IÖR Forum to mark the 50th anniversary of the Federal Nature Conservation Act

The Federal Nature Conservation Act was introduced in Germany 50 years ago. Since then, it has undergone a number of changes, amendments and extensions. What successes have been achieved, and what challenges remain? The latest instalment of the IÖR Forum takes a look back and ahead.

Illustration on the topic of the Federal Nature Conservation Act. An outline of Germany in the centre, surrounded by various types of landscape — Illustration: N. Bongaerts/IOER-Media

The introduction of the Federal Nature Conservation Act 50 years ago was linked to a stronger, holistic understanding of nature conservation. Value was now placed not only on wild landscapes, but also on cultural landscapes, right through to the transition between urban and rural areas. A central element of the Act was the ‘impact compensation’ provision. Unavoidable adverse impacts in one location must be offset by equivalent enhancements elsewhere.

In the years following its introduction, the Act was also implemented in the new federal states, and new requirements were introduced through European protected area frameworks (e.g. the Habitats Directive). Today, new challenges are emerging once again as a result of the Europe-wide restoration of nature and ecosystems.

All these efforts are certainly yielding results. Nevertheless, the loss of species, biodiversity and habitats has still not been halted. The IÖR Forum’s autumn series examines, from various perspectives, the achievements, shortcomings and challenges associated with the Federal Nature Conservation Act.

The series begins on 10 September (2.00 pm) with a lecture by Prof. Dr Marianne Darbi from Geisenheim University. This will be followed by events featuring Prof. Jürgen Breuste from the University of Hildesheim (9 October) and Ralf Kiontke from Autobahn GmbH (11 November).

All information on the current series of the IOER Forum

Contact at the IOER
Dr. Anna-Maria Schielicke, e-mail: a.schielickeioer@ioer.de

Back