Climate Protection and Environmental Policies in Wachtberg: Focus on Mobility, Heat Planning, and Wastewater Development

Environmental and Climate Policy in Wachtberg: A Monthly Summary

February 2026 was an intense month in Wachtberg's local climate and environmental policy. The Committee for Environment, Climate Protection, and Mobility addressed a wide range of topics affecting both the traffic situation and energy policy as well as wastewater development. With the goal of achieving climate neutrality by 2045, priorities were set, new projects were launched, and existing structures were re-evaluated.

Climate Neutrality Concept and Mobility Management

A central issue of the meeting was the prioritization of the measures catalog of the municipal climate neutrality concept (KNK). The committee used an evaluation matrix that took into account criteria such as cost estimation, relevance to achieving objectives, and implementation period. Particular emphasis was placed on the relevance to achieving objectives.

In addition, a status report on mobility management was presented. In total, there are 48 bus stops in the municipal area, many of which have already been made barrier-free. Further expansion is planned for 2026–2028, particularly along the new express bus line SB85. This line, which is scheduled to go into operation in December 2026, will also connect the stops in Berkum and Villip.

Another focus was the cycling infrastructure in Holzem, which is to be improved through a comprehensive reorganization. Planned measures include new signage, asphalt surfacing, and the establishment of a digital bike rental station within the inter-municipal Welo system. The evaluation of an e-charging infrastructure is also under discussion.

Heat Planning and Energy Transition

Wachtberg has reached a decisive phase in the municipal heat planning (kWP). The data of the heat plan have already been submitted to the State Office for Nature, Environment, and Consumer Protection (LANUK). A feasibility study for district heating networks in the districts of Villip, Niederbachem, and Berkum is underway and could be commissioned in June 2026.

In addition, a series of events called "Energy Dialogues" is being planned in collaboration with the North Rhine-Westphalia Consumer Center. Topics such as the heating renovation campaign, the expansion of photovoltaics, and energy-efficient building renovation will be addressed. The municipal homepage will also be redesigned to present the climate protection section more clearly.

Wastewater Development and Odor Problems

A current topic was the odor problem in Holzem. The wastewater treatment plant in Arzdorf will be shut down because the phosphorus limit value can no longer be maintained. Wastewater will be conveyed via a pressure pipeline system into the sewer system in Holzem. In order to reduce odor nuisance in the long term, a line ventilation system is planned to reduce hydrogen sulfide levels.

In addition, the Wastewater Disposal Concept (ABK) 2026–2031 was approved. With an investment volume of 16,222,000 euros, measures for renovation and measures for water compatibility are planned. The fees for the wastewater disposal operations were also set.

Conclusion: A Municipal Climate Offensive in Motion

February 2026 marks a milestone in Wachtberg's climate protection policy. With the prioritization of the climate neutrality concept, the expansion of mobility services, and the restructuring of wastewater development, the municipality is focusing on sustainable development. The communication with citizens – such as through the water risk check or the energy dialogues – underlines that climate protection is not only a technical, but also a social challenge. The coming months will show whether the planned measures can be implemented in practice – and how Wachtberg positions itself as a pioneer in climate protection.