2024-11-24 08:30:00
The “Wiener Wäldchen” campaign was launched in 2022. Since then, new mini-forests have been continually planted to make the city even greener and more resilient to the challenges of climate change. Foresters from the city of Vienna, together with students, have planted a new forest with over 20 different species of trees and shrubs on Jedlersdorfer Straße. It was an absolute experience for the school children to be active themselves and to be able to watch the little forest grow from now on.
“Viennese forests are a good way to create green oases even in densely built-up areas. These mini-forests not only help to cool the environment, but also provide a habitat for numerous native plants and animals,” emphasizes Climate City Councilor Jürgen Czernohorszky. “With each planting, we gain valuable insight into which tree and shrub species are best adapted to the increasing climatic challenges.”
The first “mini-forest” was planted in the 5th district in Stefan Weber Park – there are currently nine Viennese forests throughout the city of Vienna – a tenth small forest will be planted in the 1st district in November!
City nature in a small area
A “Viennese forest” is a very dense and fast-growing mini-forest with a variety of trees and bushes. Due to the small minimum size of 100 m² and the rapid growth, these groves are particularly suitable for small areas in densely built-up areas. The forest is moving closer to the city center, species diversity and biodiversity can be experienced directly.
These mini-forests, which are about the size of a tennis court, not only provide shade, but also help reduce temperatures in their immediate surroundings through their evaporative cooling. “The dense planting in small areas not only promotes the growth of trees, but also creates ideal conditions for insects, birds and other animals,” explains forestry director Andreas Januskovecz.
New location on Jedlersdorfer Straße
The “Wiener Wäldchen” project is run as a joint project by the municipal administration and the municipal departments of Vienna City Gardens, Climate, Forestry and Agriculture of the City of Vienna and Vienna Environmental Protection. A 300 m² area on Jedlersdorfer Straße was planted with native and climate-friendly trees and bushes.
“These trees are not just an improvement for the Grätzl: Planting them together helps to promote an understanding of nature and climate protection among our children. I support this project as a sustainable piece of the mosaic in our family-friendly Floridsdorf!” says district leader Georg Papai happily.
This year, residents and students will once again be involved in further planting campaigns. Together with foresters and gardeners from the City of Vienna, the trees are planted and at the same time a direct connection to the city’s greenery is established.
All information about the Vienna Woods: www.wien.gv.at/umwelt/wald/wiener-waeldchen.html
Press photos for this release will be available shortly www.wien.gv.at/pressebilder available. (Ending)
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How does the “Wiener Wäldchen” initiative impact local biodiversity and contribute to climate resilience in urban areas?
**Interview with Climate City Councilor Jürgen Czernohorszky on Vienna’s “Wiener Wäldchen” Initiative**
**Interviewer:** Good morning, Mr. Czernohorszky. Thank you for joining us today to discuss the “Wiener Wäldchen” initiative. It’s fascinating to see how Vienna is working towards becoming greener. Can you tell us more about the recent planting on Jedlersdorfer Straße?
**Czernohorszky:** Good morning, and thank you for having me. The recent planting on Jedlersdorfer Straße is part of our ongoing effort to enhance urban green spaces through the ”Wiener Wäldchen” campaign. This particular mini-forest features more than 20 different species of trees and shrubs, and it involved not only our foresters but also local school children who actively participated in the planting. It’s a wonderful way for them to connect with nature and witness the development of their forest over time.
**Interviewer:** That sounds like a rewarding experience for the students! How do these mini-forests contribute to tackling climate change and enhancing biodiversity in the city?
**Czernohorszky:** These mini-forests serve as vital green oases in our densely populated areas. They help to cool the environment, which is increasingly important in light of rising temperatures. Additionally, they provide critical habitats for native plants and animals, fostering biodiversity right within the city. Each time we plant these forests, we gain insights into which species adapt best to our changing climate, enhancing our resilience in the face of environmental challenges.
**Interviewer:** It’s impressive that there are now nine such forests across Vienna, with a tenth planned for the 1st district. What has been the public’s reaction to this initiative?
**Czernohorszky:** The public response has been overwhelmingly positive. People appreciate the initiative as it not only beautifies our neighborhoods but also demonstrates a commitment to sustainability. The “Wiener Wäldchen” campaign has sparked interest in environmental education, particularly among young people, which is essential for fostering a future generation that values and protects our natural resources.
**Interviewer:** As these mini-forests are designed to be quite compact, what benefits do they offer to residents in urban settings?
**Czernohorszky:** Each “Wiener Wäldchen” covers a minimal area of about 100 m² – roughly the size of a tennis court. Despite their small size, they significantly contribute to reducing urban heat islands by providing shade and promoting evaporative cooling. They also enhance the experience of nature right in the heart of the city, improving the quality of life for residents by increasing access to green spaces.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Mr. Czernohorszky, for sharing these insights on the “Wiener Wäldchen” initiative. It’s encouraging to see how cities can innovate in the face of climate challenges.
**Czernohorszky:** Thank you for the opportunity to discuss this important initiative. Together, we can continue to make Vienna a greener and more livable city.
