immo!nvest – Die Plattform für Standorte und Immobilien

Tag: Pflanzen

  • Hot months, hot heads: disputes between neighbours

    Hot months, hot heads: disputes between neighbours

    Between March and June, there are particularly many crackling noises in the neighbourhood. According to Alexandra Pestalozzi, legal expert at AXA-ARAG, complaints about neighbours increase in the warmer months when there are a lot of people outside. Construction projects, noisy animals and unkempt gardens are the most frequent triggers for conflicts.

    In 2023, AXA-ARAG received 0.7 percent fewer reports of neighbour disputes than in the previous year. A decrease of around four per cent was also recorded in the first six months of 2024. Despite this decrease, disputes over construction projects remain a central point of conflict, accounting for around one fifth of all reported cases.

    Consideration and communication are key
    The summer months bring many challenges: noise emissions from construction projects or noisy animals such as dogs and cockerels often lead to disputes. In such cases, Alexandra Pestalozzi recommends first seeking a discussion with the neighbour and, if necessary, involving the administration or a legal advisor.

    Watering plants can also lead to trouble. Excessive watering can lead to damage to the neighbour’s balcony or building. In such cases, the duty of care and consideration applies, both under tenancy law and under neighbouring law. Respectful behaviour and clear agreements can avoid many conflicts.

    Barbecuing on the balcony and in the garden
    Barbecuing on the balcony or in the garden is generally permitted, but can also lead to disagreements. Alexandra Pestalozzi points out that certain types of barbecues may be prescribed in rented flats and that the house rules and tenancy agreement should be checked in advance. A general ban on barbecuing by neighbours is not possible, but here too a discussion should be sought in the event of conflicts.

    Procedure in the event of a conflict
    In the case of planned construction or planting projects, it is advisable to talk to the neighbours in advance in order to avoid potential conflicts. Should disputes nevertheless arise, Pestalozzi advises discussing them over a coffee and looking for solutions together. If this is not enough, a neutral third party, the administration or mediation can be called in. In some cases, it may also be necessary to involve a legal adviser.

    In conclusion, Alexandra Pestalozzi emphasises the importance of communication and consideration in order to ensure harmonious coexistence in the neighbourhood. Respectful interaction and adherence to common rules make a significant contribution to minimising conflicts and promoting a peaceful neighbourhood.

  • Successful 32nd trade fair for the ÖGA 2024

    Successful 32nd trade fair for the ÖGA 2024

    From June 26 to 28, 2024, numerous experts visited the ÖGA to discover the latest developments in horticulture and landscaping, public green spaces and vegetable and berry cultivation. The trade fair management drew a positive conclusion: the 409 exhibitors praised the high quality of the trade visitors, the visitor frequency and the excellent organization of the event. The live machine demos and the opportunity to test equipment on site were particularly appreciated. The unique park atmosphere also contributed to the success of the trade fair.

    Voices of the exhibitors
    Rolf Schüpbach from Ricoter Erdaufbereitung AG emphasized: “ÖGA is the meeting place for the green industry. We appreciate the open and honest exchange and the opportunity to present our innovations. For us, it is also an opportunity to thank our customers.” Jürg Schwab from Robert Aebi Landtechnik AG added: “The fact that we can present our machines outside is what makes the ÖGA so special for us. It also gives us the opportunity to maintain good customer contacts with decision-makers and meet new customers. For us, the ÖGA is the best of all trade fairs.”

    Innovative strength and awards
    The industry’s innovative strength was clearly visible at ÖGA 2024. An expert jury selected nine winners of the “Technical Innovations” innovation award from 37 technical innovations submitted – more than ever before. In addition, four new plants were honored with the “New Plants” award. The awards were presented by Christian Stucki, wrestling king and Sportsman of the Year 2019, as part of the official innovation ceremony. Over 180 invited guests from business, politics and exhibitors took the opportunity to exchange ideas and network.

    Constant visitor numbers
    The exhibition management was also satisfied with the visitor numbers. A total of 20,350 entries were registered, which is comparable to the last edition in 2022 (20,600 entries). Despite a rainy spring, which delayed many horticulturalists and producers, numerous professionals decided to visit the ÖGA. The behavior of the visitors was particularly pleasing: they were interested and ready to buy. The new location of the construction machinery sector no. 10 was also rated positively by the majority. The more compact exhibition grounds led to a change in the flow of visitors without having to change sides of the road.

    Future of ÖGA
    The next ÖGA will take place from June 24 to 26, 2026. As the most important trade fair for professional horticulture, public green spaces, the municipal sector and vegetable and berry cultivation, it is aimed at experts and decision-makers in the industry. The trade fair is organized by the Swiss Gardeners’ Association, the Oeschberg Cantonal Horticultural School and the Swiss Central office for vegetable growing

    The successful staging of ÖGA 2024 underlines the importance of this trade fair for the green sector and raises hopes for an equally successful event in 2026.

  • Green cities as trailblazers for global climate impact

    Green cities as trailblazers for global climate impact

    The MCC study, published in the journal Nature Cities, highlights four key methods of CO2 removal in urban environments that could sequester one gigatonne of CO2 annually by the middle of the century. The methods analysed include adding biochar to cement, increasing the use of wood in construction, enriching urban soils with biochar and installing CO2 filters in commercial buildings. Together, these approaches could make a significant contribution to achieving net-zero urban emissions.

    Urban strategies for the climate and more
    Quirina Rodriguez Mendez, PhD student at the MCC and lead author of the study, emphasises that these techniques are of great benefit not only in terms of climate protection, but also for environmental quality and well-being in cities. For example, the use of special colour pigments and surface materials to improve the reflectivity of urban surfaces could significantly lower the temperature in cities and reduce the energy required for air conditioning systems.

    Local actions with a global impact
    The study emphasises the role of cities as “test laboratories” for climate protection, where local measures can be implemented quickly and potentially scaled up globally. Felix Creutzig, head of the MCC working group and co-author of the study, emphasises that local climate solutions, although often underestimated, can have an impressive impact and improve quality of life. The research findings offer important insights and recommendations for policymakers shaping urban infrastructure and policies.