Conservationists: road salt in winter damages trees in summer
Drought stress, compacted soils, road salt: why urban trees in Saxony are struggling more and more - and how targeted watering can be a real tree saver.
Sustainability and environmental protection in Saxony
The latest news on climate protection, the environment, sustainability and climate change in Saxony and around the world.
Instead of plastic waste: compostable rapid tests made from bioplastics
Millions of tons of plastic waste from rapid tests - is that necessary? HTW Dresden says no and is developing tests made from biodegradable material. The plastic is made from plant starch and composts in 90 days. Researchers in Saxony want to create a sustainable alternative for medical diagnostics.
Dangerous legacy of the gold mines
Every day, dust from huge spoil tips blows into the residential areas around Johannesburg in South Africa. What many people don't know: It contains uranium. Researchers from the Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf have investigated the extent to which children living near old gold mines are exposed. The hair analyses show clear differences to children from areas without mining.
Koala offspring at Leipzig Zoo is called Inala
More than 3,000 names were suggested for the koala cub at Leipzig Zoo. Now it has been decided: the little female is called Inala - and according to the keepers, she is developing magnificently.
Nature conservation project for warm habitats in the Elbe Valley
Reptiles such as sand lizards and smooth snakes as well as rare butterfly species live in the so-called dry and warm sections of the Elbe Valley. These areas are now to be protected even better.
Lithium mining in the Ore Mountains: two projects, many hurdles
The Czech Republic relies on state subsidies for lithium mining, while Saxony is still waiting for a clear signal from Brussels. What obstacles and opportunities are there for projects in the region?
Lithium mining in the Ore Mountains: two projects, many hurdles
The Czech Republic relies on state subsidies for lithium mining, while Saxony is still waiting for a clear signal from Brussels. What obstacles and opportunities are there for projects in the region?
Winter census: fewer birds in Saxony's gardens
The Nature and Biodiversity Conservation Union reports a significant decline in sparrow species. This not only affects Saxony, but also reflects a nationwide trend.
Particulate matter makes the air thick in Saxony
High concentrations of particulate matter are causing problems in Saxony: The limit values are currently being exceeded in many cities. Will rain and snow soon ease the situation?
Inventory at Hoyerswerda Zoo - number of species on the rise
Hoyerswerda Zoo has counted its animals and has 2026 more species in its population. The zoo is particularly pleased to have several offspring.
Drought despite rain: water balance not balanced
Many people will remember the summer of 2025 as rather rainy. But over the year as a whole, it was too dry in Saxony. The Free State lacks the classic "country rain".
Endangered lucky charms: Crowned crane is zoo animal of the year
It hunts locusts, adorns Uganda's flag and is considered a lucky charm: the impressive bird is massively endangered in its habitats. Today, there are fewer than 100,000 of the animals left in Africa.
"Unexpected sight": Transporter with dogs stopped
More barking than initially expected: During an inspection at the border with Poland, officials make a discovery that also alerts the veterinary office.
Swan blocks intersection in Görlitz district for hours
It appears again and again, stays put and simply cannot be chased away: A swan has caused a stir at a crossroads near Niesky - and kept the police busy for hours.
Pigeons in the city: between ban and voluntary work
Pigeons are part of the cityscape in Saxony's major cities. However, instead of fixed concepts, the cities rely on feeding bans and the commitment of volunteers.
Dresden Zoo with more guests and furry additions
Welcome and farewell. Even in a zoo, zookeepers experience sadness and loss alongside many joyful moments. Nevertheless, 2025 will go down in the zoo's history as a good year.
Forest campaign: more trees for climate and species protection
More forest for Saxony: Why the state government and the Forest Foundation are focusing on reforestation and which regions are particularly in focus.
Saxony is increasingly confronted with animal diseases
Saxony is struggling with animal diseases such as avian influenza and African swine fever. The responsible Minister Köpping believes that prevention and cooperation are the key to containment.
Perpetual chemicals in Dresden's waters locally limited
Substances that are considered harmful to health have been discovered in several bodies of water. The contamination is considered to be localized. It remains unclear where the chemicals come from.
Wolf pup is under special observation
It had become entangled in a fence in northern Saxony. The young wolf has been roaming the Annaburger Heide ever since. After an incident, the authorities are keeping a close eye on it.
Saxony's wolves provide data for research
Four wolves roam Saxony's forests in the service of science. They are equipped with a transmitter and provide experts with important data for wolf monitoring.
Pine needles become clothing: Researchers develop textiles from forest waste
In Saxony's forests, pine needles normally end up unused on the ground and rot. Researchers at WHZ Zwickau are now turning them into sustainable textiles. The "ConFiTex" project is creating completely compostable yarn from local conifer needles - an innovative contribution to the circular economy that shows how forest waste can be turned into fashion.
14-year-old koala Mullaya euthanized at Dresden Zoo
Mullaya was one of the first two koalas at Dresden Zoo. Recently, the koala dad weakened. And had to be put to sleep.
Caracals at Dresden Zoo have offspring
Dresden Zoo has been breeding caracals since 1937 - and now there are offspring again. This is how young Karlos coped with his first few weeks.
Two million euros for animal welfare
Last year, two million euros in funding was approved by the state of Saxony for animal welfare. However, the money was not available until the end of 2025.
Freiberg team wins millions in funding for clever cell phone recycling
Old cell phones and computers usually end up in the trash - but they contain valuable raw materials. A team from Freiberg has now developed a clever recycling process to recover gold, copper and rare earths. The six researchers from the Helmholtz Institute convinced an international jury and secured millions in funding. Their environmentally friendly process could help to reduce dependence on critical raw material imports.
What visitors can expect at Leipzig Zoo in 2026
A tropical light show and a name search for a koala cub at the beginning of the year, events for young and old throughout the year. Leipzig Zoo presents the program for 2026.
Counting birds in Saxony - Nabu calls for participation
More than 150,000 birds were sighted in Saxony last year. This year there could be even more due to the winter temperatures.
Leipzig Zoo seeks names for koala offspring
The cub is about six months old, but has not yet been given a name. That is about to change.