-crossing flexibilities are also being integrated to enhance supply security.

The state is subjecting communal water suppliers to a climate check with a master plan for water supply, ensuring that essential services are resilient to climate change.

Agriculture is also a key focus area, with measures being developed to deliver good yields under different climatic conditions. However, the significantly decreasing total acidity in viticulture is affecting the quality of Riesling, highlighting the need for targeted interventions in specific sectors.

The state invests more than 135 million euros per year for flood protection and water ecology. Unfortunately, groundwater levels and spring flows are declining, leading to restrictions on inland navigation due to low water levels. The snow cover in the Northern Black Forest is no longer sufficient for winter sports tourism.

More frequent and longer heat events are leading to urban heat stress and fewer cool days in Baden-Württemberg. Soil water reserves in agricultural soils are decreasing, and the risk of forest fires is increasing in forests. The number of earthworms in Baden-Württemberg has been continuously decreasing due to drier summers, with an average halving at the sites between 2011 and 2023.

The water temperature in Lake Constance has significantly increased, leading to poor mixing and decreasing oxygen levels in deep water. Agricultural pests like the green rice leafhopper are spreading with the warmer conditions, and many forests in Baden-Württemberg are weakened by drought and less resistant to pests like the bark beetle. The growth of wood has decreased in all considered tree species from 2012 to 2022.

Adapting to climate change is part of the public responsibility in Baden-Württemberg. More than half of the 101 adaptation measures have already been integrated as permanent tasks into the actions of public authorities in the state. The state government is committed to a sustainable and resilient future for all its citizens.