The goal of the project is to bring kids closer to the nature on their own doorsteps through various nature stations that are thoughtfully designed to encourage discovery, learning, and gaining new experiences. The nature trail is being developed under the leadership of Dr. Ilona Leyer, Professor of Biodiversity and the Function of Ecosystems at Hochschule Geisenheim University, and Hanka Kunert, a student of the Landscape Architecture and Landscape Planning M.Sc. program. Kunert has previously tackled this topic in her bachelor’s thesis, which she wrote on the topic of making nature tangible for children. Now she is in the process of developing the concept and bringing the trail to life.
“People who already developed a love of nature as a child are more likely to advocate for it later in life. We want to show kids how exciting and worthy of protection our indigenous animals and plants – and we want to do this in a way that’s fun for them and sparks their interest,” explains Kunert. “And visitors to Geisenheim can of course also enjoy the trail!”
The project is being funded through the Castell NaturSchatz account offered by Fürstlich Castell'sche Bank. Customers of the bank can choose between three different environmental projects that they would like to support when opening an account, including the kids’ nature discovery trail being developed by Hochschule Geisenheim University. Of the current total rate of interest of 1.80% p.a. (as of April 30, 2025), 0.40% goes directly towards the chosen project as a personal contribution by the customer. The bank increases this contribution by 0.80%, bringing it to a total of 1.20%.
This partnership shows how nature conservation, the transfer of knowledge, and sustainable financial products can go hand in hand,” emphasizes Professor Ilona Leyer. “We are delighted with the trust and support Fürstlich Castell’sche Bank is offering us.”
The nature discovery trail is currently still in the design phase, with a planned opening close to the university campus in early 2026.
