Internet platform "Climate change and climate protection in the agricultural sector" | Umweltbundesamt

Information on climate projections/scenarios from the German Climate Atlas produced by the German Meteorological Office (DWD), the regional climate offices of the Helmholtz Society and the Climate Service Center 2.0.

Climate change is particularly linked to higher temperatures, with the largest increases observed at higher latitudes and higher altitudes. These involve changes in chronological and regional temperature and precipitation distribution. There is also a higher CO2 content in the atmosphere and rising sea levels. Particularly important for agriculture and forestry is the increase in extreme events such as heat and drought, as well as storms, heavy rain and hail events.

Climate adaptation is a social responsibility and all stakeholders from business, academia, research, administration, education and politics have to make their contribution. The authorities have the task of putting in place and optimising the requirements for efficient adaptation and preventive planning, which will enable companies to make intelligent decisions leading to successful adaptation. The authorities need to be particularly involved in measures requiring greater forecasting, planning and cross-company action. This includes the research and education sector and measures for spatial and regional planning.

Meeting these adaptation requirements is particularly urgent for forestry because of the long production cycles but also in the areas of plant cultivation and spatial and regional planning. If the authorities put in place these requirements, we can assume that the affected companies will implement the necessary adaptation measures under their own steam. Appropriate adaptation measures can cut costs and bring competitive advantages. We can also assume that the market will react to climate change and provide additional impetus for adaptation.

A wide range of adaptation options in horticulture, plant cultivation, livestock management, forestry and fisheries are listed in the platform. Federal measures to support business in its adaptation process are also set out.