Johannes Hericks: From the Oberberg region back to Münsterland

In action for the climate land Münsterland

When his contract in Nümbrecht expired, his home municipality was looking for a climate protection manager. He seized the opportunity and returned to Münsterland in spring 2021. Since then, he has been working to make Heek climate-friendly, for example by renovating the municipality's own buildings to make them more energy-efficient. And he wants to get the citizens excited about climate protection; to this end, he organises information and discussion events and designs flyers. As a native of Nienborg, Johannes Hericks has a big starting advantage when it comes to public relations: he knows his way around and people know him. "It's easier when you're already networked," he says a few weeks after his return. "I'm received differently than before in Nümbrecht, people are more open and even talk to me about my job when I'm shopping because they know me through a corner."

He is also already networked with many actors in his community and in the region, and he is gradually establishing contact with others. For example, with the climate protection managers in other municipalities, for example through the campaign "Münsterland is Climate Land": the climate experts exchange information material and tips for everyday work.

A favourite place: the old water mill in Nienborg.

Johannes Hericks enjoys being back home not only at work, but also in his free time. What did he miss during his time in Nümbrecht? His friends, whom he can now see every week again. And the many familiar corners in the community and the surrounding area. "I walk or cycle a bit and am quickly in the nature I know," he says. "When I'm out and about, I always remember experiences from the past. In Oberbergisches, I did discover a lot of new things and enjoyed trips to Cologne. But you just don't have that familiar feeling in a new place at first."

His favourite places include the old water mill in Nienborg, the walks along the banks of the Dinkel and the Aasee in Münster, where he often met up with friends during his student days. "And my garden, I like to sit here to switch off and just look at the greenery," he says. "Living in a bigger city wouldn't be right for me. I like to go there sometimes, but then I'm also glad to get out of the hustle and bustle again."

Many people have come back to Münsterland and are more than happy with their decision. Read through more portraits of people who have chosen this region as their new home and tell us what appeals to them about Münsterland.