Climate change: Greenpeace estimates damages of 36 billion euros in Germany due to heat summer

According to the report by Greenpeace, the summer of 2022, with its heatwaves, inflicted economic damages of at least 36 billion euros in Germany. The environmental organization stated that this amount corresponds to roughly one percent of the gross domestic product.

Among the causes for the high damages are crop failures, low river levels affecting inland shipping, and forest fires. These factors have led to significant productivity losses, according to Greenpeace's estimates.

Greenpeace emphasizes that the true costs of the heatwaves could be even higher. Consequently, the estimated sum of 36 billion euros may increase further.

The environmental organization announced that there are already several studies on the follow-up costs of the heat. These studies illustrate the far-reaching effects of climate change on the economy.

Forest fires and disrupted agricultural production also affect the quality and prices of agricultural products.

Greenpeace's estimates underscore the presence and urgency of the issues arising from climate change. The organization calls for measures to combat and adapt to the consequences of climate change.