Annual Award for Biodiversity Conservation: Nordhorner Species Protection Prize 2024

The Fourth Nordhorner Artenschutzpreis Honours Biodiversity Champions

The city of Nordhorn recently played host to the fourth Nordhorner Artenschutzpreis award ceremony, an event aimed at recognising and celebrating individuals, clubs, schools, and companies that have made outstanding contributions to biodiversity protection in the region.

The event, held at the premises of one of the prize winners for the first time, was led by Councilor for Urban Development Milena Schauer and the municipal environmental officer Gerwin Rademaker. The awards were presented by Mayor Thomas Berling, Schauer, and Rademaker.

In the category Companies, Peter Olthaus Interior Design was the proud recipient. The design and layout of their business premises, situated in an industrial area, were highlighted as an exemplary project that showcases the importance of ecologically valuable design.

Meanwhile, in the category Clubs, Associations, and Organizations, the association Nordhorner Nachhaltig e.V. took home the top prize of 6,000 euros. The association's diverse commitment and practical work, especially in the toad project, is expected to have a lasting impact on children and young people.

The association's garden, which was visited by jury members during a pre-event tour, is a testament to the group's dedication to biodiversity. The garden, shaped in a natural and structured way, is notable in times of climate change and species extinction.

In the category Schools and Kindergartens, the Grundschule am Roggenkamp emerged victorious. The school's efforts towards biodiversity protection were commended for fostering a sense of responsibility and appreciation for the natural environment among its students.

Tying for first place in the category Individuals were Christoph Möllerke and Elias Hoffmann. Christoph Möllerke's large garden, transformed from a modern and ecologically poor space into a thriving natural haven in a short time, was a standout example of what can be achieved with dedication and innovative ideas.

Elias Hoffmann, on the other hand, was recognised for his work on transforming a school garden into a biodiverse oasis. His efforts have made a significant impact on the school's environment and the children's understanding of the importance of biodiversity.

After the award ceremony, the Olthaus family gave a tour of their company premises, emphasising the importance of allowing other organisms on this planet to have their space in species protection. Mrs. Olthaus, the hostess for the evening, stressed that sometimes, in species protection, it's good to step back and let nature take its course.

The jury, consisting of politics and administration, found choosing the winners difficult due to the great commitment and innovative ideas for nature conservation in all projects. The Nordhorner Artenschutzpreis is an important contribution to promoting nature conservation in the city of Nordhorn, and its winners serve as inspiring examples for others to follow.

The importance of civic engagement for preserving the natural environment was emphasised throughout the event. The ceremony honoured not just the winners, but also the spirit of community and collaboration that drives these efforts. The 2024 Nordhorner Artenschutzpreis ceremony initiative, undertaken by the city of Nordhorn, is a testament to the city's commitment to this cause.