With the start of the 2026/27 school year, the Audi Environmental Foundation and the Felix Neureuther Foundation have introduced a nationally established environmental education initiative to Ingolstadt and the region. Through “Nature Heroes Ingolstadt: Children Take Action Against Litter in Nature,” up to 15 schools in the greater Ingolstadt area can take part in the nationwide Nature Heroes program at no cost.

The project was created by the Felix Neureuther Foundation and launched in September 2024 as part of the “Healthy Earth. Healthy Children.” initiative founded by Christian and Felix Neureuther. The concept combines age-appropriate environmental education with hands-on activities. Its goal is to raise children's awareness of environmental challenges from an early age and help them understand the connection between a healthy environment and their own well-being. The educational content is aligned with UNESCO’s Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) framework. Since the program was introduced, approximately 500 schools across Germany have participated, according to the project organizers.

The program aims to provide students with practical ways to take action and empower them to assume responsibility for their environment. It is designed for third- and fourth-grade students at elementary and special education schools, as well as fifth- and sixth-grade students at lower secondary schools.

One of the program’s key strengths is its accessibility. Participation is free of charge for schools, and teachers do not require any specialized prior knowledge. The educational materials are organized in modular units and can be used during regular lessons, project weeks, or environmental clubs.

At the conclusion of the program, participating schools receive teaching materials and program resources for continued use. This enables environmental and climate-related topics to remain part of classroom activities long after the project has ended. The objective is to ensure that nature conservation and environmental protection are not viewed as short-term initiatives but remain present beyond school hours. The materials also include ideas and activities that can be integrated into everyday family life.

The Nature Heroes Ingolstadt project launched in September 2026 with the participation of seven schools.