This year, about 1,800 elementary school students in Mainz took part in the “Kindermeilen” campaign weeks, sending a strong message in support of climate protection and eco-friendly mobility. For every car-free trip to school, the children could earn a so-called “Green Mile.” Whether on foot, by bike, scooter, or public transportation, the focus was on how to travel to school safely and with as little car use as possible.

To conclude the campaign, Janina Steinkrüger, Head of the Department of Environment and Mobility, and Ata Delbasteh, Head of the Department of Education, presented certificates to participating classes on October 1, 2026, at the Mainz-Laubenheim Elementary School. They recognized the efforts of the children, who, together with their teachers, had spent a week exploring climate-friendly mobility, safe routes to school, and how they themselves could contribute to greater climate protection.

“The ‘Kindermeilen’ campaign has been a tradition in Mainz for more than two decades. I’m delighted that so many classes participated again this year. The many ‘Kindermeilen’ collected together send a very positive message,” emphasized Janina Steinkrüger, Commissioner for Environment and Mobility. “And when children aren’t driven to school in their parents’ cars, it increases safety for all road users, especially in the immediate vicinity of schools.”

Ata Delbasteh, Head of the Department of Education, adds: “At the same time, the goal is to help children make their way to school safely and independently and to reduce car traffic around schools. When children travel together on foot, by bike, or by scooter, they get some exercise and interact with other children. Outdoor activity also helps them concentrate in class and promotes good health.”

But it didn’t stop at collecting “Green Miles”: The children also explored their own ideas about climate protection and mobility. On posters and cardboard feet they designed themselves, they wrote down their wishes and demands regarding climate policy. The results will be forwarded through the Climate Alliance and are set to be showcased at the international climate conference COP 31 in Antalya this December.

The “Children’s Miles” campaign weeks take place across Europe and are organized by the Climate Alliance.

The state capital of Mainz would like to thank all participating schools, children, parents, and teachers for their commitment and the many car-free commutes to school.