3. Biodiversity and nature

The biodiversity plan identifies existing and potential natural values and biodiversity. These are linked to development opportunities
. This enables us to respond quickly to spatial developments and seize opportunities to strengthen biodiversity. The Biodiversity Sounding Board Group makes an important contribution to biodiversity policy and implementation.

We also have a role to play in management in promoting biodiversity in various ways. This includes reducing mowing and removing grass clippings, sowing flower mixtures, using host plants and trees in public spaces, and creating nature-friendly banks.

Trees are an important weapon against climate change because they convert CO2 into oxygen. They provide shade and evaporation, thereby cooling the air on hot days. In times of heavy rainfall, trees increase water storage capacity.

In addition, trees are also good for humans and animals because they contribute to mental and physical health and increase biodiversity. By 2024, 108 trees will have been planted on municipal land. In this way, the municipality of West Maas en Waal is doing its bit in the fight against global warming.

The municipality's outdoor services department is responsible for green space management. This includes mowing the verges. There are various ways of doing this, and the method used has an impact on biodiversity.

• Flail mower: When mowing with a flail mower, the clippings are not cleared away but remain on the verge. This can have adverse effects on biodiversity. The organic material that remains enriches the soil with nutrients, which is particularly beneficial for fast-growing plants such as nettles and thistles. This gives other, often more vulnerable, plants less opportunity to grow.
• Mowing and vacuuming combination: Unlike flailing, mowing and removal ensures that the verge is impoverished. Poor soils are actually more attractive to a greater variety of plants and animals. This is therefore better for biodiversity.
• Disc mower or cutter bar: For biodiversity, mowing with a disc mower or cutter bar and removing the clippings a few days later is best, but for energy consumption and CO2 emissions, a mower-vacuum combination is better. This can be done in one go.

To promote biodiversity, we have been using a mowing-vacuum combination in several locations since 2024. Previously, we used flails to cut the verges in those locations, but that is less beneficial for biodiversity. With the new method, we are enhancing biodiversity while also being mindful of energy consumption and CO2 emissions.