The world is in the midst of a climate crisis, becoming hotter and drier. In Italy, Spain and other southern countries you can clearly see at the moment what dangers the heat poses: the forest is on fire. This is not only a big problem for people and animals, but also for the trees. After all, they are responsible for cleaning the air and thus fighting the climate crisis. The state of the forest in Germany is explained by Dr. Roland Pietsch in the 323rd episode of “Today Important”. He is head of the Harz National Park and an expert in the field of forestry.
Due to the many dry phases in recent years, the forest is doing badly. It does rain from time to time, but never long enough or hard enough to provide the trees with a sustainable supply of water. The roots are too deep for that, explains Dr. Roland Pietsch. The water doesn’t reach the roots at all and when it rains, the soil is too dry to absorb it. Spruces in particular have shaped the forest landscape in Germany, but now they are dying and leaving a sad picture in the Harz National Park. Pietsch makes it clear that rising temperatures are to blame: “The climate crisis is the cause of these problems.”
Sure, opinionated, on the 12: “important today” is not just a news podcast. We set topics and initiate debates – with attitude and sometimes uncomfortable. Host Michel Abdollahi and his team of stern and RTL reporters speak to the most exciting people from politics, society and entertainment. They let all voices have their say, both the quiet and the loud. Anyone who hears “important today” starts the day well-informed and can have a well-founded say.
In order to fight against the climate crisis and the dying of spruce trees, the Harz National Park leaves the dead spruce trees standing. New trees will grow underneath. The forests are renaturing themselves – at least as long as there is no steppe or desert climate. That too cannot be ruled out in the distant future, but Dr. Pietsch is certain: “The forest will grow again here.” He’ll just look different than before.
Because new tree species that can endure more drought will prevail and form a new forest. Instead of spruces, for example, beeches will occupy a large space. However, that will take a few hundred years, because the climate crisis means: “Of course, the trees will no longer grow as quickly and will not be as vital either.”
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