The city of Leipzig belongs to a small number of central European metropolitan areas that are located in ecologically diverse forest and waterway regions. Though characterised by its dense population and heavy traffic, the city still has an abundance of beautiful parks, green spaces and recreational sites.
Situated at the intersection of three rivers, the Weiße Elster, Pleiße and Parthe, Leipzig has always been vulnerable to the danger of flooding. To combat this danger, the river beds have been expanded and mechanical flood control and diversion systems have been installed.
The Environmental Information Centre (UiZ) was founded in the year 1993 as an extension of the Office of Environmental Protection. It has established itself as a centre for ecological consulting, information and communication for Leipzig’s residents, visitors and educational institutions.