Further training for certified landscape guides: Climate change in the Swabian Alb

Swabian Alb took place at the Jewish Museum Göppingen. Julian Stolz, employee of the Geopark and Master's student of physical geography, organized the day with an exciting program on the effects of climate change on the Swabian Alb.

16 participants from various districts took part in the training, which began with a theoretical part in the museum. Together with Julian, the landscape guides examined the global and regional effects of climate change, discussed its specific impact on the ecosystem and looked at the SDGs and education for sustainable development (ESD). In the second part, the group went out into nature: In a nearby forest, the participants were able to experience first-hand the effects of bark beetle infestation, which is favored by milder winters and longer warm spells.

Julian Stolz provided regional refreshments with home-baked bread made from acorn flour and fresh pear juice from the orchards of the Swabian Alb - a taste experience that made the cultural ties to the region tangible.

Respectfully resolving conflicts during guided tours

Landscape guides also encounter critical questions in their work, for example from participants who view climate change as a controversial topic. The Beutelsbach Consensus is a useful guide here: It advises presenting information neutrally and leaving opinions open so that everyone can form their own opinion. A respectful discussion promotes the maturity of visitors and invites them to evaluate complex issues for themselves.

Experience impressions of the day in a short video on Instagram here.