France swelters as heatwave grips nation, sparking climate concerns

France is grappling with an unprecedented heatwave that has affected all regions of the country, with 16 departments on red heat alert and 68 others under an orange rating. As temperatures soar above 40 degrees Celsius in some areas, hundreds of schools have closed, and emergency measures are in place. The extreme weather, attributed to a 'heat dome' trapping hot air over Europe, is challenging both urban and rural communities. In Paris, authorities are implementing strategies to create a cooler future, including increasing green spaces and adapting historic buildings. Meanwhile, organic farmers like Aline Aurias are struggling to maintain productivity amidst increasingly unpredictable weather patterns.
Despite previous commitments to environmental causes, French President Emmanuel Macron has recently scaled back some of the country's climate goals, sparking criticism from green activists. As the heatwave highlights the urgent need for climate action, debates continue over balancing ecological policies with economic concerns. The situation underscores the growing impact of climate change on daily life and the complexities of implementing effective environmental strategies.

Al Jazeera's Natacha Butler reports from Paris, France.

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