Cologne's Nature Conservation Policy: Designation of the NSG "Auf dem Dreißiger" and Current Debates

Designation of the NSG "Auf dem Dreißiger" – A Milestone for Cologne's Biodiversity

In February 2026, the city of Cologne took another step toward stronger nature conservation policy. With the planned designation of the nature conservation area N 25 "Auf dem Dreißiger," a significant contribution to the protection of endangered species and biotopes is being made. The 9.2-hectare area is located to the west of the Rhine, at the border with Wesseling, and lies between the already protected areas N 6 and N 7. The goal of the designation is to protect FFH species such as the natterjack toad and the crested newt, as well as to ensure the long-term preservation of structurally rich biotopes. The designation also contributes to cooling capacity, biodiversity, and microclimatic improvements, particularly through water retention.

Landscape Plans and Procedures: Transparent and Streamlined Processes

The designation is being carried out in accordance with § 20 (2) of the North Rhine-Westphalia Nature Conservation Act (LNatSchG NRW) via a simplified procedure. This means that the administration has already submitted a preliminary draft text, a boundary map, and a Strategic Environmental Assessment. The procedural acceleration is justified in this case, as the reactions to the planned designation were assessed as "consistently positive." This underscores the broad support from the population and nature conservation organizations.

Current Debates in the Nature Conservation Advisory Committee: From Fencing to Camera Surveillance

In February 2026, a meeting of the Nature Conservation Advisory Committee took place, during which numerous current topics were discussed. In addition to the designation of the NSG "Auf dem Dreißiger," local concerns were also in the foreground. For example, issues such as tree felling, tree and soil damage caused by fair-like events, and unauthorized activities in landscape protection areas were addressed. In particular, several inquiries were raised in the Landscape Protection Area Zündorfer Groov (L20), including the felling of a weeping willow that is characteristic of the local image and the installation of fencing structures.

The question of GDPR-compliant camera surveillance was also discussed – particularly in relation to endangered plane trees. The administration was asked to implement this in practice in order to protect both the trees and privacy.

Working Groups and Future Prospects: From Artificial Turf to Cycling

As part of the meeting, working groups were also established to address topics such as artificial turf, microplastics, lighting, woodcutting, cycling paths, and the updating of the landscape plan. These initiatives show that the city of Cologne is not only reacting to short-term problems, but is also pursuing long-term strategies for sustainability and environmental improvement.

The discussions in the Nature Conservation Advisory Committee highlight that Cologne's nature conservation policy is not only taking place at the planning level, but also in concrete implementation and in dialogue with the population.

Outlook: Strengthening Climate and Nature Conservation Policy in Cologne

The designation of the NSG "Auf dem Dreißiger" is another step toward sustainable urban development. In a period in which climate change and biodiversity loss are at the center of global debates, the work of Cologne's administration and the Nature Conservation Advisory Committee serves as an important example. The planned measures – from the preservation of sensitive ecosystems to the inclusion of citizens in decision-making processes – show how cities can act as agents of nature conservation.