Re:GenerationClimate Change in a Natural World Heritage Site - and What We Can Do About It

The human-made climate change concerns Sanssouci Park in Potsdam, too. Due to extreme heat, intense sun exposure and continuous periods of dryness, nearly 80 percent of the trees in the UNESCO World Heritage Site are now damaged. Since 2017, between 160 and 300 of these trees have had to be felled each year.

Gardeners and conservationists at the Prussian Palaces and Gardens Foundation (SPSG) have long been exploring ways in which the trees’ resistance can be strengthened to cope with the effects of climate change. In the open-air exhibition titled ‘Re:Generation. Climate Change in a Natural World Heritage Site - and What We Can Do About It’ taking place at the centre of Sanssouci Park, the SPSG aims to share its findings with visitors and to engage in dialogue with them. Numerous approaches, strategies and examples of progress are presented at 30 exhibition stations. Furthermore, those interested can get tips on how they can stand up for environmental and climate protection on a day-by-day basis.

Near the Western Vineyard Terraces, the focus is on water, while to the north west of the Chinese House, information is provided on the life and death of trees. While problems and challenges will be highlighted, ideas, scientific approaches and pioneering experiments will be presented, too. For example, visitors will become acquainted with a promising new generation of trees in an ‘oak nursery’. They can also experience a variety of alternative and water-saving irrigation methods in action. The Prince Pückler Museum - Branitz Park and Palace Foundation will also be hosting a station and presenting its tree university as part of the "Historic Gardens in a Changing Climate. Perspectives for the Green Cultural Heritage of Sanssouci and Branitz" co-operation.

A range of ideas on how visitors can get involved rounds off the exhibition. Particularly important is the need for us all to campaign together to protect the climate and nature. For, after all, only if we are united in this can we shape a future for the world heritage. We would be delighted to have you on board, too!

Patron: Claudia Roth, Minister of State for Culture and the Media

Accompanying programme

A varied programme of events accompanies the exhibition: school classes are invited to guided tours and workshops, experts hold podium talks and debates, gardeners explain the park using real-life examples. Cooperation partners such as the Fürst Pückler Museum Foundation and the Botanical Garden of the University of Potsdam share their knowledge. And artists from the worlds of theatre, literature and dance present their particular perspective on the subjects of climate change and sustainability. More information on individual events to follow shortly.