Afforestation & Forest Conservation
Both reforestation and forest protection are important elements in combating climate change. Forests contribute to oxygen production, absorb CO2 from the atmosphere, and help cool the environment through various mechanisms. These ecological processes are crucial for maintaining a stable climate system and a healthy environment. Therefore, the Daniel Schlegel Umweltstiftung supports a variety of reforestation and forest protection projects.
Forests are indispensable for climate protection and biodiversity on our planet. Nevertheless, large areas of forests and old-growth forests are being lost due to natural (wind damage, infestations, fires, droughts, etc.) and artificial factors (deforestation for agricultural land, illegal logging, arson, etc.).
Additionally, the health status of many trees is considered critical. According to the 2022 Forest Condition Survey in Germany, only 21% of the total tree population is classified as healthy. It is now a priority to adapt forests to climate change in the long term. In reforesting damaged areas and in the long-term conversion of forests towards stable and adaptable mixed forests, it is important to ensure a choice of tree species that are suitable for the location and predominantly native.
Forest protection refers to measures taken to preserve existing forests from damage, degradation, or destruction. The Daniel Schlegel Umweltstiftung works with organizations like NABU, B.U.N.D. and others to focus on:
- Developing protected areas and national parks to conserve sensitive forest ecosystems.
- Promoting sustainable forestry practices to achieve a healthy balance between ecological, social, and economic aspects of forest management.
- Educating and raising public awareness about the importance of forests for the environment and the necessity of their protection.
As an environmental foundation, we have been engaged in numerous projects both nationally and internationally in the fields of reforestation and forest protection since 2019.
