Bonn Launches 'KlimaResilient vor Ort' Project to Help Local Businesses Adapt to Climate Change

The city of Bonn is spearheading a new consulting initiative, "KlimaResilient vor Ort," to support local businesses in adapting to the increasing risks posed by climate change. Launching in June 2026 and running for eleven months, this project aims to identify climate-related risks such as heavy rainfall, flooding, and heatwaves, and develop tailored mitigation strategies for up to ten participating businesses.

The initiative is part of North Rhine-Westphalia’s funding program and employs the "KLIMA.PROFIT" consulting process with external experts to guide companies through workshops, risk profiling, and adaptation planning. By addressing issues like infrastructure vulnerabilities and employee heat stress, businesses can enhance resilience and reduce future costs from climate impacts.

This localized effort comes amid broader concerns about business crisis preparedness in Germany. A study by Freie Universität Berlin and partners found significant deficiencies in corporate readiness for crises, including extreme weather events. While many firms have IT security measures, only a small percentage have comprehensive emergency plans, especially for large firms and urban businesses. The study highlights the urgent need for proactive resilience strategies across sectors.

"Resilience is not an option but a survival strategy," emphasized Prof. Dr. Wenzel Matiaske, co-leader of the study. Bonn’s project offers a practical model for climate risk management and adaptation, encouraging companies to take preventive actions and collaborate with municipal authorities. Businesses interested in participating must register by June 14, 2026.