Overcoming Global Problems through Local Cooperation: The Case of the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality - Climate Change Adaptation and Its Impact on Vulnerable Groups: Berlin Municipality Case Study

Introduction

“Climate Change Adaptation and Its Impact on Vulnerable Groups: Berlin Municipality Case Study” is the second report to emerge from the three-stage joint project “Overcoming Global Problems through Local Cooperation: The Case of the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality,” conducted by the Economic Development Foundation (IKV), Istanbul Policy Center (IPC), and the Economic Policy Research Foundation of Turkey (TEPAV). The report includes an in-depth inventory of the Berlin Municipality’s current policies to adapt to climate change, the best practices carried out by the municipality in this context, and the measures to be taken. It addresses governance challenges in implementing climate change policies and the protection of vulnerable groups in the city (refugees, women, children, and those living below the poverty line). In this framework, the research team focused on Berlin’s local climate action plans and the effects of climate change on vulnerable groups (especially women and refugees) living in Berlin. The research team employed qualitative research methods, conducting an extensive literature review of international, national, and local research and news articles on climate change and vulnerability. 

Conclusion

This report aims to examine the relationship between climate change and vulnerable groups in Berlin. The report was prepared by a joint research team from IKV, IPC and TEPAV. The research team conducted a literature review. While this report focuses on the relationship between climate change and vulnerable groups, it also examines the legal and institutional procedures related to climate change in both Germany and Berlin. The report analyses the impact of climate change and the emerging problems of vulnerable groups in Berlin. The global climate crisis has created an environment of insecurity, especially for vulnerable groups, in many parts of the world. Cities are one of the major causes of climate change, as urban activities are significant producers of greenhouse gas emissions. According to estimates, cities produce 70% of the global greenhouse gas emissions, with transportation and construction as two of the biggest sources. Therefore, more efforts are needed to eliminate the vulnerabilities of individuals in cities and increase their resilience. Success can only be attained through implementing a coordinated strategy and efforts at the global, regional, national, and local levels. Making cities a vital component of the solution to combating climate change is therefore essential. Urban residents can make their voices heard through local representatives and contribute to decision-making processes. In this way, they will be able to convey the problems they face to the relevant authorities and have a say in the decisions taken for the region.