BUND Pilot Project: Biotope network at the municipal level – From Planning to Implementation, Baden-Württemberg (Germany)

Abstract

In Germany, the legal and planning framework for establishing a biotope network has been in place since 2002 through inclusion in the Federal Nature Conservation Act ("Bundesnaturschutzgesetz" BNatSchG). Nevertheless, there is a discrepancy between theory and practice at all planning levels. Despite a wide range of information, successes have so far been achieved in Baden-Württemberg rather intermittently, particularly at the municipal level. Various model projects have been initiated with state funding since 2015. The German Federation for the Environment and Nature Conservation (Bund für Umwelt und Naturschutz Deutschland, BUND) - one of the largest nature conservation associations in Germany - has tested the planning, implementation and safeguarding of biotope network habitat measures in two municipalities in Baden-Württemberg. This article outlines the framework conditions for the implementation of a state-wide biotope network at the municipal level. The steps from planning to implementation are described using concrete measures. The conclusion highlights the challenges and successes and shows opportunities for continued municipal commitment to a state-wide biotope network.