Proposal requested for a protective directive concerning workers from radiation hazards, specifically ionizing radiation, by the Commission.
In the heart of Wiesbaden, a city known for its vibrant atmosphere, a redesign is underway with a clear goal - to improve the city's livability during hot summer days. The central place is being transformed into a more welcoming and comfortable urban space, with a focus on enhancing the quality of life for its residents and visitors [1].
One of the key features of this transformation is the innovative PlayFountain water playground, now installed in the city center. This interactive installation offers visitors refreshing water jets, controlled electronically to cool down passers-by, providing a much-needed respite from the summer heat. The PlayFountain also includes shaded areas with parasols, deckchairs, and facilities to ensure visitor comfort, making it a direct response to public feedback [1].
This water playground is not just a fun addition to the cityscape, but it also contributes to climate adaptation by providing a dynamic and engaging cooling spot usable by all ages during hot periods. The PlayFountain is part of Wiesbaden's Environmental Office's green measures and cooling spots initiative for urban climate adaptation [1][2].
While discussions about green urban measures like green roofs contributing to sustainable housing and urban climate mitigation are common in Germany, Wiesbaden's Environmental Office's focus, as of the available information, appears to be on the PlayFountain initiative as an active cooling spot for the urban population during heatwaves [1][2].
Apart from the PlayFountain, other green initiatives are being implemented in Wiesbaden. For instance, the main square is being redesigned to increase living quality in hot times, and new trees, robust, drought-resistant, and ecologically valuable, are being planted as part of the project "Trees in the desert" [1]. These trees are expected to provide shade and measurably contribute to cooling the surroundings in a few years.
Moreover, the new tree islands at the main station aim to promote biodiversity and enhance the quality of stay. These tree islands will provide shade and cooling during the summer heat, making them a valuable addition to the city's green infrastructure [1].
The city's commitment to climate adaptation and urban greening is further evident in upcoming events. A city climate walk is scheduled for August 11 to learn more about natural cooling processes, and a climate dialogue will take place on the main square of Wiesbaden on August 12. This dialogue aims to discuss urban climate, climate adaptation, green measures, and cool spots in Wiesbaden [1].
The integration of green spaces gains importance as it gets increasingly hot, and Wiesbaden is taking steps to ensure a greener and cooler future for its residents and visitors. The city's initiatives demonstrate a commitment to providing a comfortable and sustainable urban environment, especially during hot times [1].
[1] Source: Environmental Office in Wiesbaden's official website [2] Source: Local news articles on Wiesbaden's PlayFountain initiative
- The PlayFountain water playground, a part of Wiesbaden's environmental initiatives, serves as an active cooling spot for the urban population during heatwaves, contributing to climate adaptation and aligning with the field of environmental science.
- Aside from the PlayFountain, the city is implementing other green measures such as redesigning the main square and planting drought-resistant trees as part of the "Trees in the desert" project, which are expected to enhance the city's environment and lifestyle by providing shade and cooler surroundings.
- The city's commitment to combating climate change extends beyond the PlayFountain, as it organizes events like the city climate walk and a climate dialogue on the main square, aiming to educate residents and visitors about urban climate, climate adaptation, and the importance of green spaces in home-and-garden settings for a sustainable urban lifestyle.
