Schwalmstadt is actively fighting against climate change: SDGs in focus!

Schwalmstadt is actively fighting against climate change: SDGs in focus!

Schwalmstadt, Deutschland - Schwalmstadt relies on sustainable development and is committed to the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS), also known as the global sustainability goals. These were adopted by the United Nations in 2015 and are binding by 2030. The topic should not only be discussed at an international level, but should also be anchored locally, which impressively demonstrates the city of Schwalmstadt. As nh24 , the 199. Youth press conference in March 2025 was an important step to raise awareness of young people between 15 and 20 years for these topics. Joshua Steib, a youth delegate of the UN, informed about the SDGs and their importance, while Verena Barth, environmental engineer and climate protection manager of the city, who impressively explained to Schwalmstadt.

The SDGs are more than mere guidelines; They are intended to promote social economy and ecologically sustainable development. Barth in particular emphasizes the number 7 goals (affordable and clean energy), number 11 (sustainable cities and municipalities) and number 13 (measures for climate protection). These goals should lead the city in the future and help to actively tackle the challenges of climate change at the local level.

not only words, but action

In Schwalmstadt, there is no shortage of measures to implement these goals. From the digitization of the administration to the renovation of properties with photovoltaic systems to energy advice for citizens: inside - the city has already set many switches. The removal of areas and the greening with bee -friendly plants are also steps in the right direction. Despite this progress, Barth sees great potential, especially when integrating young people and the wider public. There are currently only a few offers that specifically aim to inspire young people for sustainability, apart from school projects and promotions in kindergartens.

A central concern of Barth is better communication with various institutions to avoid the impression that sustainability is only an "additional task". "We all have to pull together and become aware of the importance of these topics," she emphasizes. The complexity of the matter and the often missing personnel and financial resources represent further hurdles. Therefore, everyone should take individual small but relevant steps to contribute to the implementation of the SDGs.

climate under pressure

The global challenges, as described in the United Nations SDG progress report, are enormous. As BMZ , the current measures to combat the climate crisis are insufficient. Against the background that greenhouse gas emissions have increased again since 2020, it is due to cities like Schwalmstadt, and to advance with a good example. Worldwide, more extreme weather events, such as heat waves and floods, are the order of the day and lead to drastic changes in our ecosystems.

Schwalmstadt follows a strategic approach: Since July 2023, climate protection management has been set up, which was based on the integrated climate protection concept, which was decided in March 2022. This program is financially funded by the Federal Environment Ministry and is said to have existed by June 2026. This Initiative should help to establish climate protection as a cross -sectional task in all areas.

Schwalmstadt has recognized both the challenges and the opportunities that the SDGs offer. The path to a sustainable and livable future is demanding, but the city has already taken the first steps.