Günther: State of Saxony's forests a cause for concern
The forest condition report for Saxony has not been a pleasant read for years. Bark beetles, storms and drought are leaving their mark - more and more trees are sick.
News zu #Environment
Saxony pays 205 million to agricultural businesses
Saxony supports farms in disadvantaged areas with subsidies. The planned payments are primarily intended to compensate for natural disadvantages.
Günther takes stock of the state's riparian forest projects
The development of the Leipzig alluvial forest was enshrined in Saxony's coalition agreement in 2019. A lot has happened since then, but the future of the project depends on the future state government.
Lawsuit filed against expansion of Leipzig/Halle Airport
The areas for aircraft at Leipzig/Halle Cargo Airport are to be significantly enlarged. Environmentalists want to stop the project in court.
First salmon returns to Saxony
The "king of fish" has returned to Saxony. However, the rise of the salmon has once again started late. Why?
Raw material extraction project in the Ore Mountains pushed ahead
A new ore mine is to be built in Pöhla in the Ore Mountains. Similar plans are also being pursued elsewhere in Saxony - for lithium and tin, for example. What is the current status?
Dresden replaces old gas lamps with modern LEDs
In the Saxon state capital, old gas lamps still provide light on the streets. Some have already been replaced - others will not.
Successful repair bonus in Saxony: Environment Minister draws positive interim balance
The repair bonus was introduced in Saxony a year ago. The environment minister draws a positive balance. But there is still money left over.
Organic farming in Saxony continues to grow
Organic products are in vogue - not only among some consumers, but also among farmers. With positive effects for the state.
Saxon Mining Authority approves plans for new mine in Pöhla
Tungsten, tin and fluorspar are to be extracted in a new mine in the Ore Mountains. The mining authority has now given the go-ahead.
Noise level at Leipzig/Halle Airport slightly lower at night
Despite falling freight rates, aircraft noise at Leipzig Airport remains a hotly debated topic. Some citizens are taking a particularly creative approach - with self-built monitoring systems.
Saxony is catching up in the expansion of renewable energy
Renewable energies are also in demand and on the rise in Saxony. The latest report from the federal and state governments shows some progress - and an upward trend.
Wolf expert recommends targeted protective hunting of problematic wolves
What to do with the wolf: The wild animal is to be less strictly protected in future due to attacks on sheep, cattle and horses. There are a number of things to consider when moving forward.
Water withdrawal ban in Dresden lifted ahead of schedule
Rivers and streams in Dresden ran the risk of drying up in summer. It was therefore forbidden to draw water. The environmental agency has now lifted this ban ahead of schedule.
Climate change hits Central Germany particularly hard: average temperature rises significantly
Climate change has different consequences around the world. A climate report shows what is happening in Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt and Thuringia. One parameter is particularly striking in central Germany.
Saxony records fewer forest fires in 2024 so far
Prolonged dryness and drought increase the risk of fire in Saxony's forests every year. Most of the fires are caused by negligence - some also occur during harvesting and forestry work.
Tank too full: heating oil flows into Lichtenstein stream
Heating oil leaked into a stream in Lichtenstein, Saxony, because a tank was too full. Firefighters set up an oil barrier.
Heating oil spills into stream in Rödlitz
Heating oil leaked into a stream in Lichtenstein, Saxony, because a tank was too full. Firefighters set up an oil barrier.
Young sturgeons released into the Elbe for the first time in almost ten years
It was a major reintroduction project that was interrupted in 2014. Now it's starting again, because the sturgeon has an important effect on rivers.
Environmental associations call on parties in eastern German states to take action against global warming
Climate change is making itself felt, even in Germany. However, it is not a major topic in the state election campaigns. Associations warn that it is not only the social climate that is heating up.
Associations ahead of state elections: don't forget the "climate crisis"
Climate change is making itself felt, even in Germany. However, it is not a major topic in the state election campaigns. Associations warn that it is not only the social climate that is heating up.
Christmas tree producers in Saxony expect prices to rise in 2024
Some Christmas tree producers in Saxony are expecting prices to rise in 2024. Nevertheless, the Christmas tree should remain affordable for everyone.
Günther warns against easing up on climate protection after the election
Droughts, floods, extreme weather - climate change has long been noticeable in Saxony too. The environment minister warns against easing up on climate protection measures.
Chemist swims over 1000 kilometers across the Elbe for water protection
A sporty scientist campaigns for water protection. Andreas Fath swims more than 1000 kilometers across the Elbe. It is not his first experiment of this kind.
Environment Minister: species extinction in Saxony a threat
For Environment Minister Wolfram Günther, species conservation and climate protection go hand in hand. Over the past five years, a trend reversal has been initiated, but there is still a lot to do, says the Minister.
Federal government contradicts Saxon criticism of funding program
Saxony's regional development ministry has criticized parts of the new STARK funding programme. The Federal Ministry of Economics rejects the accusations.
Saxony's regional development ministry criticizes federal funding programme for coal regions
The federal government is providing new scope for investment in future technologies. Saxony's regional minister nevertheless sees an important gap in the program.
Blue-green algae in the Quitzdorf reservoir - authority advises against swimming
Dangerous blue-green algae have been discovered in the Quitzdorf reservoir. Streaking and cloudy water indicate the presence of bacteria.
Number of forest fires in Saxony at a similar level to 2023
The 2024 forest fire season shows unusual developments in Saxony. Special measures and human behavior play a decisive role.
Criticism of lignite follow-up costs - change of course demanded
Civil society organizations are pushing for a change of course regarding the follow-up costs of lignite. They fear that taxpayers could be faced with billions in clean-up costs.
34 wolf packs and 5 wolf pairs in Saxony - monitoring results 2023/2024
According to preliminary monitoring results, there are 34 wolf packs, 5 wolf pairs and 2 territorial individuals in Saxony. The wolf population is still concentrated in eastern Saxony.
Wolf monitoring in Saxony: 34 packs, 5 pairs and 2 single animals according to preliminary results
Preliminary results show that 34 wolf packs, 5 wolf pairs and 2 territorial individuals live in Saxony. The focus is on eastern Saxony.
The second EU-wide day of remembrance for the victims of the global climate crisis July 15, 2024
The second EU-wide day of remembrance for the victims of the climate crisis emphasizes the urgency of climate protection measures and commemorates the victims worldwide.
City cycling for a good climate - Saxony with 18 participating municipalities
In Saxony, 18 municipalities are taking part in the city cycling campaign, with Leipzig and Dresden among the oldest. Saxony is looking into funding for the participation fees.
Saxony lags behind in city cycling
Cycling as many distances as possible for 21 days - that's what the city cycling campaign is all about. In Saxony, participation is comparatively low. The organizers see one reason for this.
1,000 hectares of Dauban forest to become wilderness
Nature conservation in the Dauban Forest is making progress. An area on the site of the former NVA military training area is to be left entirely to nature.
Danger for bees: Asian hornet soon in Saxony?
The Asian hornet is feared as a bee predator. While it is spreading in other federal states, it has not yet been sighted in Saxony. A question of time?
State administration to be largely climate-neutral by 2040
A new master plan prescribes steps towards climate neutrality for the state administration in Bavaria. This affects the energy supply and the vehicle fleets of the various departments, for example.
State administration to be largely climate-neutral by 2040
A new master plan prescribes steps towards climate neutrality for the state administration in Bavaria. This affects, for example, the energy supply and the vehicle fleets of the various departments.
Forest fire danger increases in Saxony
The risk of forest fires has increased throughout Saxony compared to the weekend. There is a medium risk in large parts of the state, but two areas are in the high risk zone.
Shortages of building materials feared: Fewer quarrying companies
Whether gravel, sand or natural stone - Saxony is rich in raw materials that are needed for construction projects. Nevertheless, the industry is warning of shortages and rising prices. What are the reasons?
Three million euros for nature conservation-friendly pond management
The Free State of Saxony will continue to support nature conservation-friendly pond farming in Saxony in 2024 with three million euros from EU and state funds. The money will go to 84 farms and a pond area of 7859 hectares as well as nature conservation associations - mainly in ponds with fish produ ..
Oak processionary moth feels at home in warm regions
The hairs of the oak processionary moth cause itching, sometimes even breathing difficulties. The butterfly species is on the increase in warm regions of Saxony.
Leipzig Opera receives sustainability certificate
As Artistic Director of Oper Leipzig, Tobias Wolff wants to pay particular attention to the topic of sustainability. Year after year, his opera house wants to earn a certificate to this effect.
Saxony: Districts receive pre-emptive right for nature conservation areas
Saxony makes it easier for districts to acquire nature conservation areas through pre-emption rights and lowers the minimum age for voluntary work in nature conservation to 16.
Children and young people in Saxony involved as Young Nature Guards
Building mud huts, weaving wicker baskets, listening to birdsong: Children and young people from Saxony got involved as "Young Nature Guards" on Saturday.
Topping-out ceremony at the mother-of-pearl experience center in Adorf
By next year, the mother-of-pearl and local history museum in Vogtland is to be expanded into an experience center. Interested visitors will be able to learn more about the production of mother-of-pearl products.
Topping-out ceremony for the expansion of the "Perlmutter" adventure center in Adorf
The topping-out ceremony for the expansion of the "Perlmutter" adventure center was celebrated in Adorf (Vogtlandkreis). The project aims to attract tourists and revitalize the town.
Tension in Saxony's forests: Bark beetle situation remains critical
The bark beetle situation in Saxony's forests remains tense. The early swarming of the bark beetles due to the warm weather at the end of March was unfavorable.
Bark beetle situation in Saxony's forests remains tense
The bark beetle situation in Saxony's forests remains tense, with up to three generations this year and a slight increase in wood infestation.
Bark beetle situation in Saxony's forests remains tense
The bark beetle situation in Saxony's forests remains tense. Warm weather favors reproduction. Water supply to the trees has a positive effect.
Saxony's environment minister welcomes continuation of the repair bonus
Saxony's Environment Minister Wolfram Günther welcomes the continuation of the repair bonus and emphasizes its success for the environment and climate.
Poland loses before EU court in dispute over Turow opencast lignite mine
Poland concedes defeat before EU court in dispute over Turow opencast lignite mine. Judge allows penalty payment to be offset against Polish claims.
BUND sees environmental protection jeopardized by the rise of populists
The environmental association BUND has warned of serious consequences for climate and nature conservation due to the rise of populist parties. Europe is at a crossroads with the elections on June 9. "Democracy, the existence of the EU and the possibility of effective environmental protection would b ..
No financial aid for Saxon fruit and wine growers after frost damage
Saxon fruit and wine growers receive no financial aid from the general budget of the Free State following immense frost damage. Ministry of Finance confirms lack of opportunities.
Saxony's environment minister promises financial aid for fruit and wine growers after frost damage
Saxony's Environment Minister holds out the prospect of aid for affected fruit and wine growers after frost damage caused immense damage.
Saxony warns of poisonous spring ragwort: control urgently recommended
The poisonous spring ragwort is spreading in Saxony, state office recommends combating it. Plant contains harmful substances.
Kretschmer criticizes G7 agreement to phase out coal by 2035
Saxony's Minister President Michael Kretschmer criticizes the G7's agreement to phase out coal by 2035 and warns of the costs and impact on Germany's competitiveness.
Number of endangered white-tailed eagles in Saxony continues to rise
The number of endangered white-tailed eagles in Saxony has been increasing for years, especially in Upper Lusatia.
Lawsuits against connection for LNG terminal dismissed
Superfluous and harmful to the environment or necessary in terms of security of supply? The Rügen liquefied natural gas terminal is controversial. A federal court has now ruled against the connection.
Reforestation in Saxony: 700,000 new trees planted
Thanks to many volunteers, more than 700,000 new trees have been planted in Saxony since 2022. A good 5,000 people have taken part in the Forest Championship campaign so far, the initiators announced on Sunday. The initiative of the Forest for Saxony Foundation, the image campaign of the Free State ..
Highest wind turbine in Central Saxony put into operation
The highest wind turbine in Central Saxony with a height of 246.6 meters and an output of 5560 kilowatts is in operation. It supplies more than 4600 households with renewable energy.
Bark beetle season in Saxony starts early
The bark beetle season has started early in Saxony, forest owners should act now.
More wolf kills expected at the start of the grazing season
The grazing season begins in Saxony. This also increases the risk of wolf attacks. How can livestock owners protect themselves?
High concentration of particulate matter over Easter
A milky haze clouded the sky and sun in many places over the Easter weekend, including Saxony. The desert sand blown north from the Sahara by the wind made for bad air - but not alone.
Environmental associations call for careful handling of Easter bonfires
Environmental organizations give tips for environmentally friendly Easter bonfires and warn of the negative effects on animals and the environment.
Dulig: "There is no way around e-cars"
From 2035, no more new cars with combustion engines are to be registered in the EU. But the decision is being shaken.
Alternative flight corridor at Leipzig/Halle Airport to protect communities from noise
Examination of an alternative flight corridor for noise protection for neighboring communities at Leipzig/Halle Airport. DFS instructed to shift departure procedures to the east.
First lynxes released into the wild in the Ore Mountains
Around 20 lynx are to be released into the wild in Saxony by 2027. The first two animals have now made a start.
WG Wolf presents criteria for shooting "problem wolves"
The wolf is strictly protected in Germany. It has only been native again for a good 30 years, but is spreading rapidly. Livestock farmers are concerned about this, as sheep and goats are also prey.
Municipalities agree: want to become the first "Net Zero Valley"
The municipalities of Lusatia want to score points with an initiative as the first climate-neutral model region. They have applied to the EU in Brussels for this. The alliance sees many advantages in this.
Perfect conditions for bark beetles after storm depression
After a storm at the end of last year left damage in the forests of the district of Saxon Switzerland-Eastern Ore Mountains, experts fear further negative effects from the bark beetle. The district announced in Pirna on Wednesday that the dead wood that had been felled served as a suitable breeding ..
Court postpones verdict on controversial Turów opencast mine
The Voivodeship Administrative Court in Warsaw has postponed its verdict in the case of the controversial Turów opencast mine to March 13. The reason given was the illness of a judge, the city of Zittau announced on Wednesday. The background to the proceedings is a complaint by the town of Zittau in ..
Left-wing politicians call for more support for the German solar industry
Leading left-wing politicians are calling for more support for the German solar industry in order to prevent the closure of sites in eastern Germany.
Saxony's bees get the year off to a good start
The bees still have three weeks of calendar winter to get through. Then they will have overcome their biggest threat for the time being: the Varroa mite.
Citizens' initiative fails: energy projects south of Leipzig are implemented
A citizens' initiative has failed in its attempt to prevent two energy projects south of Leipzig. The referendum on the "Green Power Park" and "Kleinzössen Energy Park" projects in Neukieritzsch was negative.
Climate change threatens the ecosystem in the Wadden Sea Unesco World Heritage Site
The consequences of climate change on land and at sea are increasingly changing the ecosystem in the Wadden Sea. New study shows unprecedented changes.
Tesla expansion in Grünheide: municipality looks for solutions
Following the rejection of the development plan for the Tesla expansion in Grünheide, the municipality is looking for solutions. Communication and timetable as decisive factors.
Voivodeship Administrative Court announces verdict on controversial Turów opencast mine
Warsaw Voivodeship Administrative Court rules on the environmental impact of the Turów opencast mine following a complaint by the town of Zittau.
Green Power Park planned on site of former briquette factory south of Leipzig
A green power park with a data center, green hydrogen production and battery storage is being built on the site of a former briquette factory.
Habeck considers agreement on EU supply chain law possible
Federal Economics Minister Robert Habeck (Greens) is optimistic that an agreement can still be reached in the coalition dispute over the EU Supply Chain Act.
Conservationists call for more consideration for trees
"My friend, the tree": the song by singer Alexandra became a cult song at the end of the 1960s. Even decades later, trees are still dependent on human support - especially in the coming weeks.
Elbe floods reach their peak on Wednesday
The Elbe flood reaches its peak on Wednesday and then recedes again.
Repair bonus meets with a good response in Saxony
Say goodbye to the throwaway society: in Saxony, the response to the so-called repair bonus - the financial help for consumers to repair televisions, radios and other devices - has been great. Since the start of the funding in November 2023, 1683 applications have already been approved and around 17 ..
Researchers discover 470-year-old beech tree in the Czech Ore Mountains
Researchers from the Czech Agricultural University in Prague have discovered the oldest known beech tree in the Czech part of the Ore Mountains. The beech is over 470 years old and stands on the slopes of Jansky Vrch (Johannesberg) near Jezeri Castle.
Low pollution levels in fish from the Elbe
A study by the State Environment Agency shows that fish from the Elbe are only slightly contaminated with pollutants.
More than 100 million euros for flood protection and river maintenance in Saxony
Last year, more than 100 million euros were invested in the maintenance of Saxony's state dams, flood protection and river maintenance.
Elbe flood waters continue to rise
The Elbe flood level continues to rise and will reach the same level as shortly before the turn of the year.
More environmental zones possible with new pollutant limits
So far, Saxony only has an environmental zone in the city of Leipzig. Now the European Union wants to tighten the limit values for air pollutants. This could possibly make such zones necessary in other cities as well.
Salmon in Saxony return with a delay
Never before have the first salmon returned to Saxony as late as this year. The State Office for the Environment, Agriculture and Geology announced on Friday that it was only on Wednesday that the first impressive salmon was caught during routine monitoring in the Lachsbach stream near Bad Schandau. ..
Waste production in Saxony continues to decrease
In 2022, a total of 395 kilograms of waste per inhabitant was generated in Saxony - a reduction of 38 kilograms compared to the previous year.
Flooding of post-mining lakes in the Lusatian lignite mining area with more water continues
The flooding of the post-mining lakes in the Lusatian lignite mining region continued in 2023 with more water than in previous years.
Minister: State of forests remains a cause for concern
According to the state government, Saxony's forests remain a permanent patient. "There is no all-clear in Saxony's forests. Their condition remains poor and continues to be a cause for concern. The climate crisis and bark beetle are leaving deep wounds," said Forestry Minister Wolfram Günther (Green ..
Saxony repairs: More than 1,100 applications for repair bonuses
Cell phone broken, washing machine not turning? Anyone who has this problem fixed can now receive a repair bonus in Saxony. Dozens of applications are received every day.
Saxony repairs: More than 1,100 applications for repair bonuses
Cell phone broken, washing machine not turning? Anyone who has this problem fixed can now receive a repair bonus in Saxony. Dozens of applications are received every day.
Remediation of the uranium mining legacy in Saxony completed
The federally owned Wismut has completed the remediation of one of the largest uranium mining contaminated sites in Saxony. Over the past 30 years, around 300 million euros have been invested in the preservation of the Helmsdorf industrial tailings management facility on the outskirts of Zwickau.
Billion-euro payment for RWE coal phase-out permitted
Energy companies such as RWE are to receive billions from the state to phase out coal. Is this in line with competition law? Yes, according to the EU Commission - at least with regard to one company.
Saxony demands clarity for eastern German coalfields
Saxony has demanded clarity for its own coalfields following the EU Commission's decision to compensate the energy company RWE. "The one-sided decision in favor of the compensation payment for RWE is a disappointment from Saxony's point of view. One gets the impression that the federal government is ..
No decision on environmental damage caused by former GDR companies
A funding dispute between the federal government and the states of Saxony and Thuringia regarding the costs of cleaning up environmental damage caused by former GDR state-owned companies remains unresolved at the Federal Constitutional Court. The highest German court rejected applications by the two ..
Federal states want faster wolf culls from spring
Federal states that are particularly affected want to make it possible to shoot wolves more quickly at the start of the 2024 grazing season with uniform state ordinances. Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania's Environment Minister Till Backhaus (SPD) announced corresponding talks in Münster on Friday. The ..