Baden-Württemberg’s Nature up close transforms towns into climate havens

From Stuttgart to Freiburg, towns are rewilding public spaces to beat heat and drought. Could your municipality be next before the 2025 deadline?

, and Administrator

2025 December 31 . 10:18 PM

1 min read

This is the picture of a place where we have some buildings to which there are some windows, green... — This is the picture of a place where we have some buildings to which there are some windows, green color clothes and also we can see some shops, boards and some trees and plants around.

Baden-Württemberg’s Nature up close transforms towns into climate havens

A project assisting cities and towns in Baden-Württemberg in creating natural green spaces has already supported over ten percent of local authorities. The initiative, called Nature up close, offers funding, training, and expert advice to combat heat, drought, and declining wildlife. Municipalities can apply for assistance until the end of 2025.

The Nature up close project is run by NABU Baden-Württemberg and funded by the state’s Ministry of Environment, Climate and Energy. It provides up to 15,000 euros per applicant, along with guidance on designing climate-resilient green areas. These spaces require less upkeep over time, cutting costs and easing the workload for staff.

So far, 45 municipalities—including Stuttgart, Karlsruhe, and Freiburg—have joined the scheme. Around 1,700 others have yet to apply. Online consultation sessions are available for those with questions about the process. Applications must be submitted by December 31, 2025. A jury will review them in early 2026. The project also aims to inspire residents by turning public green spaces into examples of sustainable gardening.

The initiative helps towns develop wildlife-friendly areas that adapt to climate change. Successful applicants will receive financial support and expert advice. The long-term goal is to reduce maintenance demands while encouraging similar practices in private gardens.