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nature reclaimed
Nature reclaimed: How Germany is rediscovering its wilderness!
Imagine if you could witness nature flourishing once more in Germany. From restored rivers to green oases in cities, there are many successes to celebrate. But what challenges exist and how can you contribute yourself? Find out and contact us for more information!
The topic briefly and concisely
Germany's nature is experiencing a revitalisation through targeted renaturation projects aimed at increasing biodiversity and restoring habitats.
Projects like the Emscher Renaturation and the Peene Valley show that with long-term investments and strategic measures, compromised ecosystems can be successfully revitalised, which can lead to an improvement in the biodiversity index by up to 1.5 points.
The EU Biodiversity Strategy 2030 and the EU Restoration Regulation provide important frameworks and financial support to advance "nature reclaimed" in Germany and to significantly improve ecological health.
Discover how Germany is reclaiming nature despite its dense population! Learn more about exciting projects and the role of the EU Biodiversity Strategy.
Germany's natural landscapes are on the brink of a pivotal change, and restoration plays a crucial role in this. Despite dense settlement and intensive use, nature is experiencing a remarkable comeback, and the concept of "nature reclaimed" is gaining significance as awareness of the value of intact ecosystems grows. This article highlights the challenges and opportunities associated with restoration in Germany, showing how innovative projects and strategic initiatives contribute to promoting biodiversity and restoring habitats. Restoration is a vital step in restoring and securing the ecological health of our country for the long term, requiring commitment from politics, business, and civil society.
The challenge of biodiversity loss is immense and demands immediate action. The decline of insects, birds, and other animal species jeopardises the ecological balance, and it is crucial to reverse this trend. The EU Biodiversity Strategy 2030 serves as an important framework for national efforts to reverse this trend and protect biodiversity. The strategy calls for 30% of the EU's land and marine area to be protected by 2030, with 10% to be strictly protected. Achieving this goal requires comprehensive measures and close cooperation between politics, business, and civil society. Germany must intensify its efforts to meet the goals of the EU Biodiversity Strategy and stop the loss of biodiversity.
Restoration offers a promising solution for restoring ecological health and promoting biodiversity. It includes measures to revitalise rivers, create wetlands, and encourage natural succession on fallow land. Various projects in Germany show how successful these approaches can be. From the restoration of the Emscher to the creation of the Green Belt along the former inner-German border, there are numerous examples that inspire hope. These projects demonstrate that it is possible to reclaim nature even in densely populated areas and create valuable habitats. Further insights into the natural beauty of Germany can be found here. These successes show that targeted restoration measures can have positive environmental impacts.
However, to secure "nature reclaimed" in the long term, much effort is still required. It is essential to improve political frameworks, expand financial support, and raise public awareness of the importance of restoration. Only in this way can we sustainably protect nature in Germany and preserve its diverse functions for future generations. If you want to delve deeper into the topic of nature travel in Europe, we offer you comprehensive information. Increased public awareness is crucial to enhance acceptance and support for restoration projects and to be successful in the long term.
Emscher Renaturation: €5.5 billion investment for a flourishing ecosystem
The Emscher renaturation is an impressive example of how a previously heavily polluted river can become a thriving ecosystem. Over 30 years, €5.5 billion was invested to transform the Emscher from an open sewage channel into a river resembling its natural state. This project demonstrates that comprehensive and long-term measures are necessary to successfully renaturalise rivers and restore their ecological functions. The Emscher renaturation demonstrates that even heavily impaired rivers can be revitalised through targeted actions.
The technical aspects of the project include the construction and modernisation of sewage treatment plants and the relocation of sewage pipes underground. These measures stopped the discharge of untreated wastewater into the Emscher. Another significant step was the restoration of the natural river course to improve the water structure and create habitats for fish and other aquatic organisms. The return of the brown trout to the Emscher is a clear sign of the renaturation's success. Relocating sewage pipes underground was a crucial step to sustainably improve the Emscher’s water quality and lay the groundwork for the return of the brown trout.
The Emscher project highlights the necessity of a holistic approach that combines wastewater management with ecological engineering. It also shows that such projects require long-term investments to ensure sustainable ecological recovery. Thus, the renaturation of the Emscher serves as a model for other river renaturation projects in Germany and worldwide. If you are interested in further nature travels, you will find a variety of offers with us. A holistic approach that combines ecological engineering and wastewater management is crucial for the success of river renaturation projects. The Emscher renaturation serves as a blueprint for similar projects worldwide.
The "nature reclaims" through the Emscher renaturation is proof that even severely affected rivers can be revitalised when the political will and financial resources are available. This project should serve as an incentive to advance further renaturation projects in Germany and improve the ecological health of our rivers. The succession that takes place in such areas showcases nature's resilience. Political will and the provision of financial resources are essential to successfully implement renaturation projects and sustainably improve the ecological health of our rivers.
Peenetal: How agricultural land is being transformed into a 1,300-hectare bird paradise
The Peenetal, also known as the "Amazon of the North," is another remarkable example of "nature reclaimed". Through the conversion of agricultural land into wetlands, a paradise for birds is being created here. The Nature and Biodiversity Conservation Union (NABU) is already managing over 1,300 hectares and plans to expand this area further through land acquisition. The Peenetal is characterized by a diverse birdlife with over 160 species and a significant otter population. The transformation of agricultural land into wetlands in the Peenetal creates valuable habitats for a variety of bird species and other wildlife.
The strategic acquisition of land and the conversion of farmland into wetlands are crucial for promoting biodiversity. By creating wetlands, valuable habitats for numerous bird species that breed, rest, and overwinter here are established. The Peenetal project demonstrates that targeted measures have the potential to create significant wildlife reserves, particularly for bird species. The NABU plays a central role in this. The strategic acquisition of land and the creation of wetlands are key elements in promoting biodiversity in the Peenetal and establishing a significant wildlife reserve.
The Peenetal project is an example of how "nature reclaimed" can succeed through the creation of habitats for endangered animal species. It also shows that the collaboration between conservation organizations, farmers, and the local population is crucial for the successful implementation of such projects. The renaturation of the Peenetal is therefore an important contribution to the protection of biodiversity in Germany and a model for other renaturation projects. For bird-watching enthusiasts, we offer special bird-watching trips. The successful implementation of the Peenetal project is based on close cooperation between conservation organizations, farmers, and the local population.
The EU Biodiversity Strategy supports such projects by providing financial resources and political frameworks. The Peenetal benefits from these initiatives and contributes to achieving the goals of the strategy. The renaturation of the Peenetal is thus an important building block for the protection of biodiversity in Germany and Europe. The importance of forest edge areas for biodiversity is particularly evident here. The EU Biodiversity Strategy plays an important role in promoting renaturation projects like the Peenetal by providing financial support and political frameworks.
Lower Havel: €67 million for restoring river dynamics by 2033
The restoration of the Lower Havel aims to restore the ecological integrity of the Havel river system. This project includes the reconnection of river branches and the reestablishment of natural floodplains. Sixty-seven million euros are available for this project until 2033. Restoring the Lower Havel is an important contribution to "Nature Reclaimed" and to improving the ecological situation in the region. The restoration of the Lower Havel is a long-term project aimed at restoring the ecological integrity of the river system.
The restoration of hydrological connectivity and floodplains is crucial for the recovery of the river ecosystem. By reconnecting river branches, fish and other aquatic organisms can move freely and colonise new habitats. The reestablishment of natural floodplains allows the river to expand and deposit sediments, which improves water quality and creates habitats for plants and animals. The long investment periods and significant budget reflect the complexity and scope involved in restoring large river systems. Restoring hydrological connectivity and floodplains is crucial to improving the ecological health of the Havel river system and creating habitats for numerous species.
The restoration of the Lower Havel is an example of how "Nature Reclaimed" can succeed by reinstating natural processes. It also shows that such projects require long-term planning and significant financial resources. Therefore, the restoration of the Lower Havel is an important contribution to biodiversity protection in Germany and a model for other river restoration projects. The EU Restoration Regulation supports such projects. Long-term planning and significant financial resources are essential to successfully implement restoration projects and sustainably improve the ecological health of rivers like the Lower Havel.
The EU Biodiversity Strategy calls on member states to restore at least 25,000 kilometres of rivers to a free-flowing state by 2030. The restoration of the Lower Havel is an important step toward achieving this goal. Restoring river dynamics helps to improve the ecological health of the river and create habitats for numerous animal and plant species. The importance of water structures is particularly evident here. The restoration of the Lower Havel is an important step toward achieving the goals of the EU Biodiversity Strategy and improving the ecological health of rivers in Germany.
Green Belt: A 1,400 km lifeline for rare species along the former border
The Green Belt, a 1,400 km long habitat corridor along the former inner-German border, is a unique example of "nature reclaiming". It consists of a mix of forests, grasslands, and fallow land, providing a habitat for over 1,200 rare plant and animal species. The Green Belt has been proposed as a UNESCO World Heritage site and highlights the ecological value of linear landscape features as habitat corridors. The Green Belt is a unique habitat corridor that hosts over 1,200 rare plant and animal species and highlights the ecological value of linear landscape elements.
The Green Belt illustrates the ecological value of linear landscape elements as habitat corridors and the potential for repurposing former military zones for nature conservation. Recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage site would further enhance its protection status and promote international cooperation. The Green Belt is an example of how "nature reclaiming" can succeed by creating habitats for endangered species. The former inner-German border has become a refuge for many species. Recognition of the Green Belt as a UNESCO World Heritage site would further enhance its protection status and promote international cooperation.
The Green Belt is an important component of the national biotope network and helps reduce habitat fragmentation. It allows for the exchange of species between different habitats, thus contributing to the preservation of genetic diversity. Consequently, the Green Belt is an important building block for the protection of biodiversity in Germany. The EU Biodiversity Strategy supports such projects. The Green Belt plays a crucial role in reducing habitat fragmentation and preserving genetic diversity in Germany.
The "nature reclaiming" through the Green Belt is proof that even former military zones can make a valuable contribution to nature conservation. The Green Belt should serve as a model for protecting and developing further linear landscape elements to enhance habitat connectivity and promote biodiversity. The importance of Natura2000 is particularly evident here. The Green Belt serves as a model for the development of further linear landscape elements to enhance habitat connectivity and sustainably promote biodiversity in Germany.
National Parks: How Undisturbed Natural Development Promotes Biodiversity
Germany has 16 national parks with diverse ecological characteristics. They aim to allow nature to run its own course and to enable undisturbed natural development. Many national parks are "developmental national parks", which indicates ongoing efforts to meet the full criteria for natural development. Expansion plans often encounter conflicts. The national parks are an integral part of the "Nature Reclaimed" in Germany. Germany's 16 national parks play a crucial role in promoting undisturbed natural development and protecting biodiversity.
The concept of "developmental national parks" highlights the challenges of reconciling conservation goals with existing land use and stakeholder interests. Addressing these conflicts through participatory planning and adaptive management is essential for successful national park management. The expansion of protected areas often encounters resistance. Participatory planning and adaptive management are essential to manage conflicts between conservation goals and stakeholder interests, ensuring the success of national park management.
The national parks are important refuges for endangered animal and plant species and help preserve biodiversity in Germany. They also offer opportunities for public recreation and education. Thus, the national parks are a significant part of "Nature Reclaimed" and contribute to improving Germany's ecological health. The EU Biodiversity Strategy supports such projects. National parks serve as crucial refuges for endangered species and significantly contribute to preserving biodiversity in Germany.
The "Nature Reclaimed" through the national parks is evidence that it is possible to leave large areas to natural development and to promote biodiversity. The national parks should serve as a model to designate additional protected areas and enhance Germany's ecological health. The importance of deadwood for biodiversity is particularly evident here. The national parks are proof that large areas can be left to natural development, to promote biodiversity and sustainably improve Germany's ecological health.
EU Nature Restoration Regulation: How 20% Restored Area by 2030 Saves Nature
The EU Restoration Regulation aims to restore 20% of the EU's land and sea areas by 2030 and all necessary areas by 2050. It seeks to address the poor condition of European ecosystems. The regulation is part of the EU Green Deal, which aims to achieve climate neutrality by 2050. Restoration contributes to climate protection by restoring carbon sinks like peatlands and supporting ecosystem services like pollination. The EU Restoration Regulation is a significant driver for the "Nature Regains" initiative in Germany. The EU Restoration Regulation is a crucial step to address the poor condition of European ecosystems and achieve climate neutrality by 2050.
Restoration may require the conversion of agricultural land, which presents challenges and provokes political resistance from farmers who fear land loss and stricter regulations. The German Farmers' Association (DBV) advocates for cooperation and incentives instead of blanket bans. The EU Restoration Regulation includes an "emergency brake". The conversion of agricultural land poses challenges and can lead to political resistance, which is why cooperation and incentives are called for instead of bans.
The "Nature Regains" through the EU Restoration Regulation is an important step to improve Europe's ecological health. The regulation should serve as an incentive to advance further restoration projects in Germany and promote biodiversity. The EU Biodiversity Strategy supports such projects. Restoration contributes to climate neutrality. The EU Restoration Regulation is a vital incentive to advance further restoration projects in Germany and promote biodiversity, ultimately contributing to climate neutrality.
The ecological condition of restored areas is monitored using indicators such as field bird breeding pairs to ensure that the state of nature does not deteriorate following restoration efforts. Restoration projects may require changes in agricultural practices, such as shifting from arable farming to grazing or cultivating wetland grasses for building materials on re-wetted peatlands. The importance of calamity areas is particularly evident here. Monitoring the ecological condition of restored areas is crucial to ensure that restoration efforts indeed lead to an improvement in nature rather than a deterioration.
Natural Succession: How Calamity Areas Unexpectedly Promote Biodiversity
The gradual reclamation of former military sites by nature in the Königsforst highlights the resilience of natural processes. Areas of calamity (e.g., due to storm damage or pest infestations) are explicitly identified as particularly valuable for nature. This challenges conventional forestry practices that prioritize immediate replanting and emphasizes the ecological benefits of natural succession and the creation of diverse habitats in these disturbed areas. Natural succession is an important part of “Nature Reclaimed” in Germany. Natural succession on areas of calamity offers unexpected opportunities for biodiversity and challenges conventional forestry practices.
The importance of deadwood for biodiversity is emphasized, with its role as a source of food, and as daytime or winter quarters for insects, birds, and small mammals explicitly mentioned. This underscores the need to preserve deadwood in managed forests to support a diverse range of species and promote ecosystem health. The EU Restoration Regulation supports such projects. Deadwood plays a crucial role in biodiversity by providing food, and daytime or winter quarters for numerous animal species, and should therefore be preserved in managed forests.
“Nature Reclaimed” through natural succession is proof that nature is capable of creating valuable habitats even without human intervention. Natural succession should be seen as an opportunity to promote biodiversity and improve the ecological health of Germany. Areas of calamity offer valuable habitats. Natural succession is proof of nature’s ability to create valuable habitats without human intervention, and should be used as an opportunity to promote biodiversity.
The structural richness of forest edge areas is highlighted as being of particular importance for biodiversity. This suggests that management practices should focus on maintaining and enhancing these transition zones to maximize their ecological value. The importance of forest edge areas is particularly evident here. The structural richness of forest edge areas is of particular importance for biodiversity, and management practices should focus on maintaining and enhancing these transition zones.
Urban Renaturation: How Cities Promote Biodiversity Through Greening
The loss of biodiversity in Germany is severe and affects mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, wild plants, and insects, highlighting a systemic ecological crisis. The decline in flying insect biomass by 76% between 1989 and 2016 underscores the urgency of targeted conservation measures. Urban rewilding is an important component of the "Nature Reclaimed" initiative in Germany. The severe loss of biodiversity in Germany demands urgent conservation measures, with urban rewilding playing a crucial role.
The EU has committed to protecting 30% of land and sea areas by 2030, with 10% designated as strict nature reserves, which may not suffice to halt species extinction. Urban greening initiatives, supported by federal programs, are crucial for enhancing biodiversity and improving human well-being in cities. The EU Rewilding Regulation supports such projects. Urban greening initiatives are critical for improving biodiversity and enhancing human well-being in cities, supported by federal programs and the EU Rewilding Regulation.
The "Nature Reclaimed" through urban rewilding demonstrates that cities, too, can make a valuable contribution to conservation. Urban rewilding should be seen as an opportunity to promote biodiversity and enhance the quality of life in cities. The urban greening initiatives are crucial. Urban rewilding offers a valuable opportunity to promote biodiversity and sustainably improve the quality of life in cities.
Hamburg's initiative to naturalise 8% of its area, including green spaces and parks, and to connect nature reserves, demonstrates a proactive approach to urban ecology. The transformation of the Ruhr area from a coal and steel centre to a green industrial region signifies a shift towards sustainable urban development. The commitment of 393 cities, municipalities, and counties in the "Alliance of Municipalities for Biological Diversity" highlights the importance of local actions to promote biodiversity. The concept of "National Park Cities" presents a forward-thinking perspective for fostering a healthier environment and a shared future. The importance of water structures is particularly evident here. Hamburg's proactive initiative to naturalise 8% of its area and the transformation of the Ruhr area into a green industrial region are exemplary approaches for sustainable urban development, highlighting the importance of local actions to promote biodiversity.
Further useful links
The Tagesschau reports on the EU decision regarding rewilding as part of the Green Deal.
National Geographic presents five conservation projects in Germany that inspire hope.
City of Cologne provides information on succession and other ecological processes in urban areas.
FAQ
What does "Reclaiming Nature" mean in the context of Germany?
"Reclaiming Nature" describes the process in which natural habitats in Germany, despite dense population and intensive use, are restored and revitalised. This includes rewilding projects aimed at promoting biodiversity and restoring intact ecosystems.
What role does the EU Biodiversity Strategy 2030 play in rewilding efforts in Germany?
The EU Biodiversity Strategy 2030 serves as an important framework for national efforts in Germany to halt the loss of biodiversity. It mandates that by 2030, 30% of the EU's land and sea areas should be protected, with 10% being strictly protected.
How does the Emscher rewilding contribute to "Reclaiming Nature"?
The Emscher rewilding is a remarkable example of how a once heavily polluted river can be transformed into a thriving ecosystem. Through the construction of sewage treatment plants and the restoration of the natural river course, the water quality has been significantly improved.
What makes the Peene Valley a special example of rewilding?
The Peene Valley, also known as the "Amazon of the North," is a bird paradise created through the conversion of farmland into wetlands. NABU already manages over 1,300 hectares and plans to further expand this area.
What are the objectives of rewilding the Lower Havel?
The rewilding of the Lower Havel aims to restore the ecological integrity of the Havel river system. This includes the reconnection of river branches and the restoration of natural floodplains.
What is special about the Green Belt along the former inner-German border?
The Green Belt is a 1,400 km long habitat corridor along the former inner-German border, providing a home to over 1,200 rare plant and animal species. It has been proposed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
How do national parks contribute to "Reclaiming Nature"?
Germany’s 16 national parks aim to let nature take its course and allow for undisturbed natural development. Many are "development national parks," indicating ongoing efforts to meet the full criteria for natural development.
What impact does the EU Rewilding Regulation have on Germany?
The EU Rewilding Regulation aims to restore 20% of the EU's land and sea areas by 2030 and all necessary areas by 2050. It seeks to remedy the poor condition of European ecosystems and contributes to climate protection.
