01.07.2026 City of Völklingen – Press Release No. 112/2026 “Edible City” continues to grow: Ten years of green sponsorship in Völklingen What began ten years ago as an idea for more edible greenery is today an example of sustainable urban development, volunteer engagement, and cross-border cooperation. The “Edible City” is also present this year at five locations in Völklingen. Plant pyramids are located in front of the New Town Hall and on Adolph-Kolping-Platz, and two raised beds are situated on Friedrich-Ebert-Platz in Ludweiler. At the Wendalinus Chapel, ground-level beds and raised beds complement the cityscape and invite people to linger, exchange ideas, and harvest. Herbs, vegetables, and snack plants are explicitly available to all citizens. The project is supported by the City of Völklingen and the Center for Education and Vocational Training Saar gGmbH (ZBB) in Burbach. It is co-financed by the European Union under the INTERREG InteGRaVert program for the Greater Region. The cross-border partner is CCAS Sarreguemines. Both institutions contribute their expertise in vocational and social integration to the project. “The ‘Edible City’ impressively demonstrates how urban greenery, climate adaptation, and social cohesion can concretely interconnect,” says Mayor Stephan Tautz. “The beds not only beautify the cityscape, they create places of encounter and make the city as a shared living space tangibly experienceable.” Over the past ten years, the project has continuously evolved. In addition to herbs and vegetables, increasingly climate-resilient plants are being used that cope better with heat and drought. In this way, the “Edible City” responds to the impacts of climate change. The location at Wendalinus Chapel holds special significance. Here, the project connects to the historical parish garden that already existed in the founding years of the chapel. Thus, today’s use is linked to the history of the place and creates a public space for nature, encounter, and community. The professional coordination and implementation are carried out in close cooperation with the city’s horticultural services. The Völklingen Adult Education Center is also involved. Furthermore, the project thrives on the continuous commitment of local volunteers. “Such projects only work because people contribute sustainably and take responsibility,” emphasizes Robert Müller, Chairman of the Wendalinus Chapel Support Association. “A small, reliable team ensures that the facilities are maintained and the project stays lively.” The “Edible City” makes sustainability visible in everyday life and shows how public spaces can be jointly shaped. Even after ten years, the project thrives on the collaboration of project partners, city actors, and volunteers. City of Völklingen, Department of Press and Public Relations New Town Hall | 66333 Völklingen Phone 0049 (0) 6898 / 13-2217 | Fax Extension 13-2007 Email: presse@voelklingen.de | Web: www.voelklingen.de
Promoting social integration and adapting to climate change
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