Garbage collection now starts an hour earlier due to the heat!

Garbage collection now starts an hour earlier due to the heat!

The last few years have repeatedly set record temperatures in Germany, and the current heat wave is no exception. In North Rhine-Westphalia in particular, garbage collection is now being changed due to the extreme weather conditions. In many places, garbage collection begins at 6 a.m., an hour earlier than usual. The measure is considered necessary to protect employees from the health risks of extreme heat South Germans to report.

The risk of cardiovascular disease increases significantly when high temperatures meet heavy physical work. That's why cities like Dortmund and Cologne have decided to adjust their emptying rhythm during the summer months. In Herne and Gladbeck in particular, the early start regulation is used when temperatures exceed 30 degrees. This approach is supported by the Verdi union, which points out the need for protective measures.

Heat and Health – A Growing Problem

Statistics show that heat waves are increasing in Germany. Since the 1980s there has been a significant increase in both hot days and tropical nights. Studies by the Robert Koch Institute show that eight of the ten warmest summers since 1881 were recorded within the last three decades. The forecasts are alarming: by the end of the century, the number of heat waves could quadruple.

Vulnerable groups, including children, older people and the chronically ill, are particularly at risk. The health risks should not be underestimated. Heat can worsen existing diseases and lead to an increase in mortality. In view of these facts, the federal government is planning comprehensive measures to reduce heat-related health problems, and has been doing so since the introduction of the Climate Adaptation Act in July 2024.

Heat action plans: local responsibility

The responsibility for implementing heat action plans lies with the states and municipalities. The aim of these plans is to protect the population from hot periods. In 2017, comprehensive recommendations were developed by the federal and state governments for the creation of such plans. These proposals include numerous measures, including new urban design concepts and information campaigns to raise awareness.

• Maßnahmen im Hitzeaktionsplan:
• Stadtgestaltung und Bauleitplanung
• Verschattung und Stadtgrün
• Handlungsabläufe in Gesundheits- und Pflegeeinrichtungen
• Monitoring und Informationskampagnen

Early warnings from the German Weather Service are intended to help avoid health risks, while cities such as Mannheim and Dortmund have already developed their own heat action plans. It is clear that the challenges in implementing this measure are not small and sustainable financing is essential for long-term plans. So we can only hope that all municipalities take the necessary steps to protect the population as best as possible.