Dr Michael Henze is an expert in landscape gardening and structural greening at the German Federal Association of Gardening, Landscaping and Sports Ground Construction (BGL). As an important head of GaLaBau, he contributes his extensive expertise as a member of the expert jury of the GREEN-BLUE PATH framework programme, where he is responsible for reviewing and approving applications for the latest green-blue solutions.

In our interview, he explains the importance of climate adaptation, the role of green-blue infrastructure in gardening and landscaping and how the GREEN-BLUE PATH of GaLaBau contributes to the effective implementation of such measures.

Why are climate adaptation measures important today?

Climate adaptation is crucial today, as climate change is making extreme weather events such as heatwaves and heavy rainfall more frequent. Green-blue infrastructure in gardening and landscaping, such as climate-resilient greenery, climate trees or smart rainwater management solutions, can help make cities more resilient to these events by helping to cool them down and reduce flooding.

What is green-blue infrastructure in gardening and landscaping?

Green-blue infrastructure in gardening and landscaping includes various elements that offer ecological as well as economic and social benefits. These include green roofs, rainwater management systems such as rainwater retention basins and infiltration systems, near-natural watercourses such as ditches and ponds, as well as green strips, parks and unsealing measures. This infrastructure contributes to climate adaptation, biodiversity conservation, improved air and water quality and the creation of habitats and recreational areas in urban areas. The German Federal Association of Gardening, Landscaping and Sports Field Construction will be showcasing specific measures of the sponge city concept at its exhibition stand in Hall 3A this year.

Why are climate adaptation measures particularly important in gardening and landscaping?

Climate adaptation is particularly important in gardening and landscaping, as this sector is directly linked to the design and development of urban and rural landscapes. By integrating green-blue infrastructure, horticulture can help to make cities more resilient to the effects of climate change. This includes measures such as creating cooling green spaces, reducing heat islands, managing rainwater and promoting biodiversity. Through these adaptations, the horticultural sector can contribute to improving the quality of life in urban and rural areas while reducing the environmental impact of climate change.

How does the GaLaBau green-blue path support the implementation of climate adaptation measures?

The green-blue path plays an important role at GaLaBau when it comes to climate adaptation, as it presents visitors with concrete solutions and innovations in gardening and landscaping that help to make cities and communities more climate-resilient. Various techniques, services and products that are part of the green-blue infrastructure, such as green roofs and façades, sustainable software solutions, rainwater management systems, permeable paving, gutter systems, ecological drainage and sustainable landscaping concepts will be presented on this path. The trade fair thus offers a platform to bring together experts, companies and interested parties to exchange ideas and information on the latest developments in the field of climate adaptation.