The first climate-resistant cycle path, Kühle Spur, opens in Lusatia!

The first climate-resistant cycle path, Kühle Spur, opens in Lusatia!

A windy day in Lusatia, and the best part? Germany’s first climate-resistant cycle path “Kühle Spur” has opened its doors! The route stretches over an impressive 30 kilometers between Großräschen and Altdöbern in the Oberspreewald-Lausitz and was created by scientists from the Leibniz Center for Agricultural Landscape Research (ZALF) and the Brandenburg Technical University Cottbus-Senftenberg (BTU). RBB24 reports that The aim of this ambitious project is to make cycling more pleasant on hot summer days.

But what makes this cycle path so special? Here you will find drinking fountains, shade providers and even swimming areas along the route. Researchers use modern technology, such as drone footage and thermal imaging cameras, to determine the cooling effect of trees and hedges. The results of these analyzes helped to optimally determine the route. Cyclist engagement has been integrated into the planning to ensure aspects such as route length, attractions and rest areas are taken into account.

A role model for the future

The “Kühle Spur” not only serves as a recreational area, but also has the potential to serve as an example for the design of heat-resistant cycle paths throughout Germany. Findings about the cooling effect of plants and their age will also be used in other regions in the future to make cycling easier on hot days there too. MDR highlights that The researchers' identification of temperature hot spots and cold spots played a central role in the development of the cycle path.

Cyclists are aware of the advantages of the adaptation measures: the planting of trees and hedges along the cycle paths was viewed positively and contributes to a cooler atmosphere on the routes. The “Kühle Spur” is not just a leisure activity, it is an easy bike ride that is suitable for all fitness levels and can be completed in under three hours.

The rise of cycling

But what is the overall status of cycling in Germany? According to a study by the Fraunhofer Institute, the proportion of bicycle traffic could triple by 2035, which could significantly improve both the climate and quality of life. Cities that have historically left little room for cyclists are facing challenges but also opportunities. Improvements in cycling infrastructure are essential to create safer conditions, such as the dangerous narrow cycle paths and illegal parking that remain a major problem.

In some regions, plans are already being made to create around 860 kilometers of new cycle paths by 2030. A need made clear as the transport sector was responsible for 148 million tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions in 2023. Better cycling infrastructure could not only significantly increase the share of cycling traffic, but also save up to 19 million tonnes of greenhouse gases.

The “Kühle Spur” not only has a good hand when it comes to offering cyclists a relaxing route, but can also serve as a model for Germany-wide adjustments. Given rising temperatures and the rapidly advancing climate crisis, now is the right time to prioritize climate adaptation measures and promote cycling. With a combination of good planning and citizen engagement, cycling could soon be made not only relaxing, but also safer and more enjoyable.