New Documentary Honors Germany's Trailblazing Conservationist Michael Succow

Can a single person protect nature—and restore its beauty before our eyes? Can one individual change the world we live in?

These are the very questions explored in the compelling documentary How Does Nature Work?! Can We Change the World?, which will be screened on Tuesday, May 19, at 8:00 PM at the Thuringian administrative office of the UNESCO Rhön Biosphere Reserve.

This free event marks the beginning of a series of planned screenings across the Bavarian and Hessian regions of the Rhön.

Following the 60-minute film, a panel discussion will take place with prominent regional guests. The documentary profiles Professor Dr. Michael Succow, a Brandenburg-based biologist and Right Livelihood Award laureate (often called the "alternative Nobel Prize"), who stands as one of Germany's most influential conservationists.

Even as a child, Succow distinguished himself as an extraordinary ornithologist. During the turbulent period of German reunification, he—an uncompromising advocate for nature and a renowned peatland expert—stepped into the defining role of his life. Through a remarkable political effort, he and his allies developed Germany's largest-ever conservation program.

The year 1990 marked a golden moment for nature protection: five national parks, six UNESCO biosphere reserves, and three nature parks were established across roughly 4.5 percent of what was then East Germany's territory.

Over the following decades, this foundation led to the creation of numerous additional protected areas. Iconic landscapes like Saxon Switzerland, Southeast Rügen, the Spreewald, and the Rhön exemplify this pan-German conservation revolution.

How Does Nature Work?! follows some of the individuals inspired by Michael Succow, introducing visionaries who today champion healthy soils, new old-growth forests, and the preservation of ancient peatlands.

One thing becomes clear: successful conservation is the result of many dedicated people—and the most powerful stories emerge where responsibility is embraced.

After the screening, the film's central questions will be taken up in a panel discussion held in the historic Baroque hall of Zella/Rhön's provostry. The participants include: - Karl-Friedrich Abe, former head of the Thuringian administrative office of the UNESCO Rhön Biosphere Reserve (1990–2019) - Philipp Metzler, academic director of the Point Alpha Foundation - Julia Gombert, head of the Rhön Natura 2000 station and managing director of the Thuringian Rhön Landscape Conservation Association - Erik Thürmer, mayor of Kaltennordheim and certified nature and landscape guide

Together, they will explore the roles that individuals, regions, and protected areas have played—both past and present—in safeguarding our natural foundations, as well as how long-term commitment can take shape.

At a time of complex global challenges, the film delivers a deliberate message against resignation. How Does Nature Work?! encourages viewers to stand up for their ideals and take responsibility for nature.

Additional screenings are planned in the Hessian and Bavarian Rhön, ensuring that the film's themes will be discussed across state borders throughout the entire region.

The event is part of the #rhöngeführt stamp booklet and limited to 80 seats. For more information about the film, visit wiegehtnatur.de.