Overview
- Lawmakers approved the Klimaanpassungsgesetz without opposing votes from CDU, SPD, Greens and Left plus an independent, while the AfD abstained.
- The statute sets binding measures including street-tree spacing of roughly every 15 meters, stronger protection and care, 170 designated heat districts with cooling targets, rainwater management, and an independent scientific control council.
- Key deadlines include a 1:3 replanting requirement starting in May 2026 and expanded rights for residents to plant and tend tree pits by November 2027, with roughly 560,000 new trees needed to reach the target.
- Officials estimate about €3.2 billion over 15 years, with substantial financing expected from the federal Sondervermögen, drawing criticism from business and FDP figures who argue the money should prioritize infrastructure and growth; the AfD objected to the funding route.
- Parliament’s adoption removes the need for a referendum, and the law will take effect upon publication in the Amtsblatt in about two to three weeks with immediate duties to integrate climate adaptation into administrative decisions.