A competition in the Groß-Gerau district showcases opportunities for greater biodiversity on balconies, windowsills and roof terraces
In the district-wide competition "Climate Balcony 2026," three participants were awarded prizes for the design of their balconies and roof terraces. First place went to Rita Langsteiner from Rüsselsheim, followed by Marianne Schnittler from Nauheim and Liliane Althaus, also from Rüsselsheim.
The award ceremony took place on Tuesday, September 15th, at the Groß-Gerau district office as part of Climate Adaptation Week. According to the district, around 30 participants and other interested parties were in attendance.
Vouchers for the top three finishers
Entries for the competition included balconies, windowsills, and roof terraces designed in a natural style. After the application period ended, a panel of experts evaluated the entries. The three winners received vouchers for a regional garden center worth up to €150.
First place went to Rita Langsteiner from Rüsselsheim. Second place went to Marianne Schnittler from Nauheim, and third place was taken by Liliane Althaus from Rüsselsheim.
The award ceremony was accompanied by a lecture by Dr. Eva Distler on "Biodiversity and Climate Adaptation on the Balcony." Among other things, she discussed how even small spaces can be designed as habitats for insects and which plants are suitable for climate- and insect-friendly planting.
Greenery as a contribution to climate adaptation
According to the organizers, greened balconies and windowsills can support both biodiversity and the microclimate in the immediate living environment.
“Every greened balcony, every planted windowsill and every roof terrace can make a small contribution to greater biodiversity and a better microclimate,” said Isabel Bachem, project manager at IKZ Climate Protection.
The competition is part of the work of the inter-municipal cooperation on climate protection. The project is funded, among other things, by the German Federal Government as part of the German Adaptation Strategy to Climate Change.
Further information can be found on the website of the climate protection project in the Groß-Gerau district.
(DISTRICT OF GROSS-GERAU – RED/PSKGG)
Featured image: The three main winners (from left): Rita Langsteiner, Marianne Schnittler and Liliane Althaus. Photo: District Administration
