A glittering evening for climate protection – Steinfurt district receives the Golden Planet Award 2025

Frankfurt. When conviction, drive, and community spirit come together, the result is charisma – and that is exactly what the district of Steinfurt embodies. At the festive presentation of the Golden Planet Award 2025 at Radio Frankfurt’s Skyline Studios, the Westphalian region was honored for its decades of commitment to climate protection and its exemplary sustainability strategy.

Amidst sparkling lights, subtle music, and guests from all over the world, there was a special atmosphere in the air: the award ceremony celebrated not only projects, but also people – people who are shaping the future.

A district with attitude and heart

The district of Steinfurt has been considered a pioneer in sustainability for more than 25 years. It joined the Agenda 21 movement back in the late 1990s – a visionary step that set the course for sustainable development. Today, Steinfurt successfully combines economic strength with ecological responsibility and social cohesion.

In his acceptance speech, District Administrator Dr. Martin Sommer spoke with palpable pride: “This award does not belong to individuals – it belongs to everyone. To the citizens, the businesses, the schools, the farmers. They are all carrying this idea of sustainability into the future. We have proven that when we act together, a region can achieve more than one might think.”

Under his political leadership and with a clear vision for climate neutrality by 2040, the district has become a model for successful climate policy at the regional level.

Silke Wesselmann: Voice of the companies and architect of change

Silke Wesselmann, Head of the Office for Climate Protection and Sustainability and Managing Director of energieland2050 e.V., also received special recognition. She is considered the driving force behind many projects and a bridge builder between administration, politics, and business.

“Sustainability is not a goal to be achieved, but a path to be walked together,” said Wesselmann in her emotional speech. “Our companies are united behind this idea – they invest, develop, and think ahead. Climate protection is not a cost factor, but an opportunity for regional strength and innovation.”

With energieland2050 e.V., a network of around 120 companies, municipal utilities, banks, craft businesses, and community wind farms, Wesselmann has created a platform that extends far beyond the district. It is a place where ideas, alliances, and concrete projects are developed that show how business can take responsibility – and how a region can shape the future together.

An evening full of emotion and applause

When the name “ Steinfurt District” was announced, applause broke out. Guests from Germany, Europe, and overseas celebrated the award winners. District Administrator Sommer accepted the golden sculpture with visible emotion, while Silke Wesselmann stood beside him – a symbol of the team spirit that characterizes this region.

Melanie Hauptmanns, also a member of the jury for the Golden Planet Award 2025, gave the laudatory speech for the district of Steinfurt.

“This is an award for courage, perseverance, and solidarity,” said Wesselmann. “It shows that climate protection does not begin in distant capitals, but in our communities, in our businesses, and in our hearts.”

The winners thanked the initiators of the award, Lady Dr. h.c. Astrid Arens (Voice Aid Association) and Stephan Schwenk (Radio Frankfurt), for this successful event.

A beacon for Europe

The Golden Planet Award honors people and regions that take on global responsibility through foresight and drive. The district of Steinfurt is the first rural region to receive this award, distinguished by its pragmatism and warmth – and proving that change can succeed where there is a strong sense of community.

As the gala drew to a close late in the evening, there was something palpable in the air: hope. The district of Steinfurt has shown that sustainable action is not only a duty, but can also be a source of joy – a shared promise for the future.

A district that embraces change. A district that inspires. A district that shows that big ideas start small.

Photos: Kaydienne Mitchell, London