Expert opinion Campus Helmholtz Zentrum Berlin Sustainable development of the Helmholtz Zentrum Adlershof research campus

The Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin (HZB) not only conducts sustainable research, it also strives to operate as sustainably as possible. Biodiversity is part of its development. The planning and design of the open spaces on the Adlershof campus will contribute to the preservation of biodiversity and improve the quality of stay for employees. It is also about making it easier for visitors to find their way around the entrance area.



In terms of sustainability, a holistic approach is taken. This includes an overall ecological concept with. Listing of suitable site-appropriate vegetation and its maintenance. In order to preserve or create habitats for animals and plants, a near-natural design and redesign of the outdoor facilities is planned. In this way, insect mortality is counteracted by an appropriate ecological design of the campus and its green spaces.



The measures include the creation, maintenance and care of alternative habitat structures and recreational areas in the open space. A sealed area intended for later development will be broken up in a grid pattern and planted with tall shrubs and grasses until construction begins. The lawns will be upgraded to meadows, herb terraces or perennial areas. Simple fences are transformed into biotopes and eye-catchers through differentiated planting. South-facing wall surfaces that heat up in summer are transformed into climatically balanced areas through wall greening.

Seating and a spatial design with planted gabions create and enhance areas for employees.