First swimmers expected at Lake Seelhausen soon
Vacationers could soon be relaxing where excavators once worked: The tourist use of Lake Seelhausen is taking shape - but not without hurdles.
News zu #Environment
Presentation plans for Wismut heritage are slimmed down
The legacy of the uranium mining company Wismut is to be reappraised and exhibited at two locations. This has been a long time coming. However, it is now clear that the plans need to be scaled back.
Balance sheet: Saxony's government receives red card for company cars
Who drives clean, who drives dirty? The new environmental balance sheet from Deutsche Umwelthilfe shows that Saxony's ministers are a mixed bag when it comes to CO2 emissions.
Lime treatment from the air for Saxon forests
The consequences of the acid rain at the end of the last century are still measurable in the forest soils in Saxony. Lime is now being spread again to improve the situation.
Focus on wild cats on World Cat Day
Reach out to the paw: The German Federation for the Environment and Nature Conservation calls for the protection of the European wildcat and shows how everyone can help.
Greens demand stop to Elbe expansion
The Elbe between nature conservation and shipping: for the Greens, it is clear where the path should lead in view of declining cargo handling. Towards more nature conservation and tourism as an economic factor.
Chemnitz bans water extraction from streams and rivers
Low water levels and persistent drought are an increasing threat to the flora and fauna in water bodies. Unfortunately, thunderstorms and sporadic rainfall have hardly brought any relief.
Wolf in Saxony - new territories and offspring confirmed
Wolf monitoring shows three completely new territories. In other parts of the state, known pairs of wolves have grown into a pack. Saxony's wolf region par excellence remains Upper Lusatia.
Greens: No more sacrificing forests for solar plants
Forest areas are to be used for the expansion of wind power and photovoltaic systems - a classic conflict of interest. Because nature is also being destroyed in the process.
BUND: Elbe increasingly unusable as a waterway
The Elbe is reaching historically low levels - and, according to environmentalists, is becoming increasingly unusable for freight transport. They are now calling for a radical rethink of waterway policy.
Tapinoma ant spreads in Saxony
The introduced ant species Tapinoma magnum is being discovered in more and more places in Germany. Until now, it was more common in the southwest. Now it is also appearing in Saxony.
Drought: Dresden issues water withdrawal ban
It has been too dry in Saxony for a long time. Streams and rivers have low water levels. That is why the city of Dresden is now responding.
Bark beetle situation in Saxony currently relaxed
In May and June, the experts observed an intensive swarming flight of the pests. However, there has been no major damage so far. What are the reasons?
Narrow-gauge railroads head for Brocken with steam locomotives again
Due to the high risk of forest fires, only diesel locomotives have been running on the Brocken recently. Now travelers can look forward to steam locomotives again.
American swamp crayfish detected in Leipzig
The invasive species transmits crayfish plague, which is fatal to native animals. The Natural History Museum warns of far-reaching consequences.
Tapinoma ant is spreading - how can it be recognized?
The introduced ant species Tapinoma magnum is being discovered in more and more places in Germany: until now, it was more common in the south-west. Now the first evidence has also been found in eastern Germany.
4.3 million euros for pond management in Saxony
The Free State of Saxony is supporting 88 pond farms with around 4.3 million euros. The funds are intended to counteract the increasing drought and enable sustainable pond maintenance.
Sachsenforst warns of high risk of forest fires at the weekend
Little rain, high temperatures and wind have dried out the soil in Saxony's forests. Special care is required when visiting.
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.
Greenpeace demands creditor protection for Leag restructuring
The environmental organization warns: The Leag split-up threatens to cost Saxony and Brandenburg billions. It is now calling for the two state governments to intervene.
Water turbidity in Pirk dam - authority advises against swimming
It is still unclear what is behind the oily or slimy trace. A suspicion of blue-green algae was not confirmed.
More and more Saxon rivers are heading for low water
Little rain and high temperatures in spring: many rivers in Saxony already have little water.
Stolbur plant disease also detected in Saxony
Sugar beet and potatoes in particular are at risk of crop losses. The southwest in particular has been affected so far, but the Free State is also preparing itself.
Air quality in Saxony deteriorated in 2024
Air quality in the country deteriorated last year. This was due to Saharan dust and unfavorable weather conditions in winter.
Six yellow cards for Saxony in the heat check
Too much concrete, too few trees: cities can become a sauna in summer. The "heat check" by Deutsche Umwelthilfe shows where it heats up the most - and where the least.
A new nature trail has been created at Lake Bockwitz
More than three decades ago, lignite was still being mined in the Borna-Ost/Bockwitz open-cast mine. Today, water buffalo, cattle and Boer goats graze there. An educational trail now provides information about grazing.
Dangerous oak processionary moth is being combated again
Walkers and cyclists beware: The hairs of the oak processionary moth can cause skin rashes. In many places, the pest is controlled with tiny threadworms.
Above-average levels of nitrate in Saxony's groundwater
In many regions of Germany, the groundwater is too heavily contaminated with nitrate. This also applies to Saxony - where the problems are particularly severe.
Kretschmer calls for Germany's climate targets to be adjusted
Germany wants to be climate-neutral by 2045 and not emit more greenhouse gases than can be stored again. According to Saxony's head of government, this is too early.
Research on insect species at the former inner-German border
Once the "death strip", today the former German-German border is considered a biotope. Insects are now to be recorded along the Green Belt - this should also help with an application.
One third of animal and plant species in Saxony under threat
The message for International Biodiversity Day sounds depressing. According to estimates, 150 species become extinct every day. Species extinction does not stop at Saxony either.
Studies on water storage in Lusatia planned
The phasing out of coal mining in Lusatia and climate change threaten to cause major changes to the water balance in the region. Stabilizing the hydrology is the task of several studies.
Saxon entrepreneurs plant trees in the Erzgebirge forest
Mountain meadows and trees in the Eastern Ore Mountains are endangered by climate change and recreationists. In addition to state investment in the necessary forest conversion, civic engagement also helps.
Agency renaturalizes areas and sells eco-points
A state agency in Saxony unseals old industrial ruins, renaturalizes streams or creates habitats for animals. Municipal or private developers can buy the eco-points gained in this way.
Von Breitenbuch: The days of extras are over
Saxony is forced to make savings. This applies to all departments. For the new Minister of the Environment and Agriculture, however, the glass is not half empty, but half full. He also sees the coming period as an opportunity.
190,000 trees planted in the Saxon Switzerland National Park
The national park is one of the most popular excursion and tourist regions in Bavaria. Over 9,000 hectares of flora and fauna are protected. Details of the work can be found in the new annual report.
Oper Leipzig starts season with new General Music Director
Oper Leipzig starts the new season with diversity and new accents. From musicals to world premieres - there are also signs of change backstage.
Elbe carries less water than normal
Hardly any rain has fallen in recent weeks. This also has consequences for the water level in the largest river in Saxony. Does this also have to do with climate change?
Elbe barrage on the border with Saxony could come after all
For some an economic necessity, for others a threat to nature in the Elbe Valley: the Czech Ministry of Transport is pulling the plans for a barrage out of the drawer.
Fire department in Meißen district receives new vehicles
Better prepared for forest fires: Saxony reinforces its fire departments with new special vehicles.
Sachsenforst plants five million trees in the state forest
Saxony launches a large-scale reforestation program in the state forest. But extreme weather conditions and a shortage of seeds are causing problems.
Wismut concludes cooperation agreement on remediation of contaminated sites
Wismut has acquired a great deal of expertise in the remediation of contaminated mining sites, which it now contributes worldwide. International projects are to be developed further with a new agreement.
Court overturns authorization to shoot wolves
30 dead sheep and goats - but a wolf in Upper Lusatia may not be killed for the time being. A court has stopped the planned cull and doubts the legality of the permit.
EU does not classify Erzgebirge lithium as strategic
A Saxon mining project is intended to secure Europe's battery supply - but is not prioritized by the EU. Nevertheless, the company is sticking to its plans.
Germany pours: Conference to save urban trees
Urban trees suffer particularly from drought, with thousands having to be felled every year. What can help is to be discussed at a conference in Leipzig.
Frogs on the move in Chemnitz - city calls for protection
Rising temperatures and the first rays of sunshine are not just a reason for people to be happy. Animals such as frogs also take advantage of the onset of spring - but not without danger.
Southern Brandenburg and Saxony want to become "Net Zero Valley"
Lusatia wants to score points as the first climate-neutral model region. The application has now been submitted.
Rotten branches - closures in Dresden's Great Garden
The Great Garden is Dresden's green lung. Some of the large avenues and paths are lined with ancient trees that are defying climate change - and are being cleared of natural deadwood.
Car sharing is booming - shared cars have 14 percent more users
More and more people are sharing a car. The car-sharing provider Teilauto is also growing in Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt and Thuringia: more users, more vehicles, more electric cars.
Protest - cyclists plan "zero laps" around the State Chancellery
The ADFC fears that there could be cuts in the construction of cycle paths and safety measures for cyclists in Saxony. A protest action is planned for Wednesday.
Greens and Left want to retain the repair bonus
The so-called repair bonus in Saxony is on the brink of collapse due to a lack of funds. There are voices from the Saxon trade, but also from politics, in favor of continuing the project.
Saxony examines continuation of the repair bonus
Following the change of government, it is unclear whether the repair bonus will be continued in Saxony. The Saxon Craftsmen's Association is calling for a continuation, but the financial situation is tense.
Resident parking also cheap in Saxony
Resident parking remains cheap in many cities. If Deutsche Umwelthilfe has its way, this should change. This could soon be the case in Dresden.
Four wolves provide new data on territories and movement
Four wolves in Saxony provide valuable data for science via transmitter collars. Their movements provide new insights into territorial behavior and family structures.
Climate researchers: Germany lacks a drought management system
The drought phase from 2018 to 2023 is over. But extreme dryness and drought can return at any time. How well prepared is Germany for this?
Tax on to-go packaging - debate reaches Saxony
Empty to-go cups and plastic bags clog up garbage cans and litter sidewalks - disposable waste is causing trouble in many places. Following the example of Tübingen, a tax is now also being discussed in Saxony.
Saxony's companies spend more money on environmental protection
Companies in Bavaria invested more money in environmental protection in 2022. What priorities did they set - and which sector paid the most?
The toads will soon be on their way - but they need help
Some toads leave their winter quarters as early as the beginning of February. To help them survive the dangerous migration, helpers set up protective fences - in some places, more volunteers are needed.
Riesa port struggles with costs - new terminal to help
Blocked transport routes and rising costs: the collapse of the Carola Bridge is upsetting the balance of shipping on the Elbe. Why some see the port of Riesa as a glimmer of hope.
Study: Driving in Dresden and Leipzig is becoming less attractive
In Leipzig and Dresden, driving is increasingly becoming a test of patience. In rush-hour traffic, vehicles move at almost the speed of a cyclist.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.