German Environment Minister Proposes Constitutional Change for Heat Protection

As Germany experiences record temperatures around 40 degrees Celsius, Federal Environment Minister Carsten Schneider of the SPD has proposed amending the Basic Law (Grundgesetz) to address heat protection. The proposal, which initially sounds appealing, has drawn criticism from the author, who argues that Schneider's approach would be a mistake. The article reflects on how the perception of a 'good summer' has shifted from one defined by prolonged sunshine and the ability to tan at local swimming spots to a recognition of the dangers of extreme heat. This year marks a turning point, with temperatures reaching 41.7 degrees Celsius during the day in Neißemünde-Coschen, Brandenburg, and 29.4 degrees Celsius at night in Saxony. The author suggests that Schneider's plan, while well-intentioned, may not effectively address the challenges posed by rising temperatures. The piece is published in the German newspaper 'der Freitag'.