Aarhus Municipality creates synergy between nature and climate adaptation in the swamp Geding-Kasted Mose.
Aarhus Municipality has taken a holistic approach combining climate adaptation and biodiversity into a large natural area. Under the name Rewilding Geding-Kasted Mose, the municipality seeks to promote more dynamic wildlife by introducing pastures for natural cattle, wild horses and water buffalo, in order to make the area self-regulating.
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MILLION M3 CLEAN DRINKING WATER ANNUALLY COMES FROM GROUNDWATER
The rewilding concept is about creating year-round pasture and giving animals and water more space in the landscape. The latter occurs by opening drainage and un- restraining streams and wetlands, which are also well-known climate adaptation methods that reduce flood risk in nearby urban areas. The methods include reduced drainage of organic soils which has the added benefit of increasing soil carbon levels.
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Reintroducing pasture animals mirrors ancient ecosystems before mass human intervention, protecting the area’s many rare species from disappearing.
Aarhus Municipality has added a further 36.5 hectares of former farmland to the natural area. This shift from intensive farming to conservation generates a significant annual saving of greenhouse gas emissions. Moreover, groundwater is protected in this additional area. The municipality’s goal is to establish a 140-hectare cohesive conservation area which contributes to climate protection, increases biodiversity and creates better experiences in nature, improving quality of life for citizens.
How the Global Goals are addressed
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Good health and well-being
The area has become a green public getaway with 5.9 kilometers of new trails encouraging visitors to reconnect with nature and exercise, thus improving mental health and well-being.
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Clean Water and Sanitation
Vulnerable groundwater is protected by converting 36.5 hectares from farmland into a natural area. The groundwater provides approximately three million m3 drinking water for citizens every year.
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Life on Land
Ecosystems are protected by reintroducing ecosystem-regulating species which help increase biodiversity and reduce the need for supplementary inputs year-round.
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