"German Industry Adapts to Drying Rhine River, Shifts Strategy"
German industry is facing disruptions in transportation as low water levels on the Rhine river, a major commercial artery, become more frequent due to climate change. The Rhine is crucial for inland shipping of goods, but extended periods of low water levels have limited the capacity of cargo vessels. Companies like Covestro and BASF have resorted to chartering low-water barges to maintain their supply chains. The impact of low water levels extends beyond big businesses, with the German economy experiencing a decline in GDP and industrial production during previous dry spells. While logistics firms are benefiting from rising demand for vessels adapted to lower river levels, the lack of capacity, infrastructure, and personnel for alternative transportation options remains a challenge for the industry.