Berlin's Senate Administration for Urban Development is continuing the "Stadtbäume für Berlin" campaign this autumn. Around 600 new trees are planned for Lichtenberg, Marzahn-Hellersdorf, Treptow-Köpenick and Pankow. Funding comes from donations by individuals and businesses.
Background
The initiative has been running since 2012. Storms, disease and construction work had noticeably reduced the stock of street trees in previous years. The goal is to plant up to 10,000 additional trees by 2017. So far, around 4,200 have been funded and planted.
Why this matters for property owners
Tree-lined streets have a measurable effect on location quality. Trees improve the microclimate, filter particulate matter and reduce street noise. Anyone looking to buy or sell an apartment in Berlin knows the difference between a bare street and a green one. In practice, this affects demand from tenants and buyers, and by extension rental income and sale prices.
Public infrastructure investment by the state amounts to an upgrade of the immediate surroundings at no cost to property owners. This is particularly relevant in boroughs that previously had less green space.
How to participate
Senator Andreas Geisel is calling on Berlin residents and businesses to support the campaign. A city website allows donors to select specific unplanted locations. Each tree costs 500 euros. Donors receive a personal plaque on request.
