Germany is experiencing record low water levels on the Rhine and other areas, highlighting the impacts of climate change. As of 2026, there have been 12,500 heat-related deaths, and temperatures across Western Europe have reached unprecedented levels. Lars Werner, a member of the climate activist group 'Last Generation,' stated that the Rhine's drying was predictable and would significantly affect the economy. This summer has seen evacuations due to forest fires, expected losses of 3 million metric tons of grain and rapeseed for farmers, and health risks for vulnerable populations in non-air-conditioned facilities.
Despite these challenges, the federal government has not convened a 'heat summit' to address the crisis. Werner criticized the government's approach, suggesting that it is insufficient and focused on short-term solutions rather than comprehensive climate policies. The 'Fridays for Future' movement, which has taken over the role of climate activism, has also expressed frustration with the government's lack of effective climate action. Spokesperson Linda Kastrup noted that while public concern about climate change is high, with 80% of Germans worried and over 50% wanting increased government spending on climate protection, this has not translated into widespread protests.
Recent studies indicate a shift in public focus, with issues like the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine overshadowing climate concerns. Political science researcher Sebastian Haunss remarked on the surprising lack of protests despite the severe summer conditions, attributing it to a divided political landscape and competing priorities. German Environment Minister Carsten Schneider has proposed constitutional amendments to make heat protection a shared responsibility among various government levels, but this plan faces skepticism from coalition partners.