Schönsee, Germany – A new partnership between Centrum Bavaria Bohemia (CeBB) and the Bavarian Nature Conservation Association (BUND Naturschutz in Bayern e.V. – BN) aims to bolster conservation efforts along the “Green Belt” – a unique ecological corridor stretching across the border between Bavaria and the Czech Republic. The collaboration, formalized on March 2nd, 2026, seeks to enhance the Green Belt’s role as a vital habitat, a symbol of overcoming totalitarianism and a learning center for democracy and European thought.
The agreement was signed by Thomas Ebeling, District Administrator of Schwandorf and Chairman of Bavaria Bohemia e.V., Martin Geilhufe, State Chairman of BUND Naturschutz in Bayern e.V., and Prof. Hubert Weiger, BUND’s Commissioner for the Green Belt, during a joint event at the CeBB in Schönsee. This partnership underscores a long-standing commitment to preserving the cross-border natural and cultural landscape, building upon existing cooperation with Czech partner organizations. The initiative as well aims to advance the Green Belt’s candidacy for UNESCO World Heritage status, recognizing its significance as both a natural and cultural treasure.
Strengthening a Unique Ecological and Historical Corridor
The Green Belt, formed along the former inner-German border, has evolved into a haven for biodiversity and a testament to the region’s history. It represents a unique opportunity for cross-border conservation, connecting fragmented habitats and providing refuge for numerous plant and animal species. According to a description on the Green Belt website, the CeBB, established in 2006, serves as a cultural hub, information center, and key partner for Bavarian and Czech regions.
“The Centrum Bavaria Bohemia and BUND Naturschutz in Bayern e.V., along with the National BUND Competence Centre for the Green Belt in Nuremberg, have long been committed to preserving and developing this cross-border natural and cultural space, in close cooperation with Czech partner organizations,” stated Landrat Thomas Ebeling. “We want to intensify this collaboration and deepen it within the framework of today’s cooperation agreement. This also includes the common goal of establishing the Green Belt as a UNESCO World Heritage Site – as a natural and cultural heritage.”
CeBB’s Role in Cross-Border Cooperation
The Centrum Bavaria Bohemia (CeBB) plays a crucial role in fostering cultural exchange and collaboration between Bavaria and the Czech Republic. Established in 2006 and supported by the Bavaria Bohemia e.V. Association, the CeBB functions as a bilingual contact point and coordinating center for cultural initiatives. In 2016, it was designated as a coordination center for Bavarian-Czech cultural cooperation by the Bavarian State Ministry of Education and Culture, Science and Art and the Bavarian State Ministry of Family, Labour and Social Affairs. The CeBB’s Facebook page provides updates on its activities and events.
The partnership with BUND Naturschutz will further enhance these efforts, focusing on the Green Belt’s ecological importance and its symbolic value as a reminder of the region’s past. The Green Belt serves not only as a vital ecological corridor but also as a poignant symbol of overcoming division and promoting democratic values.
Martin Geilhufe, State Chairman of BUND Naturschutz in Bayern e.V., emphasized the importance of this collaboration, stating (as reported by lifePR), “The Green Belt will be further strengthened by this cooperation agreement: as a habitat network and treasure trove of biodiversity, a unique symbol of overcoming totalitarianism and a place of learning for democracy and European thinking.”
Looking ahead, the joint efforts of CeBB and BUND Naturschutz will focus on implementing conservation measures, promoting sustainable tourism, and raising awareness about the Green Belt’s unique significance. The pursuit of UNESCO World Heritage status remains a key objective, promising increased protection and recognition for this remarkable landscape.
What are your thoughts on the importance of cross-border conservation efforts like this one? Share your comments below, and help spread the word about the Green Belt’s vital role in preserving both nature and history.