Why are climate impact adaptation measures already relevant today?

Here, too, an increasing number of heavy rainfall events are to be expected, which occur everywhere in the country and can then lead to corresponding flooding and inundation at the place where they fall. In the region, this was the case in Münster in 2014. Furthermore, heat problems, especially in city centres, as well as increased periods of drought are a problem. It can be assumed that as climate change progresses, extremely dry phases will alternate with extremely wet phases. Both extremes must be dealt with in the best possible way.

The first place to start adapting to climate change is your own garden and house. A lot can be achieved here even with small measures:

Lots of greenery: greenery and planting generally lead to an improvement in the microclimate. This means that the temperature around the building rises less than with grey or dark, sealed surfaces. In addition, a varied green design with flowers and shrubs promotes biodiversity in the garden - because it provides insects with a necessary habitat that is sometimes in short supply.

Ponds: Ponds are also useful, as evaporation has a cooling effect on the surrounding area and thus on one's own garden.

Shade trees or canopies for individual sections to further improve the quality of stay and reduce heat.

No or few sealed surfaces: A garden that is loosened up and has little sealing offers the possibility of collecting rainwater or allowing it to seep away. Times of heavy rainfall can also be buffered in this way and so-called "wild surface water run-off" can be prevented.

Use rain barrels or cisterns: This way, rainwater can be used to water the plants. This reduces water consumption. In addition, it does not have to be fed into the sewage system, which in turn reduces wastewater charges. In some cases, there are municipal subsidy programmes for this.

At best, trees should be planted in such a way that they cannot fall on the house in later storm events and thus cause damage. Precipitation water should be infiltrated or stored, but in any case directed away from the building. The building should always be secured against surface water penetrating from the outside, this is especially true on slopes. Cellar shafts should be secured and it is advisable not to build ground-level entrances. To prevent the building from heating up too much in summer, there are various shading elements.

Tip: The district of Borken has compiled more information on how to protect yourself and your house from heavy rain and floods in clear brochures. The city of Oelde has also published a flyer on this topic.