Earth Day is on April 22, and we’re joining in the worldwide day of action for sustainability. In cooperation with Mastercard, our event in the series “Berlin with Berliners” takes us into the city’s nature. Bestselling author Sophia Kimmig accompanies us on this walking tour through the Tiergarten as we get to know Berlin’s most famous park from completely new perspectives. The fun will continue with readings her new book and lunch in a nearby restaurant. Here’s everything you need to know about the event on April 22 and how you can participate.
Sophia Kimmig: Wildlife expert
Urban nature can be quite exciting, and no one knows that better than Sophia Kimmig, a wildlife biologist dedicated to studying animals in their changing habitats. She’s become known for her keen observations of animals that are often overlooked, yet form an integral part of urban landscapes. Von Füchsen und Menschen (Of Foxes and People) made it onto the Spiegel bestseller list in 2021 and is a testament to the scientist’s sharp eye, demonstrating her ability to spot potential hideaways for families of foxes where others see mere railroad embankments and hills.
In her new book Lebendige Nacht (Living Night), she takes a look at the animals that really get going after sunset. She talks knowledgeably about foxes, of course, but also fireflies that light up the darkness, wild boars in search of food, and raccoons making their way through thickets.
Bestselling author reveals secrets of the urban landscape at this unique event
Usually, we hardly notice anything of the wild bustle in our green spaces. But it’s a completely different story when Sophia Kimmig leads us through what is probably Berlin’s most famous park. The walk begins at 11 a.m. at Bellevue S-Bahn station, and we follow the author for about an hour and a half through the Tiergarten – and look forward to hearing everything she has to say about the animals in the city. Because where we might see a good spot to lay out a picnic blanket, the wildlife biologist sees entire habitats. The fauna that remains hidden from us, she knows like the back of her hand – and gives us insights during this nature experience.
The event is part of the Earth Day program: the worldwide day of action sends a strong signal for environmental and climate protection. This year’s motto is “Live greener,” and the focus is on the many ways we can coexist in harmony with nature.
After the walk: books and bites
The walk ends around 12:45 p.m. – just in time for lunch. Our “Berlin mit Berlinern” event in cooperation with Mastercard will wind down in a nearby pub: It’s off to the Schleusenkrug, probably the best-known beer garden in the Tiergarten. And of course, the food on offer will be completely in line with the sustainable concept of Earth Day: Everything on the menu at this unique event is seasonal, regional, vegetarian or vegan.
While we eat, Sophia Kimmig will read from her exciting new book Living Night and provide signed copies to all in attendance. For kids interested in urban wildlife, the biologist has also written for a younger audience: Wild Animals in the City is a hands-on book for little ones that includes puzzles as informative as they are fun.
Earth-Day-Event, presented by Mastercard. Tour through the Tiergarten Meeting point: S-Bahnhof Bellevue, 11.00, details.
This article was adapted from the German by Seraina Birdsey.