MSN Klima(at)-Natu(u)r

Pollinating insects are essential for nature and agriculture, but their numbers are declining sharply due to climate change and habitat fragmentation. Ecologically managed roadsides can function as important corridors for plant and animal species and contribute to biodiversity, soil quality, and climate adaptation. This aligns with the European Nature Restoration Regulation. The project focuses on applying new and existing knowledge and experience in the Netherlands and North Rhine–Westphalia.
Through the exchange of knowledge between municipalities (NL–NRW), the management of roadsides will be improved. Practical demonstrations at several locations will showcase different forms of ecological management, adapted machinery, phased mowing, and the requirements for breeding habitats. This knowledge will be directly translated into practical measures. Workshops, field excursions, information boards, and meetings will ensure active involvement of practitioners, residents, policymakers. This increases understanding, acceptance and support, which is essential for the continuity of ecological management.
Scientific knowledge will be applied in practice by locally processing grass cuttings using bokashi into a soil improver for agriculture, with minimal transport. This will generate regional experience that will lower costs for roadside management and agricultural businesses and may develop into a structurally applicable business case in the NL/NRW region.
The project promotes cross-border cooperation by comparing instruments for agri-environmental management in the Netherlands and NRW, analysing success factors, legal and administrative barriers. This will give participants insight into the future prospects of these schemes on both sides of the border.
In this way, the project contributes to improving ecological verge management, achieving the goals of the European Nature Restoration Regulation, and strengthening the climate resilience of nature and agriculture.