Germany’s Green Party is advocating for a national initiative to improve access to natural swimming areas in lakes and rivers, citing increasingly frequent heat waves and extreme weather events linked to climate change. Julia Verlinden, deputy parliamentary group leader, emphasized the need for political action to provide cooling options for citizens during periods of intense heat, while prioritizing environmental and nature conservation.
The proposal centers on providing financial support to local municipalities to enhance water quality monitoring and improve safety measures at potential swimming locations. The Green Party argues that developing natural swimming areas can supplement existing public swimming pools, highlighting the potential of underutilized waterways and canals within cities and towns.
Currently, swimming in natural bodies of water can pose risks related to both safety and water quality. Access to these locations can also be limited. The party is therefore proposing a federal program dedicated to regular water quality testing and oversight in lakes and rivers. Verlinden cited examples from cities like Paris and Berlin’s existing water monitoring systems as models for this initiative.
The proposal also prioritizes accessibility, specifically aiming to improve barrier-free access to swimming areas for elderly individuals and people with disabilities. Verlinden underscored the importance of providing relief during heat waves, stating that “a refreshing swim is one of the best ways to cope with temperatures exceeding 30 degrees Celsius”.