Dear friends,
Across the European continent, temperature records have been broken. Last week’s heatwave has been a struggle for many of us. Climate change is no longer a distant warning. It has become part of our daily lives.
For years, Europe's climate debate has rightly focused on one overriding objective: Preventing the worst. And cutting emissions remains one of the most important tasks before us.
But there is another reality we can no longer ignore. Even if we do everything right from today onwards, Europe will continue to warm for years to come. That means climate policy can no longer be about mitigation alone. It must also be about adaptation.
What does that mean in practice?
It means designing cities that stay cooler instead of trapping heat. Planting more trees and creating more green spaces. Building homes and offices that can cope with extreme temperatures. Protecting vulnerable people and those whose jobs require them to work outdoors.
And yes, sometimes it also means using air conditioning, especially in schools, hospitals and care homes. The objective of climate policy is not to maximise discomfort. It is to protect both people and the planet. Modern cooling systems are far more efficient than they once were. Powered by renewable electricity, they can form part of a broader strategy to help societies adapt to a changing climate.
None of this weakens the case for climate action. Mitigation and adaptation are not alternatives, but partners. We need both.
As Brussels slowly empties for the summer and the political calendar begins to quieten, I hope you, too, can find some time to rest and recharge.
We'll be back after the summer break with fresh analyses on Europe.
Until then, stay safe, stay cool, and have a wonderful summer!
