Since 1991, more than 9200 projects have received financial backing totalling roundabout € 1,6 billion. The promotional activities concentrate on environmental technology and research, nature conservation, environmental communication and cultural assets.

The Board of Advisors ...

... is the executive committee of the foundation, voting on the most important decisions. It consists of 16 members appointed by the Federal Government.

Law ...

The DBU was established in 1990, subject to a law passed by the German Parliament on initiative of the then Finance Minister Dr. Theo Waigel: to use the amount of € 1.3 billion from privatising the former steel group Salzgitter AG for an environmental foundation. The income from its assets is used for the promotional activities.