Wild bee habitats established in two Essen cemeteries

In a joint exchange, the Master Plan City Green and the Meadow Strategy of the city of Essen are being discussed, with a significant focus on the creation of wild bee habitats. This initiative is spearheaded by BUND Essen, an organisation dedicated to improving all green spaces in the city to provide a diverse native plant world for pollinators.

The financial supporters and coordinators for the creation of these habitats at Ostfriedhof and Frillendorfer Friedhof are Ela Häussler and Wolfgang Laußmann. Visitors to these cemeteries can now learn about wild bees during their visit, as fear of being stung by these creatures is unfounded, according to Alfred Dübbert, a member of the AG.

Wild bees, being important pollinators but endangered in the Ruhr area, are the focus of this promotion of species protection. A quarter of all wild bees nest in above-ground structures, such as those provided by the wild bee habitats. Most wild bees, contrary to popular belief, nest in sandy, porous soil, often in the joints of driveways.

These peaceful creatures, who don't have to defend a beehive like honeybees, now have shelter and nesting opportunities at the Ostfriedhof and Frillendorfer Cemetery. The cemeteries in Essen offer an expandable blossom supply as food for bees, making these locations ideal for the wild bee habitats.

Martin Buschman, head of municipal cemeteries in Essen, supports the conceptual enhancement of cemeteries for diverse functions, including species protection. This initiative aligns with BUND Essen's goal of sharpening the view and preserving nature throughout the city.

District Council 1 provided financial support for BUND Essen to create these two new wild bee habitats in Essen. The District Mayor, Peter Valerius, expressed satisfaction in providing funds for biodiversity efforts, as these habitats are part of the future Master Plan City Green of the City of Essen and the Meadow Strategy.

In conclusion, the introduction of wild bee habitats in Essen's cemeteries is a significant step towards preserving these essential pollinators and promoting biodiversity in the city. Visitors are encouraged to learn more about these fascinating creatures during their visits to the Ostfriedhof and Frillendorfer Friedhof.