Overview
- Berlin’s parliament approved the Klimaanpassungsgesetz in a special session with backing from CDU, SPD, Greens and Linke, while the AfD abstained, and the law takes effect upon publication.
- Street‑tree rules require an average of one tree every 15 meters on each side of suitable streets, with a three‑for‑one replanting obligation starting in May 2026.
- The law mandates designation of roughly 170 heat‑vulnerable districts, a targeted two‑degree cooling through greening and de‑sealing, and creation of accessible cooling islands alongside stronger rainwater management.
- Implementation is costed at about €3.2 billion to 2040, with roughly €2 billion planned from Berlin’s share of the federal special fund, drawing criticism from business groups and some political figures over spending priorities.
- Compliance will be monitored by a scientific advisory body, immediate consideration of climate‑adaptation goals in administrative decisions is required, and near‑term milestones include staffing and heat‑district designation within the next year.