A participatory event near Mathildenhöhe begins on April 30th
The science city of Darmstadt will officially launch its city-wide "Unpaving" campaign on Thursday, April 30, 2026. To kick things off, starting at 3 p.m., an area of approximately 30 square meters, previously partially paved, near the Mathildenhöhe will be transformed into a natural perennial flower bed.
Participatory project for citizens
The area is located between Erbacher Straße, Stiftstraße, and Prinz-Christians-Weg, near the collegiate church. The project is intentionally designed as a participatory initiative: in addition to representatives from administration and politics, the BUND (Friends of the Earth Germany), urban nature guides, and local residents are also involved.
The aim is to provide practical experience on how sealed surfaces – such as front gardens, driveways or parking spaces – can be transformed into greened, natural areas.
Climate protection and biodiversity in focus
As climate protection officer Michael Kolmer and mobility officer Paul Georg Wandrey emphasize, only native and climate-tolerant plants will be used. These are intended to promote biodiversity and simultaneously serve as a model for private gardens.
In addition, two small biotopes will be created on the area as habitats for animals and plants.
Professional support and information
The implementation is being overseen by natural garden expert Eva Distler. The Office for Climate Protection and Climate Adaptation and the Environmental Office will also be on site to provide information about natural gardening.
Due to limited capacity, prior registration via email is required.
Further projects planned throughout the year
As part of the campaign, further sealed surfaces within the city will be unsealed and greened on a model basis throughout the year. The initiative is part of the city's measures for climate adaptation and sustainable urban development.
(DARMSTADT – RED/PSD/stip)
