Sabine Wendt (left to right), Managing Director of visitBerlin, Rikke Holm Petersen of Wonderful Copenhagen, and Franziska Giffey (SPD), Berlin’s Senator for Economics, Energy and Public Enterprises, are pictured on the solar-powered ship “Hermine” during a press conference organised by the Senate Department for Economics, Energy and Public Enterprises and visitBerlin.
© dpa
As part of a pilot project, tourists and Berliners who volunteer to take part in an initiative to protect Berlin’s waterways will be rewarded for their efforts.
A pilot project called Berlin Pay is running in Berlin between 14 May and 14 June, with 40 companies taking part.
Plötzensee Lido, for example, offers a free ticket for a future visit to people who water the plants on site or assist those with reduced mobility at the lake. At the Hotel Oderberger in Prenzlauer Berg, volunteers are invited to enjoy free night-time swimming in the hotel’s own pool, provided they first take part in a guided tour on water safety. Those interested must register for the activities in advance. An overview of all projects is available on the website of the tourism organisation Visit Berlin, which is coordinating the project. Financial support is provided by the Economic Affairs Department.
The aim of the project is to reward responsible behaviour by encouraging people to get more involved, keep the city clean and show greater commitment to their city, said Senator for Economic Affairs Franziska Giffey at the project’s launch. "Both Berliners and visitors to the city," emphasised the SPD politician. At the same time, it is clear that a one-month participation by citizens and tourists cannot be expected to magically transform Berlin into a clean city, said Giffey. "We do not want to replace the BSR."
If the project is well received, the organisers plan to keep it running throughout the summer and, ideally, make it a permanent fixture. Alongside Berlin Pay, an online map of Berlin is being launched, providing an overview of lovely spots by the water. These include swimming spots, restaurants and boat hire services.