Germany is investing billions of euros in expanding its infrastructure and in the energy transition. These investments are important and necessary.

But another piece of infrastructure that is just as important is often overlooked: our forests.

They are far more than just a collection of trees. Forests purify our air, store carbon, protect the soil, replenish groundwater, regulate the water cycle, and—especially during hot summers—provide natural cooling for our landscapes and cities.

In recent years in particular, drought, heat, storms, and pest infestations have taken a heavy toll on our forests. Many forest areas now require active support so that they can continue to fulfill their vital functions for future generations.

Investing in forests is investing in our future

When billions are being poured into roads, railways, power grids, and energy facilities, the protection and restoration of our forests should be given comparable priority.

We are committed to ensuring that the federal and state governments invest significantly more in the future of our forests—for example, by:

• the conversion to climate-resilient mixed forests,
• protecting important drinking water and spring areas,
• the restoration of damaged forest areas,
• natural water retention through wetlands, depressions, and—where ecologically appropriate—small forest ponds or water retention areas,
• the preservation of habitats for animals and plants.

Water is our most important resource

A healthy forest acts as a natural water reservoir. It absorbs precipitation, slowly releases it into the soil and groundwater, and helps mitigate both flooding and periods of drought.

Especially in times of increasing heat and prolonged droughts, this function is becoming increasingly important. Every preserved and healthy forest helps cool our landscape, retain water in the region, and ensure people’s quality of life in the long term.

Investing in forests means investing in climate, nature, and water conservation—and thus in our shared future.