A million new trees for Berlin: Greens fight against heat!

A million new trees for Berlin: Greens fight against heat!

The Greens in the Berlin House of Representatives have ambitious plans to reforest the capital. In a current position paper, which is to be adopted at a closed conference in Nauen, they demand the planting of one million new trees in the city. This happens against the background of alarming developments: The current black-red Senate falls thousands of trees every year without adequately replacing them. Group leader Bettina Jarasch warns that Berlin may no longer have trees in 80 years if no suitable measures are taken.

In addition to the urgency of protecting the climate, Jarasch emphasizes that vulnerable groups - such as children, older people and socially disadvantaged people - suffer from extreme heat. Trees not only make a contribution to the cooling of the city, they also represent important income for general interest and are essential for protection against floods. The Greens rely on using all suitable areas in Berlin to establish so-called mini forests. Private individuals should be encouraged to voluntarily provide space for this project.

The role of the trees in the city

overheated districts, including the City West, Alexanderplatz and Nord-Neukölln, could be cooled down by the targeted planting of trees. Studies show that sealed areas heat up to 15 degrees more than streets lined with trees. According to the Federal Environment Agency, trees with large crowns are an advantage, since they significantly lower the temperature in urban space. In an investigation that analyzed several European cities, measures such as green roofs and shadow donors were also recommended to reduce the physiologically equivalent temperature (PET) by 10 Kelvin and more.

The positive effects of the city greening are diverse. This includes not only the cooling of living rooms, but also the improvement of air quality through pollutant filtering and oxygen production. Trees thus act as the natural antidote against the urban heat island effect, which is favored by floor sealing and high building poems.

climate change and urban design

city greening is becoming increasingly important. It helps to reduce heat islands and offers natural spaces for humans and animals. In addition, green areas improve the quality of life in urban areas through noise reduction and the binding of fine dust. Trees and other plants contribute to biodiversity and create important habitats. A well -planned urban area requires the integration of shade -giving trees as well as suitable plants and water supply systems to secure success in the long term.

International successful city greening projects, such as the Bosco Vertical in Milan or HafenCity in Hamburg, offer valuable inspiration for Berlin. These projects show how well thought -out planning and the integration of green spaces into the urban infrastructure can serve not only the environment, but also to the well -being of the residents. One step in the right direction is the encouragement of the citizens to maintain and accept the green areas, which ultimately leads to a higher quality of life in the capital.

The Greens are faced with the challenge of enforcing these ambitious plans against current politics. But in view of the overwhelming advantages that an extensive tree planting campaign for the city climate and the health of the citizens could bring, their efforts are essential.

For further information on the effects of trees in the city and the necessary measures to improve urban climate, visit RBB24, the Federal Environment Agency and Climate Knowledge.