idw – Informationsdienst Wissenschaft
Nachrichten, Termine, Experten
Nachrichten, Termine, Experten
To mark today’s Global Heat Action Day, the Association of German Engineers (VDI) is highlighting the urgent need for structured preventive measures against extreme heat. With the recent publication of its full expert recommendation series on heat action planning (VDI-EE 3787 parts 13.1 to 13.3), the VDI is, for the first time, providing a harmonizedframework. This new standard offers concrete support to municipalities, public authorities, and experts to prepare for heatwaves and protect public health.
Extreme heat events are among the most severe consequences of climate change on human health. Forecasts from the German Weather Service (DWD) and international climate agencies predict that heatwaves in Europe as well as in Germany and will become more frequent, last longer, and grow in intensity. Older people, individuals with chronic health conditions, pregnant women, young children, and those who are socially isolated or dependent on care are especially at risk.
Standardized heat protection measures for local authorities – for the first time
The VDI’s expert recommendations build upon the 2017 guidelines issued by the Federal/State Ad-hoc Working Group on Health Adaptation to Climate Change. They translate those into a practical, interdisciplinary framework for action. Innovative tools such as a decision matrix based on the DWD’s multi-level heat warning system make it possible —for the first time— to implement standardized and transferable measures for municipal heat protection throughout Germany.
Overview of the three-part VDI recommendation:
- VDI-EE 3787 part 13.1 outlines the organizational foundations of a heat action plan: responsibilities, coordination structures, communication strategies, monitoring, and the use of official heat warnings.
- VDI-EE 3787 part 13.2 focuses on vulnerable population groups. It provides guidance on identifying, addressing, and protecting these groups, and offers advice on intersectoral collaboration in the health and social care systems.
- VDI-EE 3787 part 13.3 addresses short and medium-term measures to reduce indoor heat and long-term solutions in the field of urban planning and construction.
“Heat protection is preventive disaster management,” says Dr. Thomas Griebe, Chair of the VDI Committee on Heat Action Planning and Head of Environmental Protection for the City of Duisburg. “Implementing this shared responsibility requires coordinated action across social, health, environmental, and crisis management sectors. Our VDI recommendations close an existing gap and provide municipalities with a reliable roadmap.”
All three expert recommendations are now available.
Dr. Andreas Rutz
Phone: +49 211 6214-243
Email: andreas.rutz@vdi.de
http://www.vdi.de/3787 More info
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