Nature Conservation and Water Protection

The funding program "Nature Conservation and Water Protection" of the German Federal Environmental Foundation (DBU) supports corporate, non-profit, public, and scientific initiatives in Germany that are practically committed to preserving biological diversity and improving water quality. With a clear focus on inter- and transdisciplinary approaches, the grant promotes projects in agriculture, forestry, and water management that implement cross-sectoral development concepts, integrate digital innovations, and actively involve citizens. The goal is to halt the loss of ecosystem services, make habitats more resilient to climate extremes, and simultaneously establish sustainable usage strategies. From real-world experiments to transformative governance processes to AI-based monitoring systems, innovative methods and management approaches are supported at both the operational and landscape levels.

Eligible to apply are municipal and private actors, research institutions, and civil society organizations, as well as committed citizens within the framework of citizen science. A prerequisite for funding is a practice-relevant, interdisciplinary project approach, compliance with the DBU funding guidelines, and proof of effectiveness after project completion. Evaluation focuses include innovation content, practical relevance, inter-/transdisciplinarity, digitalization potential, and sustainability aspects. Funding can be applied for at any time; required documents include a detailed project description, a financing plan, and supplementary evidence according to DBU guidelines. This funding topic offers a long-term opportunity to realize sustainable solutions for the protection of biodiversity and aquatic ecosystems in Germany.