Harrislee in the Climate Protection Spotlight: Environmental Measures in February 2026

Harrislee as a Model Community for Climate Protection and Sustainability

In February 2026, Harrislee made it clear at the municipal level that climate protection and sustainability are no longer just empty promises – they are concrete plans, projects, and decisions that shape the future of the community. The Environmental and Sustainability Committee was at the center, addressing a variety of topics with both strategic and symbolic significance.

Heat and Cooling Planning – A Step Toward Climate Neutrality

A central topic of the meeting was the presentation of the municipal heat and cooling plan, which is set to be discussed and approved by the municipal council in March 2026. According to current figures, 82% of the buildings in Harrislee that require heating are already connected to the district heating network, with heating oil and natural gas playing only a minor role.

In strategically important areas such as Am Oxer and Petersilienweg, heat networks are particularly cost-effective. For more decentralized areas, electrification and self-generation are recommended. The firm Zeiten°Grad has been commissioned to develop the plan, and the catalog of measures includes a total of nine strategic steps to advance the heat transition in Harrislee.

Scattered Orchard Areas, Hedgerows, and Pick-your-own Forests – Recreation with a Future

In addition to energy policy, Harrislee also implemented ecological measures in the urban environment. The Nature Friends of Harrislee submitted a proposal to expand scattered orchard areas on Berghofstraße. Scattered orchard meadows are not only important for biodiversity but also for local food supply and regional identity.

In addition, the planning of a new hedgerow in the area of Berghofstraße was announced, in order to compensate for the existing hedgerow along the industrial embankment. Hedgerows are important ecological spaces that provide habitat for insects and birds and improve the water balance. The current status of the pick-your-own forest project was also presented – another example of sustainable local food supply and education.

Foodsharing, Off-leash Dog Areas, and Landfill Expansion – Tension Fields in Climate Protection

Another highlight was the presentation of the foodsharing project, which is being advanced in Harrislee by Niels Bruhn. Foodsharing is an important tool to reduce food waste and, in doing so, also indirectly reduce CO₂ emissions.

The search for a location for an off-leash dog area led the discussion toward agricultural land in the Himmernmoos area. This shows how even leisure facilities in Harrislee are to be designed in a climate-friendly way – without increasing the ecological footprint.

At the same time, Harrislee was also facing the challenge of participating in the approval process for the landfill expansion in Balzersen. The municipality is involved as a public interest entity here, which shows that sustainability also plays a role in the management of waste.

Sustainability Audit and Future Visions

In addition, the Environmental and Sustainability Committee has the task of integrating the United Nations' 17 Sustainable Development Goals into municipal processes. A sustainability audit is another milestone that makes the work transparent and supports the municipality in implementing the SDGs. A support group is planned to accelerate the process.

Outlook: Harrislee as a Pioneer in Climate Protection

With its municipal heat and cooling plan, the expansion of scattered orchard meadows, hedgerows, and pick-your-own forests, as well as active participation in regional decision-making processes, Harrislee has shown that climate protection is a comprehensive process. The community combines technical innovation with social engagement and ecological sensitivity.

In March 2026, the decision on the heat plan will be made – a milestone that positions Harrislee as a pioneer in climate protection in the region. But the work continues: With projects such as foodsharing, the off-leash dog area, and participation in landfill planning, Harrislee will remain a role model for other municipalities in the future.