An open-source app is encouraging many people in Berlin to adopt and care for city trees, treating them like pets. This initiative, called Gieß den Kiez, which means “water your neighborhood,” provides users with a city map that marks around 900,000 street trees with GPS pins. Once users choose a tree to adopt, they receive real-time instructions for watering it based on the tree’s species, age, weather conditions, and location. Trees that need water are marked with orange or red dots, and the app also shows where users can find public water taps or pumps.
In Europe, trees are increasingly recognized as important parts of urban life, not just for decoration. With temperatures in Berlin rising above 103°F (39°C) this summer, the shade offered by trees can be essential for keeping the city cool and safe. CityLAB Berlin developed the app, which started in 2020, and it gained popularity during the COVID-19 lockdowns when people were eager to connect with nature. Users like Amanda Gläser-Bligh have found the app to be enjoyable, comparing it to a video game. The app encourages users to take care of trees without feeling awkward about it.
The developers of the app aim to help individuals view trees as pets that need care. The app has created a new activity for people and inspired other cities, such as Potsdam, Leipzig, Magdeburg, and the 17th arrondissement of Paris, to create their own versions using the open-source code. Research has shown that trees are effective in providing relief during hot summers. They offer shade, enhance air quality, and help reduce city temperatures. Studies in the U.S. found that areas with more trees spend less on healthcare, while an Australian study revealed that communities with ample tree cover are mentally healthier than those without. Trees also provide a break from the hard surfaces and loud advertising common in urban areas. Gläser-Bligh has taken care of a Linden tree, which she named “Linda,” contributing to the local environment by supporting bees with its flowers.
What are your thoughts on this app and its impact on urban spaces?
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Source: Good News Network, by Andy Corbley