Climate change strikes: 233 billion euros due to natural disasters!

Climate change strikes: 233 billion euros due to natural disasters!

In the face of natural hazards, it is becoming increasingly important to find out about the consequences of climate change and the associated damage. A current report by the overall association of the German Insurance Industry (GDV) illuminates the terrifying dimensions: In the past 50 years, the damage caused by natural disasters add up to over 230 billion euros. This corresponds to almost half of the federal budget for 2023, such as GDV

Jörg Asmussen, General Manager of the GDV, emphasizes that the economic challenges of climate change can no longer be ignored. The natural hazard report 2024 shows that the damage in 2023 alone pays 5.6 billion euros in property and car insurance. Flood events and other extreme weather conditions make it clear that we live in a nature that is no longer quite as stable.

Recognize and act the dangers

Under the focus of the topic "Water sensitivity of infrastructure, buildings and cities", the report warns that our society is insufficiently prepared for the accumulation of such events. Finanzwelt In a nutshell: Some extreme weather events, such as heavy rain and storms, are increasingly leading to enormous damage that could be at least twice as high by 2050. "Adaptation to new climate conditions is urgently necessary," says Asmussen.

Digitization comes into play here: The new GDV reports on an interactive statistics offer that offers detailed data on damage caused by storm, hail, lightning and other natural hazards. This data can be used not only for insurance companies, but also for research to develop better adaptation strategies. Anyone who is interested will find all the information and statistics on the GdV.

together strongly against natural dangers

The natural hazard report not only provides numbers, but also a conversation with climate researchers who discuss tilting points and the future challenges through climate change. The numbers are alarming, but they also offer an opportunity for cities to rethink their infrastructure and adapt them to the new climatic conditions. My Freizeit emphasizes that we all take responsibility together to counter the effects of climate change.

Overall, one thing is clear: the increasing natural hazards and their consequences are a topic that concerns us all. The GDV and other institutions are committed to ensuring that better strategies and information are available in order to avoid damage and to prepare for the inevitable changes in the best possible way. Each individual can contribute to being informed and willing to act sustainably.