The Climate Box Returns to Downtown
Following its successful debut last summer at Kochbrunnenplatz, the interactive exhibition space will be set up at Luisenplatz this year. There, during the summer months, the “Klima-Kiste” will provide a place for cooling off, relaxing, and learning about climate issues right in the heart of downtown.
Luisenplatz is one of the areas in downtown Wiesbaden that is particularly prone to heat stress. Paved surfaces, limited shade, and a lack of greenery lead to high temperatures on hot days. The “Klima-Kiste” serves as an example here of how climate adaptation can work in an urban setting.
Over the past two years, the PlayFountain water playground on Luisenplatz has already provided cooling relief and a pleasant environment on hot days. The “Klima-Kiste” builds on this, demonstrating how greenery, shade, and water can improve the urban climate.
The 35-square-meter temporary installation offers noticeable cooling with diverse, climate-friendly plantings, seating, a sunshade, and a misting system.
The outdoor installation is complemented by four information panels that explain key aspects of climate adaptation.
The “Klima-Kiste” is expected to be on display at Luisenplatz through the end of August and is open daily from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Mayor and Head of the Environment Department Christiane HinningerWith the "Climate Box," we are once again creating a space in one of the hottest spots in the city center where climate adaptation can be directly experienced.
Sustainability and Reuse
The Klima-Kiste is committed to sustainability and reuse. The entire installation, as well as last year’s plants, were stored over the winter months and are being reused. The plants have continued to grow during this time and give the Klima-Kiste an even greener and livelier appearance this year.
The installation features native perennials, shrubs, flowers, and trees that are particularly heat-tolerant and accommodate varying water requirements. They create a pleasant microclimate, add splashes of color, and provide food for insects. In addition, peat-free soil is used to help protect the wetlands. For easier identification, all plants this year are labeled with corresponding plant tags; a plant list is also available at wiesbaden.de/Klima-Kiste.
2026 Climate Box Survey
An accompanying survey invites visitors once again this year to share their impressions and suggestions.
Take part in the survey on “Urban Cooling and Climate Adaptation”!
We want to hear your thoughts on climate-resilient city centers! Take part in the survey and share your personal experiences with heat in downtown Wiesbaden, as well as your ideas for measures to create more livable and resilient city centers in the face of climate change.
Positive response
Last summer, the “Klima-Kiste” drew a huge response: During its run at Kochbrunnenplatz, it attracted around 40,000 visitors. Many residents used the installation not only as a source of information but also as a place to linger and catch their breath during the summer heat. Children explored the interactive space with enthusiasm, and international visitors were also inspired by the innovative project.
Mayor and Head of the Environment Department Christiane HinningerLast summer’s experiences have shown just how important such places are in an increasingly sweltering downtown area. The Climate Box combines information and a pleasant environment in a unique way, allowing people to experience climate adaptation firsthand.
Partner of the Climate Box
The Climate Box was originally developed in Hameln in 2023. In Wiesbaden, the project is being implemented jointly by City Management and the Environmental Office.
The planting for the Climate Box was designed by the Wiesbaden Cemetery Gardeners’ Association and carried out free of charge. The association is also responsible for the care and maintenance of the plant diversity. It is supported in this effort by the Trust Agency for Permanent Grave Maintenance in Hesse-Thuringia and the Horticultural Association of Baden-Württemberg-Hesse.