German students lead initiatives for improved cycling infrastructure

Students at various German schools are leading initiatives to improve local cycling infrastructure and promote climate-friendly mobility.

At the Willy-Brandt-Gesamtschule in Bottrop, a bicycle working group has been recognized for its 'Action Safe Bicycle Paths' project. The group is working with the road construction office and the ADFC to identify and eliminate hazards along typical school routes. Students have mapped dangerous areas using OpenStreetMap and will present improvement proposals—such as new signage or lane markings—to the city administration.

In Waldbröl, students from class 7b at the Städtische Realschule successfully applied for funding through the LEADER-Region Oberberg youth budget. Using a creative video to demonstrate the need for better facilities, the students secured 90 percent funding for new bicycle stands and locking posts. The project aims to support increased cycling among students while contributing to traffic calming and climate protection.