Today, environmental protection has become a major topic that is part of the political discourse, motivates countries to work together and shapes entire generations. It has many aspects – for example, measures to control climate change, reduce greenhouse gases or waste disposal and avoidance. To summarise, these are all measures in the areas of climate protection, water protection, health protection and forest protection. In terms of forest protection, the Warnowtunnel made a positive contribution to preserving our environment last weekend.
Together with the Rostock City Forestry Office, employees of the tunnel carried out a tree planting campaign in the Rostocker Heide on 9 November 2024. During this campaign, 20 trees were planted at the development stage of the so-called ‘Heister’. This is the name given to young trees that are already somewhat more grown and robust and reach a height of 1.5 – 2 metres. A meadow at the gates of the Rostocker Heide, east of the L22, between Wiethagen and the junction to Markgrafenheide, proved to be the ideal location.
The Heister trees were carefully selected by the environmental experts from the city forestry office for the local conditions and taking into account the climate changes expected in the coming years. They will enrich the flora and increase the diversity of species at the site. These include various species such as rowan, sugar maple, yellow weeping willow, sweet chestnut and tulip tree. The Warnowtunnel employees planted each specimen by hand. The expertise of the district forester and two forestry employees ensured that the trees were given the best chance of survival. Protective wires were inserted into the ground to prevent the roots from being eaten by mice, and stakes were driven in to which the heisters were attached with strings to prevent them from being bent over by the wind. Finally, protective fencing has been installed to prevent wild animals from feeding above ground.
The newly planted trees will help to improve air quality, create habitats for wildlife and increase the biodiversity of the region – a crucial step in supporting the local flora and fauna. We are convinced that everyone can make a contribution to preserving our environment. Every little gesture adds up to a big impact.
This initiative is part of a larger commitment to sustainability and shows that companies and their employees can play an important role in shaping a greener future. We are also delighted if our action raises awareness of the importance of trees and forests in our ecosystem and perhaps inspires other people to make a similar contribution.
We wish all tunnel users a safe and pleasant journey!
