Speyer Days of Biodiversity 2026

Biodiversity as an Educational Topic

The Days of Biodiversity are a nationwide format for teaching biological diversity — they go back to an initiative by the GEO editorial team, which has been organizing an annual "GEO Day of Biodiversity" since the 1990s. In many cities and municipalities, these days are organized by local environmental offices or nature conservation associations. Speyer has developed its own format, which primarily targets schools.

School Class Format

Unlike large city festivals or educational fairs, the Speyer format is specifically aimed at school classes. The classes are selected by lottery — a method that ensures equal opportunities between Speyer's schools. Selected classes participate in forest excursions around Speyer — mostly in the Speyer Auwald (floodplain forest), in the forests along the Rhine, or in the surrounding forest areas.

Forest Excursions

The excursions are led by forest scientists, biologists, and nature educators. They teach local flora and fauna in a practical, application-oriented way: How can different tree species be identified? Which bird species can be heard in which habitats? What do insects tell us about the condition of the forest? Which mushrooms are edible, which are poisonous? This teaching of natural history through practical activity is a proven form of environmental education.

Biodiversity as a Societal Issue

The topic of biodiversity has gained considerable societal relevance in recent years — the decline of insect populations, species extinction in forests, and the impoverishment of the cultural landscape are present in the media. The Days of Biodiversity convey this topic in an accessible and age-appropriate way to young people — an important investment in the next generation, who will later make political and personal decisions about nature conservation.

Not a Mass Format

Honest communication is important: The Speyer Days of Biodiversity are not a mass-audience event with a stage and festival tent, but rather a small-scale educational event with targeted impact. Those looking for a city festival will not find it here — those who appreciate educational work on biodiversity will find a well-thought-out format.