German Federal Environmental Foundation

Why did the German Federal Environmental Foundation choose Osnabrück? The German Federal Environmental Foundation (DBU) is a giant in the world of environmental protection. Its headquarters, nestled here in Osnabrück, might seem an unusual choice. But the story of how the DBU landed in this historic city is as fascinating as the projects it supports. The DBU’s story began in 1990, born from the proceeds of the sale of Salzgitter AG. This infusion of 1,288,007,400 euros formed the foundation’s initial capital. The German government, spearheaded by Finance Minister Dr. Theo Waigel, envisioned a powerful force for environmental change. The DBU’s mission was clear: to fund innovative and impactful environmental projects, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises. Osnabrück was chosen as the DBU’s home in 1990. Its statutes officially designated the city as the location for its office. The DBU officially opened its doors in Osnabrück on December 17, 1990, marking the beginning of its impressive journey. Since then, the DBU has supported over 11,100 projects, investing a staggering 2.08 billion euros in environmental solutions. Its capital has grown to an impressive 2.9 billion euros. The DBU’s headquarters began in a historic villa with a park, a peaceful setting for such important work. However, the foundation’s rapid growth soon outpaced the villa’s capacity. Three new buildings were added to accommodate the expanding mission of the DBU. Led by Secretary General Alexander Bonde since 2018, the DBU in Osnabrück tackles critical environmental challenges like climate change, biodiversity loss, resource depletion, and harmful emissions. Their work aligns with both scientific findings on planetary boundaries and the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. So, the next time you see the DBU’s modern buildings juxtaposed against Osnabrück’s historic backdrop, remember the remarkable story of how this powerhouse of environmental innovation found its home in this charming city.