On 10 April 2025, our students from India and Nepal, in collaboration with the NABU Wolfenbüttel, visited the amphibian protection area in Asseweg, Wittmar (Samtgemeinde Elm-Asse). NABU (The Nature and Biodiversity Conservation Union), Germany’s oldest and most member-rich environmental association, welcomed the students with an engaging overview of its work in biodiversity and habitat conservation. Dr. Martin Erbs, Katja Erbs, and Jörg Platzer represented NABU during the visit and led the insightful excursion. The students were accompanied by Dr. Ruth Areli García-León, Project Coordinator of the DAAD-SDG Partnerships Project  “Implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals – India, Nepal and Germany.”

Students learned about NABU’s mission—from protecting endangered species to promoting sustainable infrastructure and policy-making—highlighting citizen-led environmental stewardship. A highlight of the visit was observing a meticulously maintained pond ecosystem and the newly installed stationary amphibious guidance system, which ensures the safe passage of land animals like toads, frogs, and newts throughout the year. This system, located near the former salt mine ponds, guides amphibians and other small creatures to several underground tunnels, sparing them from hazardous road crossings.

This initiative stands as an exemplary model of nature and species protection, showcasing how voluntary efforts can bear meaningful fruit. The voluntary amphibian rescue operation, which sees locals gathering annually to assist over 9,000 amphibians during their spawning migration, has now been bolstered by this sustainable infrastructure. The system not only protects the local fauna but also facilitates the efforts of the volunteers, who have been faithfully helping the creatures across the street for years.

The excursion served as a powerful reminder that while technological and economic advancement is essential, the preservation of our environment is equally critical. Students learned how human activities adversely affect wildlife and accelerate climate change. The statistical data and visual evidence shared during the visit painted a stark picture of the impact on biodiversity and ecosystem health.

What resonated most with the students was the NABU team's unwavering and selfless commitment to the planet—driven purely by passion rather than profit. Their dedication was both inspiring and eye-opening, instilling in the students a profound sense of responsibility and urgency to act for the environment in their own capacities.

This excursion extended far beyond theoretical learning, providing students with practical, hands-on insights into real-world challenges and solutions in sustainable development. It emphasised key United Nations Sustainable Development Goals—Climate Action (SDG 13) and Life on Land (SDG 15). More than just a visit, it was a transformative experience—igniting a lasting commitment in students to champion sustainability not merely as a practice, but as a purpose, shaping a future where people and the planet thrive together.