Building forest species knowledge for schoolchildren
Long-term leader of the FCN Subgroup Forest Pedagogics – Dirk Schmechel announced his retirement
28. October 2025
Building forest species knowledge for schoolchildren
Author: Ulrike Schuth, Schutzgemeinschaft Deutscher Wald Bundesverband e.V., Germany; Photo: Inge Steinmetz
“M
ein m² Wald” (My m² Forest) is a nationwide educational project in Germany that promotes biodiversity knowledge among students aged 12 to 15. Guided by trained forest educators, students explore one square meter of forest to identify plant and animal species and place their findings in an ecological context.
Back in the classroom, students can discuss and reflect on their observations. The project aims to raise awareness of local biodiversity, foster curiosity about species, and inspire a deeper connection to nature through hands-on learning. The collected data is published on an interactive map. Additionally, the project offers training for teachers on how to convey species knowledge in their lessons. The project is funded by Deutsche Bundesstiftung Umwelt (DBU), Stiftung für Umwelt und Entwicklung Nordrhein-Westfalen und der Postcode-Lotterie. For more information: https://www.sdw.de/fuer-den-wald/unsere-projekte/waldpaedagogische-projekte/mein-m2-wald/
