Municipality of Engelskirchen
The municipality of Engelskirchen, located in North Rhine-Westphalia, has shown a strong commitment to addressing climate change and preserving its natural landscapes. Faced with the challenges of bark beetle infestations and the growing need for more resilient forests, the local government recognized the importance of transitioning away from vulnerable monocultures, like spruce, to more diverse and adaptable ecosystems.
Gero Karthaus, the mayor of Engelskirchen, emphasized the critical timing of this initiative, as communities increasingly look for ways to actively combat climate change. In collaboration with the local landowner, Stift Ehreshoven Abbey, the municipality sought innovative solutions to ensure the long-term health of its forests and to inspire public involvement in reforestation.
This commitment materialized through the creation of Life Terra’s first "Klimawald" (climate forest) in Germany, established in partnership with Stift Ehreshoven. Covering five hectares of land within the Agger floodplain, the project planted over 50,000 trees, representing more than 16 climate-resilient species, including oaks, cedars, lime trees, chestnuts, and sequoias. These species were carefully selected in collaboration with local nurseries, forestry experts, and NRW’s forestry authority, *Landesbetrieb Wald und Holz Nordrhein Westfalen*, to ensure their suitability for future climate conditions.
The project has taken root in a highly visible area, along a busy hiking trail, which invites the community to witness the forest's growth firsthand. Under scientific observation, the project will track the performance of these species as they adapt to changing weather patterns. Additionally, Life Terra has made it possible for the public to adopt trees through their app and web platform, offering an interactive way for people to contribute to the reforestation efforts. This partnership not only strengthens local ecosystems but also engages the public in a meaningful way, highlighting the shared responsibility to combat climate change.
Website: https://www.engelskirchen.de/portal/startseite.html
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