TAFNE
TAFNE
TAFNE

focus topics

TAFNE connects local and regional cross-sector leaders from Germany and the United States to facilitate exchange and learning on the following topics

TAFNE

Resilient
Infrastructure

Nature-based solutions (NbS) play a growing role in strengthening resilience to flooding and drought. Initiatives that restore shorelines and wetlands and integrate green infrastructure into urban areas offer sustainable, cost-effective ways to manage water-related risks.

TAFNE highlights examples from Germany and the United States that demonstrate ways in which NbS can protect communities from flooding and drought, create jobs, and stimulate local economic development. The forum also connects participants on smart water-management practices, with a focus on monitoring, regulating, and reducing chemical pollutants to safeguard water quality and public health.

TAFNE

Nature Conservation and Restoration

Preserving and restoring natural ecosystems is essential for sustaining wildlife and biodiversity, supporting agriculture, enhancing tourism, and improving the well-being of local communities. Effective conservation initiatives are tailored to local contexts, engage communities meaningfully, and often require collaboration across regional and state boundaries to ensure ecological connectivity.

TAFNE promotes peer-learning on conservation and restoration practices that integrate proven methodologies with local traditions and inspire a shared responsibility for the stewardship of nature.

TAFNE

Resource
Efficiency

Resource efficiency is a cornerstone of sustainable economic growth, driving innovation, competitiveness, and environmental stewardship. Germany has long-standing experience with circular economy approaches, particularly in materials reuse. Many US states and cities are advancing ambitious resource efficiency and circular strategies, often through public-private partnerships.

TAFNE fosters exchanges on enhancing resource efficiency across the product lifecycle. Focus areas include sectors such as construction and packaging, in which waste reduction, material innovation, and circular design offer significant environmental and economic benefits.

TAFNE

Community-Based Environmental Governance

Effective environmental governance is critical to building a resilient economy. Germany and the United States offer valuable perspectives and insights on policy development and implementation at the state and local levels.

TAFNE provides a platform for exploring environmental policies and programs in both countries, identifying synergies and differences, and fostering opportunities for mutual learning. The forum emphasizes strategies to engage local and regional communities in decision-making processes and to empower stakeholders to take an active role in managing environmental resources.