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VCD Presses Berlin to Link Tree-Planting With Safer Streets and Transit Under New Climate Law

The new climate adaptation law sets a goal of more than one million trees by 2040 after a citizen proposal shaped its design.

Overview

  • Germany’s Verkehrsclub Deutschland urged Berlin to coordinate tree-planting with pedestrian, cycling and public-transport planning as the city moves to implement its climate adaptation law.
  • VCD board member Gregor Altmann said trees, safe walking and cycling routes, and attractive public transport must be planned together rather than in separate silos.
  • The group called for safe crossings and pathways to be integrated wherever new trees are planted and for street construction to include green and water areas.
  • The law, passed Monday by the Berlin state parliament, requires more green spaces, expanded rainwater management and binding heat-action plans at both state and district levels.
  • The legislation targets more than one million trees by 2040, more than double today’s stock, with advocates arguing that joint planning strengthens climate resilience and saves resources.