Cooling became one of the key topics in the annual address by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to the European Parliament. In her speech, she proposed developing a European Heat Action Plan to help the continent cope with growing climate challenges.
The EU leader recalled the consequences of this summer’s period of abnormal heat:
- 660,000 hectares of land were scorched;
- around 12 million tons of crops were lost;
- more than 35,000 additional deaths were recorded.
According to her, Europe is warming at twice the global average rate, so it is necessary to both cut emissions and strengthen adaptation measures to achieve climate resilience.
Von der Leyen said that as early as next month a new climate resilience framework will be presented. It is expected to:
- identify the 100 most vulnerable European territories;
- carry out a risk assessment;
- define the governance levels for managing them.
The EU President paid special attention to the prospects for European leadership in the fast-growing market for adaptation technologies, including:
- energy-efficient air conditioning ❄️;
- drought-resistant crops;
- flood protection.
She also announced the imminent adoption of a European Heat Action Plan, which will include:
- improving early warning systems;
- healthcare preparedness 🏥;
- urban adaptation;
- support for the most vulnerable population groups.