Eppendorf Kindergarten: Hamburg’s Sole Recipient of National Award for Sustainability
Hamburg, May 17, 2026 – Kita Gänseblümchen e.V. in Eppendorf has been recognized with a prestigious national award by the German UNESCO Commission and the Federal Ministry for Family Affairs. The award ceremony took place in Dresden, highlighting the kindergarten’s exceptional commitment to sustainability. This makes Kita Gänseblümchen the only institution from Hamburg to receive such an honor in this nationwide competition, underscoring its significant contributions to sustainable education.
“Heart and Conviction” Lead to National Recognition
The joint leadership of Kita Gänseblümchen, Bodo Thürmer and Mandy Hilse-Thürmer, traveled to Dresden to accept the UNESCO award. Their presence at the ceremony emphasized the collective effort and dedication that led to this national recognition. The award celebrates institutions that demonstrate outstanding commitment to sustainable development and integrate ecological, social, and economic aspects into their educational practices.
“This award is a testament to the heart and conviction with which our team approaches the topic of sustainability every day,” stated Bodo Thürmer during the award ceremony. “We believe that education for sustainable development must start early, and we are proud to be pioneers in this field.”
Focus on Sustainability and Environmental Education
Kita Gänseblümchen e.V. has implemented a comprehensive sustainability concept over several years. This includes various projects and initiatives aimed at raising children’s awareness of environmental protection, resource conservation, and social responsibility. Key aspects of their program include:
- Ecological projects: Children are actively involved in gardening, composting, and learning about biodiversity through nature excursions.
- Resource conservation: The kindergarten emphasizes waste separation, reducing energy consumption, and using recycled materials in crafts and play.
- Fair consumption: Discussions about fair trade and responsible consumption are integrated into daily activities, promoting an understanding of global connections.
- Community involvement: The kindergarten regularly participates in local environmental initiatives and collaborates with other community organizations to promote sustainable practices.
These efforts have created an environment where children learn to appreciate nature and understand their role in protecting the planet from a young age. The jury praised Kita Gänseblümchen for its holistic approach and the deep integration of sustainability principles into all areas of its work.
Hamburg’s Only Recipient in a Nationwide Competition
The selection process for the national UNESCO award is highly competitive, involving numerous educational institutions across Germany. The fact that Kita Gänseblümchen e.V. was the sole recipient from Hamburg highlights the exemplary nature of its programs and its leading role in sustainable education within the city. The award serves as a model for other kindergartens and educational institutions, demonstrating how sustainability can be successfully integrated into early childhood education.
“We hope that our example will inspire other institutions in Hamburg and beyond to intensify their efforts in education for sustainable development,” said Mandy Hilse-Thürmer. “It is crucial that we collectively prepare the next generation to address the challenges of our time.”
Impact on the Local Community and Future Plans
The recognition of Kita Gänseblümchen has generated positive attention within the local community in Eppendorf and throughout Hamburg. Parents, educators, and local authorities have expressed their pride in the kindergarten’s achievement. The award not only acknowledges past efforts but also encourages the institution to continue its innovative work in sustainability.
In the coming months, Kita Gänseblümchen plans to expand its educational offerings further. This includes developing new projects focusing on climate protection and digital sustainability. The kindergarten also aims to share its best practices with other institutions through workshops and collaborative projects, fostering a broader network of sustainable education in Hamburg.
The award ceremony in Dresden was attended by representatives from various federal ministries, educational organizations, and environmental associations, underscoring the national importance of sustainable education. The recognition of Kita Gänseblümchen e.V. is a significant milestone for Hamburg’s educational landscape and a testament to the power of dedicated individuals and institutions in driving positive change.
The German UNESCO Commission emphasized that such initiatives are vital for achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals and for building a more resilient and equitable future. Kita Gänseblümchen e.V. stands as an inspiring example of how local action can contribute to global sustainability efforts.
The kindergarten’s leadership confirmed that the award will motivate them to continue their work with even greater enthusiasm and to further develop their educational concepts. They also expressed gratitude to the parents, staff, and local community for their continuous support, which has been instrumental in their success.
Source: https://www.abendblatt.de/hamburg/hamburg-nord/article411979820/kita-in-hamburg-eppendorf-erhaelt-besondere-auszeichnung-als-einzige-in-der-stadt-01.html
