Berlin waters in risk: too little care, too much pollutants!

Berlin waters in risk: too little care, too much pollutants!

In Berlin, the State Association of the Bund for the Environment and Nature Conservation (BUND) has published a comprehensive analysis of small waters in the capital. The investigations that have been running since 2020 were recently completed with the data collected in 2023 from the districts of Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg, Mitte, Spandau and Treptow-Köpenick. The results show a mixed picture that can be interpreted both positively and negatively depending on the point of view.

positive signs and challenges

Compared to other districts, the Berlin-Warschauer area cuts Urstromtal more gratifying, since the groundwater level is higher, which has a positive effect on water availability. In addition, the strong rainfall of the last winter led to the fact that many waters that had been dried up for years lead water again. "It is really crazy to see how some ponds that were considered dry holes for a long time have filled again," commented Prauser.

However, the condition of the waters also brings significant challenges. Often they are either too little or too much cared for. While in other cases, the bank of the Röhicht and trees make life difficult for amphibians, green areas are often cleaned so thoroughly that the animals can no longer find suitable winter quarters. The federal government argues that simple maintenance measures could suffice to improve the habitats and protect biodiversity.

One of the greatest concerns of the conservationists are the negative effects of dirty rainwater. Pollutants and nutrients that drain from roads and roofs come into the water and can cause considerable damage. The federal government is therefore committed to the construction of cleaning systems, such as retention floor filters, as already installed at the Halensee, where the water is filtered by a newly created reed zone.

In addition, it is required that the Senate also uses the European Water Framework Directive (WRRL) to the small waters. There is currently not even a complete cadastre, which is why the federal government had to collect the data situation from various sources in order to obtain a comprehensive picture of the situation.

Overall, the analysis of small waters in Berlin shows both progress and major challenges that urgently need to be tackled. The results of the investigation will undoubtedly shape future discussions about the protection and maintenance of these important ecosystems. More information about the results and the condition of the Berlin waters can be found in a detailed report on taz.de .