ns

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t ulosO

Sustainable solutions
for a future worth living

Tina Eichner
1
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of course oekom!
With this book you hold a real piece of sustainability in your hands.
With your purchase you support a production with high
ecological requirements:

• Mineral oil free inks

• No plastic wrap
• Compensation of all CO2 emissions
• short transport routes – printed in Germany

Further information at www.natural-oekom.de

and #naturaloekom
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Bibliographic information from the German National Library:

The German National Library lists this publication

in the Deutsche Nationalbibliografie; detailed bibliographic data can

be accessed on the Internet at www.dnb.de.

© 2021 oekom publishing house, Munich

Society for ecological communication mbH

Waltherstrasse 29, 80337 Munich

Layout and typesetting: Judith Weber

Correction: Christiane Geldmacher
Co-translation: Ursula Lindenberg
Cover illustration: © Tina Eichner
Print: Eberl & Koesel GmbH & Co. KG, Altusried-Krugzell

All rights reserved

ISBN 978-3-96238-313-8
E-ISBN 978-3-96238-857-7
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Sustainable solutions
for a future worth living

O sn
absolutely i 3
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6 foreword

10 biodiversity
mountain forest project

26 Agriculture
Finca Luz Serena
Campus Klein Altendorf—Miscanthus x giganteus

48 protest
Fridays for Future
Extinction Rebellion
Hambach Forest & Lignite

90 energy
wind power
Solar system Davos
balcony solar system

116 mobility
Bike City Copenhagen

126 Education
Floating University
Eberswalde University for Sustainable Development

144 consumption

Original unpacked
bamboo straws

156 circular economy

World Trash Center
collect garbage

174 Sustainable building

Ecovillage Sieben Linden
Earthship

200 social change

Batoro

212 team

4
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6 foreword

10 Biodiversity
mountain forest project

26 Agriculture
Finca Luz Serena
Campus Klein Altendorf—Miscanthus x giganteus

48 protest
Fridays for Future
Extinction Rebellion
Hambach Forest & Brown Coal

90 Energy
Wind Energy
Solar Plant Davos
Balcony Solar Power Plant

116 Mobility
Bike City Copenhagen

126 Education
Floating University
University for Sustainable Development Eberswalde

144 Consumption
Original unpacked
Bamboo Straws

156 waste
World Trash Center
trash picking

stnetnoC
174 Sustainable Construction
Eco Village Seven Lime Trees
Earthship

200 social change

Batoro

212 team

5
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They already exist now, the people who shape a sustainable in the areas of mobility, energy, agriculture, education,
future. sustainable building, biodiversity, protest, consumption, social
They reflect the wishes of many who want to save the change and the circular economy. The aim of this project is to
earth from final climate collapse and want a future worth living create a new, positive link to the climate crisis, because there
in is much more transformative energy in hope than in collective
drowerof

wish for all. Blinded by growth fear.

forced by the economy, it is now time to recognize the
associated destruction of our planet and the exploitation of In order to try out the change in this project myself, I
human labour. The future prospects work traveled almost exclusively by bike, bus and train and had
many positive experiences. I felt what deep solidarity means,
bleak and many people are discouraged in the face of the because it would not have been possible without the help of a
great challenges. great team, which volunteered to realize this book with me.

There is much more

Special thanks go to Jonas Wahmkow, Linda Loreen
transformative Loose, Clara Grunwald and Ina Friebe, who
energy in hope than in contributed to the book with their reflected perspectives and
have given even more expression to their large vocabulary. In
collective fear. addition, they stood me out
ernd with good advice to the side. I am also very fortunate to
This book shows: there are many good reasons to hope, work with
because in every crisis there is also an opportunity. Climate Judith Weber, who embellished the book graphically with her
justice means more than just nature conservation measures creative design. Tommi Aittala and Dave Kim actively supported
the project with the English translation. Anja Frank helped
men – it also stands for global justice and international solidarity. diligently with editing in German.
For successful climate protection, we need not only tech
Even without the many tireless Visio
nical solutions and a social one när:innen who met me with open doors and hearts, Solutions
Change in consciousness also new economic and would have remained a nice thought. Every single trip created
Social concepts that enable a fair redistribution of wealth, more awareness of how important it is that we pull together to
power and property. These tasks are complex and not without achieve something. I feel privileged to have been able to realize
hurdles, but they are still feasible and are already being lived this project and I am aware that the solution approaches cannot
by various communities around the world. We can implement be implemented in the same way for everyone. Due to limited
change in a socially just and environmentally friendly way, but resources, most of the projects portrayed are based in Germany
only together! and Europe. Nevertheless, we have not forgotten the
courageous people who are also fighting the climate crisis in
Africa, Asia, America and Oceania – and we hope to involve
Three years ago I traveled the world with my analogue them in a later project.
camera to find out how the climate crisis could be stopped. I
scored
on big-hearted dissenters and courageous utopians and
realized that everything we need for the transformation is
already there today. Solutions therefore wants to create
positive utopias and all people to their inherent The time to rethink and Andershan
nevertheless came! And you are cordially invited to become
remember potential. Without claiming to be exhaustive, part of the change and with this book you are already on the
Solutions is a gesture of invitation. On the following pages you way to an ecological and just future.
can find out about innovative solutions in the
Tina Eichner

6
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The people who are creating a sustainable future yourself about innovative approaches in the fields of
already exist. mobility, renewable energy, agriculture, education,
They reflect the wishes of many who want to save sustainable building, protest, consumption, social
the earth from ultimate climate collapse and who change and waste management.
desire a liveable future for all. The aim of this project is to create a positive
Blinded by the drive for economic growth, it is now connection to the climate crisis, because there is much
time to acknowledge the resulting destruction of our more transformative power in hope than in collective
planet and the exploitation of human labour. The fear.
future prospects look grim and many people are In order to put the transformation in this project
discouraged when faced with the great challenge to the test myself, I traveled almost exclusively by
before us. bike, bus and train, and had many positive experiences
along the way. I felt what deep solidarity means,
because this journey would not have been possible
There is much more without the help of an amazing team, creating this
transformative power in book with me as
unpaid volunteers. Special thanks are due to Jonas
hope than in collective fear. Wahmkow, Linda Loreen Loose, Clara Grunwald and
Ina Friebe, whose thoughtful per spectives and ability
This book shows that there are many good reasons to articulate these themes have given the book even
for hope, because in every crisis there is also an greater expressive power. They were also always
opportunity. Climate justice means more than just available to provide me with good advice. I am also
protecting nature, it also stands for global justice and very blessed by the collaboration with Judith Weber,
international solidarity. To protect the climate who has embellished the book with her creative design.
successfully we need not only technical solutions and
a transformation in public awareness but also new Tommi Aittala, Dave Kim and Ursula Lindenberg
economic and social concepts, which enable a just helped a great deal with the English translation.
redistribution of wealth, power and property. These Anja Frank undertook the second proofreading in
tasks are complex and not free of hurdles, yet they German diligently.
are still achievable and are already lived by many Furthermore, without the many tireless visions,
communities around the world. We can achieve who met me with open hearts and doors, Solutions
change that involves social justice and is would have remained a beautiful idea.
environmentally friendly, but only if we do this together! Every single journey created a greater awareness of
how important it is that we pull together to achieve a
Three years ago, I traveled round the world with higher goal. I feel privileged to have been able to
my analogue camera, to find out how the climate crisis make this project a reality and I am aware that not
might be stopped. On the way, I met generous people everyone will be equally able to put these solutions
who think differently as well as courageous utopians into practice. Due to limited resources, most of the
and found out that everything we need for the projects described here are from Germany and
transformation is al ready here today. Solutions Europe. Despite this, we have not forgotten about the
therefore wishes to create positive utopias and remind brave people who continue to fight the climate crisis
each person of their inherent potential. Without in Africa, Asia, America and Oceania - we hope to be
suggesting it covers everything, Solutions is a form of able to include them in a later project.
inspiration. Through the following pages you can Tina Eichner
inform

7
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ytisrevidoiB

8th
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ytisr
e
Biodiv 9
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One of the most important foundations of life on earth fell, are falling today in very short periods of time
is diversity. In the system of life, each species has and are damaging our flora and fauna. Climate
its specific task and is closely intertwined with natural change and dwindling biodiversity
cycles. Soil organisms, for example, loosen the soil are closely related and must therefore be solved
and enrich it with minerals and humus through the together. A high level of biodiversity is nature's most
decomposition of dead organic material. This allows important survival principle; it creates stability. This
plants to grow, which in turn provide habitat and food enables ecosystems to deal better with disturbances
for animals. This structure, which is worth protecting, such as climate change, diseases or pests. In
is of existential importance for people. It seems self- addition, high biological diversity has a positive effect
evident, but on closer inspection, biodiversity seems on the climate. Forests that are particularly rich in
like a gigantic network of pure, living magic. species can store about twice as much carbon as
monoculture forests.

In order to combat climate change, it is therefore

Species produce food, resources, and medicines. important to conserve biodiversity. On the one hand,
Ecosystems provide the planet with clean air, pure the destruction of species-rich habitats must be
water and fertile stopped. On the other hand, there are also many
ways to increase species diversity in cultivated
Man needs the landscapes. Stricter political regulations in industry
and agriculture are particularly important. But also
diversity of nature protective measures such as a ban on plant protection
and must preserve it.
in nature reserves or the reduction of land consumption
floors. In short: man is part of this diverse nature and through settlement construction and transport routes
must preserve it. According to ecologists, we are in already have a great effect. Investments in research
the sixth major extinction. The facts are alarming, and organic farming are urgently needed. They would
because every third animal, fungus or plant species enable a faster restructuring of agriculture. Protective
is now endangered. Countless species have already strips could be used on water bodies and between
been irretrievably lost. fields
be introduced as a simple means to the
The causes of the anthropogenic mass deaths are to preserve the habitat of many microorganisms
manifold. In order to quench the thirst for growth of If politicians don't act quickly enough and sufficiently,
our capitalist economy, new areas and mining areas the population needs to take action. The demands
have to be developed. Habitats that were once rich for more environmental protection measures must be
in species are being replaced by industrial a priority
action and, for example, taken to the streets in the
Agriculture, mining and settlement construction form of a protest.
destroyed. Our entire biosphere is at a critical point If you want to become active yourself, you can
due to the oversized one integrate many simple measures into your everyday life.
set of toxic chemicals. Organic and regional nutrition supports agriculture
Climate change is also endangering biodiversity. that produces food in an environmentally friendly
The rising temperatures are particularly damaging manner, avoids the production of unnecessary
ecosystems such as coral reefs, mangrove and greenhouse gases and enables more species-
tropical forests. The sea level is rising as a result of appropriate animal husbandry. Cultivation helps in
the climate crisis, low-lying regions and coastal your own garden or on the balcony
areas are already sinking into the sea. The succession insect-friendly plants to stabilize the population.
of rainy and dry seasons is becoming increasingly However, to stop the climate crisis and bring about
out of rhythm. political change, we all need to take action. TE
Rainfall earlier distributed throughout the year

10
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Diversity is one of the most important Biodiversity can react better to problems such as
foundations of all life on earth. Every climate change, diseases and parasites. A large
species has its own unique function in a variation of species have positive effects on the
closely interwoven ecosystem. For example, so il- climate. Forests with diverse flora and fauna are
dwelling organisms loosen the soil and provide able to store twice the amount of carbon dioxide
minerals and humus by processing dead organic as monoculture forests.
material. Plants are therefore able to grow, open
ring habitat and nourishment for animals. This
structure is essential for humanity and worthy of
Humans need the diversity
protection. It seems obvious, but biodiversity of nature and therefore we
acts as a giant network with many parts. Species
produce nutrition, resources and medicine. Eco
need to protect it.
systems provide the planet with clean air, pure
water and fertile soil. In short: Humans need the To fight climate crisis we need to achieve biodi
diversity of nature and therefore we need to protect versity and must stop the destruction of habitats
it. According to ecologists, we are in the midst of a rich in diversity. Stricter political regulations in
sixth mass extinction. The facts are agriculture and industry will help to increase
alarming: a third of the wildlife, plant and fungi diversity in cultural landscapes. Protective mea
population is endangered. Countless species have sures like the prohibition of pesticides in nature
already gone extinct and are lost forever. reserves, or minimizing the land usage for hou
The reasons for this mass extinction caused by sing and transport infrastructure have already
humanity are diverse. New areas and extraction proven highly effective. Investments in science and
sites are utilized by a hungry capitalistic economy, green agriculture are urgently needed and would
always seeking growth. Habitats once rich in enable a faster transition to sustainable
biodiversity are destroyed by industrial agriculture, agriculture. Habitats of small animals and insects
the mining industry and housing developments. can be protected by the simple measure of
Furthermore, the entire ecosphere of the planet is providing protective strips between fields and
in a critical condition due to the massive use of around water bodies. If politicians fail to act with
harmful chemicals. suffi cient urgency, public participation is required
Climate change is another major driver of to prompt them to take this matter seriously and
grading biodiversity. Rising temperatures are understand the true gravity of the current situation.
particularly harmful to ecosystems like coral reefs, Demanding more environmental protection must
mangrove forests and tropical woods. The be a priority, and if necessary, taken onto the
accelerating climate crisis is causing sea levels to streets in public protests.
rise, and lowland areas and coastal regions are Anyone wishing to take action themselves can
already sinking into the ocean. The chronology of integrate a lot of easy measures into their everyday
wet seasons, also known as the rainy seasons, and life. A diet based on organic and locally produced
dry seasons are being altered and shifted completely food supports farming that uses environmentally
out of balance. Rainfall that was once benevolently friendly methods of producing food, avoids the
distributed throughout the year now descends as release of unnecessary green house gas emissions
torrential downpours damaging flora and fauna, and enables species-ap propriate animal
and eroding precious soil. Climate change has a husbandry. The cultivation of sect-friendly plants
direct correlation to biodiversity and therefore need in the garden or on balconies helps stabilize stocks.
to be addressed simultaneously. It is the most In order to stop the climate crisis and to produce
important concept of survival for nature to have a political change, however, we all need to become
high biodiversity, as this creates stability. active together. TE
Ecosystems with rich

11
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pi.e right Oj e k t Bringing people into the forest to protect it - The volunteers do not need any prior knowledge
that was the simple idea of Wolfgang Lohbeck – just the will to do it for a week
(Greenpeace Germany) and the Swiss forester Renato sacrificing some comfort. Accommodation is in simple
Ruf. It came to them in the mid-1980s, when the huts, sometimes in tent camps. Lunch is cooked over
debate about dying forests was at its peak. They the fireplace in the forest, in the evenings the
founded Greenpeace's mountain forest project to association’s cooks prepare organic food that is as
stabilize degraded forests and achieve greater regional, seasonal and vegetarian as possible. A
understanding of forests. The first campaign took forester or landscape ecologist accompanies the team
place in 1987 in the Swiss canton of Graubünden. In as project manager; there are also trained, voluntary
niatnreutoam
w

1991 the Bergwaldprojekt became an independent group leaders. The volunteers thus support the work
organization with the Bergwaldprojekt Foundation in of the foresters, in whose districts there is often a
Switzerland and in 1993 the Bergwaldprojekt eV shortage of forest workers.
association in Germany. Since then, the mountain
forest project has developed remarkably: 40,000
volunteers have planted trees in six countries, among The mountain forest project not only aims to
other things, in Germany so far over three million at stabilize ecosystems, but also to sensitize the
almost 60 locations. About 97% of the trees will survive participants to nature conservation. "By working in the
if planted properly and carefully. The focus is no longer forest, people get closer to nature again," confirms
just on mountain forests: the mountain forest project Anne Range from the Bergwaldprojekt. »You see how
also maintains biotopes, renatures streams, rehabilitates the forest is doing and learn about the ecosystems. In
protective forests and carries out moor rewetting. the best case, people then go home and change
something in their everyday life.«

In addition to the normal service weeks, there are

The course of the individual project weeks is also family weeks, integrative campaigns for people
always similar. Around 20 to 25 volunteers come with disabilities or refugees, and one-day planting
together for a week to get involved in protecting and campaigns, such as here in Ludwigsfelde. For the first
preserving different ecosystems. Before the project time, there were more volunteers than ever before
week, there are agreements with the local foresters or
national park rangers to only carry out ecologically Action: 200 people, from children to pensioners,
sensible measures. Attention is paid to biodiversity. planted 3,000 trees. The feedback from the participants
For example, the project participants reforest spruce is consistently positive. “A great many are coming
monocultures with deciduous trees. "There are many back. 50% are repeat offenders,” Hiekisch smiles.
advantages to wanting a mixed forest," explains project »I've learned exciting and informative things, I've been
manager Sebastian Hiekisch. “Ideally, you never have physically active, I've done something good outside -
to do anything again because the trees regenerate there are a wide variety of things that people take with
themselves.” Only endemic1 tree species are planted. them. Except for sore muscles!« IF

1 Endemic (biology) means: occurring exclusively in a

certain area

12
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Bringing people into the forest in order to protect The volunteers do not need to have prior
it was the simple idea of Wolfgang Lohbeck knowledge, only a willingness to do without comforts
(Greenpeace Germany) and Swiss forester Renato for a week. Accommodation comprises simple cabins,
Ruf in the mid 1980s, when the debate about dying or sometimes a tent. Lunch is cooked on an open fire.
forests was at its peak. They founded the In the evenings, chefs from the association prepare
»Bergwaldprojekt« (Mountain forest project) with local, seasonal and vegetarian organic food. One
Greenpeace to restabilize damaged wood land and forester or landsca pe ecologist accompanies each
gain a better understanding about the ecosystem. The team as a project manager and trained volunteer group
first action took place in 1987 in the Swiss canton of leaders also take part. Volunteers support the work of
Graubünden. In 1991, Bergwaldprojekt became an the foresters, in a sector which often faces a shortage
independent organization with a foundation in of workers.
Switzerland and in 1993 an association, Bergwaldprojekt
eV, in Germany. The association not only wants to stabilize
Since than, Bergwaldprojekt has had an impressive ecosystems through the Bergwaldprojekt, but also to
evolution: 40,000 volunteers have planted trees (among raise awareness among the participants around nature
other things) in six countries - in Germany alone, over conservation. »By working in the woods, people
three million trees were planted in around 60 locations. become closer to nature again«, confirms Anne Range
Through expert and careful planting, about 97% of from Bergwaldprojekt.
these trees survived. For a long time now, the focus "They see the conditions of the forest and learn about
has extended beyond mountain forests. Bergwaldprojekt ecosystems. In the best cases, people change
also takes care of habitats, renatures streams, re something in their everyday lives, when they return
generates protective forests and rehydrates high home.«
moorlands. Alongside the normal action weeks, there are also
family-friendly and integrative activities for people with
The schedules of individual project schemes are disabilities and refugees, as well as one-day planting
very similar. About 20-25 volunteers come to gether programs such as the one in Ludwigsfelde. For the
for a week to plant trees or engage in the protection first time, a huge group of volunteers worked together:
and preservation of different ecosys tems. Meetings 200 people, ranging from young children up to
with local foresters or national park rangers ahead of pensioners, planted 3000 trees. The responses of the
action weeks take place to ensure ecologically useful participants were largely positive. "A lot of them return.
measures are carried out. You ring these meetings, About 50% are repeat offenders,” says Hiekisch with a
the focus lies on biodiversity. grin.
Participants support the regeneration of the forest by »I have learned exciting and informative things, I
planting deciduous trees. "There are many benefits, moved my body, I did something good outside - there
as to why you might want to have a mixed forest," says are many different things that people take home from
project manager Sebastian Hiekisch. it. Apart from sore muscles!« IF
»In the ideal case you would never have to inter vein
again, because the trees rejuvenate them selves.«
Only endemic1 tree species are planted.

1 endemic (biology) means: belonging or native to a

particular area

13
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14
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1 Planting explanation
(pp. 14-15)
Explaining how to plant
(p. 14-15)
2 tools
tools
3 conversation about the
state of the forest
Talking about the condition of
the forest
4 tree seedlings
saplings
5 tea around the campfire
Tea time by the fire

4
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1 Patricia with the hoopoe pick

Patricia with the planting hoe
2 Fedane when cutting roots
Fedane cutting the roots
3 volunteers press the ground firmly
Volunteers press down the soil
4 Klaus with a hoopoe pick
Klaus with the planting hoe

3
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19
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1 anchor with tree seedling

Anke with a sapling
2 Planting Alice and Roberta at the tree
Alice and Roberta planting a tree
3 young volunteers dig a planting hole
Young volunteer preparing for planting
4 volunteers with the tree seedlings
Volunteers with saplings

3
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21
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22
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1 Project manager Sebastian

Project manager Sebastian
2 tool
tools
3 Stephen, Managing Director and
Board of Directors
Stephen, manager and chairman
4 helpers press the earth firmly
Helpers press down the soil
5 Katy and Barbara planting the tree
Katy and Barbara planting a tree

5
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erutlucirga

24
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agriculturei
i
w
ymonoce
right

25
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Europe's agriculture is as diverse as the cultures of not only the pests, but also the food source and
its countries. Around 40% of the floors wer shelter for numerous creatures. In addition, high
is used for agricultural purposes and in doing so we concentrations of pollutants accumulate both in
have a significant impact on our environment. ecosystems and directly in organisms, making them
more susceptible to stress and disease.
An economic sector that
Each species needs certain conditions in its
shapes the landscape habitat to exist. However, the diversity of our
to this extent is closely landscape is being lost due to an increasingly uniform
agriculture
intertwined with the and with it biodiversity. Insect extinction
(habitat) protection of other entails a causal chain, because insects are the
foundation of a healthy ecosystem. With their
creatures such as disappearance, important plant pollinators are lost,
insects, birds and also clean water.
along with the food source for numerous species
such as fish, lizards, frogs, birds and mammals.
An economic sector that shapes the landscape to
this extent is closely linked to the (habitat)
Protection of other creatures such as insects, birds Industrial livestock farming is one of humanity's
and also clean water interwoven. But the greatest crimes. The extreme waste of resources
This co-dependence is given almost no meaning in damages the environment and fellow creatures have
a pro-growth, capitalist world that is still too profit- to live in agonizing conditions. Fattening pigs in cages
seeking. so cramped that they cannot turn and stretch their
legs when lying down. High-performance dairy cows
Europe operates a common agricultural policy that produce 40-50L of milk per day instead of the
that was established more than 60 years ago. usual 8-10L through breeding and concentrated feed
However, agriculture in the shattered post-war
Europe was confronted with very different problems
than today's agricultural culture. At that time, the
priority was feeding the people; food production
The reason for this tragic
simply had to be multiplied as cheaply as possible. development is the low
Despite the rapid success of this strategy, the catalog
food prices that drive
of goals was never adapted to the challenges of the
21st century. Europe has been producing more food producers to behave in
than necessary for many years, at the expense of our such an exploitative way,
environment.
as well as policies that
Cheap food produced by monocultures, energy still support these modes
crops (eg corn) and animal feed for meat production
degrade the dynamics of our soils. Over-fertilization
of production.
and the use of numerous chemicals have a variety of
effects on our water bodies and ecosystems live under constant stress and become ill. These are
just a few examples from a long list, as disregard for
teme. applicable animal protection laws has now become
Many species will die if the plant is too high the norm.
exposure to chemical protection agents, e.g. from
pesticides. The widespread use of herbicides The reason for this development is the low food
causes the disappearance of so-called »weeds«. Kill prices, which drive the producers to such exploitative
the toxic chemicals behavior, as well as

26
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a policy that still supports these modes of Agriculture in Europe is as diverse as

production. For example, if existing animal rights the cultures of its countries. About 40% of the soil
were implemented politically, a dignified life would is used for farming, which is why we have a
also be possible for numerous livestock. significant impact on our environment. This
economic sector that utilizes such a large part of
Consumers want to shop cheaply and overlook our land scape is also closely interwoven with
the multidimensionality of this problem, of product habitat protection of other creatures such as insects,
origin and production. Because follow-up costs local fauna and connected to clean water as well.
such as groundwater purification and soil treatment In a capitalistic world focused on economic growth
are not included in the till receipt. A bill that future and profit, however, this co-dependence is al most
generations in particular will have to pay for. entirely devalued.
Europe is governed by the Common Agricul
ture Policy (CAP), which had its foundation laid
Young consumers are attaching more and more over 60 years ago. The agriculture of a shattered
importance to freshness and regionality. post-war Europe faced entirely different issues from
Nevertheless, organic goods are still too expensive today. Back then feeding the population was the
for many consumers due to the usual low prices. top priority. To solve that issue, food production
Europe could afford to value its food more again. had to grow and be as cost-effective as possible.
One way of rewarding would be to pay farmers for Despite the rapid success of this strategy, the goals
ecosystem services. The cultivation of mixed have never been appropriately adjusted to the
cultures, for example, promotes biodiversity. challenges of the 21st century. For years, Europe
Composting recycles the soil and enriches it with has been producing more food than is needed and
nutrients. Its ability to hold water and bind nature is paying a high price for it.
greenhouse gases would increase again.
This economic sector that
utilizes such a large part of
Higher prices would enable more species- our landscape, is also
appropriate animal husbandry, and the suffering of
the animals could come to an end. Consumers tightly interwoven with
would not only improve the state of the environment, habitat protection of other
but also promote their own health and create a
viable future for future generations. TE
creatures such as insects,
local fauna and connected to
clean water as well.

Cheap and often mono-culturally produced feed for

animals in meat production, energy crops (such as
maize) and foodstuffs are degrading soil dynamics.
Overfertilization and the use of number rous toxic
chemicals have multiple impacts on our water
bodies and ecosystems. Species are dying out
because of pesticides. The extensive use of
herbicides is causing the disappearance of weeds,
as a result of which not only parasites are destroyed,
but insects and birds lose their living space and
food sources. High concentrations of these poisons
accumulate in our ecosystems and

27
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organisms, making them vulnerable to stress factors The reason for this tragic development is the
and disease. trend towards low food prices, which force far mers
Every species needs certain conditions to exist. to use such exploitative practices. There are even
Biodiversity and diverse landscapes are di political policies in place that support such production
sappearing because of the ever increasing homo methods. If animal rights recei ved a higher political
geneity of agriculture. The death of our insects leads priority, farm animals would be able to lead decent
to a causal chain, because insects are fun damental and dignified lives. Consumers want cheap
for a healthy ecosystem. This causes the loss of products, but overlook the multi-dimensional
important pollinators. While numerous species problems that begin with the very origins of the
including fish, lizards, frogs, birds and mammals product and continue all the way through the
lose their food sources and their num manufacturing process. Resulting costs like
Bers also decreases as a result. groundwater purification and soil structure restoration
Industrial scale livestock farming is one of the do not appear on a sales receipt. In many cases,
greatest crimes of humanity. The extreme waste of later generations will have to pay the bill.
resources damages our environment and the animals
concerned have to suffer agonizing living conditions, Young consumers care more and more about
such as fattening pigs in cages so narrow that they freshness and regional products. But the cost of
are not able to turn around or stretch their legs while organic food is still seen as too expensive by many
lying down. Milk cows consumers, especially those who have become used
to low prices. Europe could allow itself to value food
Reasons for this tragic production more highly. One possibility would be to
provide financial support to organic farmers in
development is the trend of return for their ecosystem services.
low food prices, which force the The cultivation of diverse crops for example
supports biodiversity. Through composting, the soil
farmers to use such rebuilds and is provided with nutrients. Its capa city
exploitative practices. There to hold water and to bind greenhouse gases would
increase.
are even political policies in Higher prices would make a species-appro
place that support these production methods.
priate animal husbandry possible and the suffocate
ring of these animals could come to an end. Con
bred as »high performance« livestock are fed with sumers would not only improve our environment, but
concentrate and forced to produce up to 40- would also improve their own health and create a
50L of milk each day, instead of the regular 8-10L. viable future for subsequent generations. TE
They experience permanent stress and ill-health.
These are only a few from a long list of examples,
since a disregard of animal welfare has become the
norm.

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eS ena
right
Since spring 2016, Michael and Yasmín for this is the attentive observation and humble
have been welcoming those interested in knowledge of natural diversity.
permaculture to their finca Luz Serena (in English: An inclusive and natural, co-existent way of life
Garden of Peace and Light). It is located in Bajamar, is encouraged by all residents
north-east of Tenerife. The impressive Anaga of the ecological project. The village's own
Mountains appear in the background of the project, knowledge center invites you to think further, which
which is a three-minute walk from the coast. The was built with the latest bioconstructive and sacred
garden is also an educational center where you can geometry techniques (including a mandala garden)
learn how to live in harmony with nature. According and continuously investigates the innovation of
acznuiF
L

to the ideas of the environmentally conscious couple, agroecology. The wisdom of nature and the
the finca should eventually grow into a small regeneration of the land are in the foreground of
community. the rich vision of Finca Luz Serena and attract many
volunteers from all over the world to compost, to
The site on which the permaculture farm is treat water or to help with strategic coordination.
located had previously been badly damaged because Based on solidarity and willingness to cooperate, a
it was being used as a rubbish dump and parking therapeutic-educational center is set up, a concept
lot, meaning that a major clearance had to be for natural products and handicrafts is developed
carried out in the first six months after the start of together, yoga is practiced and people meet in the
the project. Michael and Yasmín founded the NGO yurt. The multicultural and multilingual institution
The School of Creative Consciousness. That has been since 2007
even offers scholarships for the financially
Couple on their way to realizing the transformation underprivileged.
from conventional farming to permaculture
ted. Also in the areas of renewable
Energies and agroforestry, they have accumulated The difference to the commercial farmer
a wide range of expertise to live globally scaled community is: There is a fundamentally different set of ethics.
solutions to restore balance to the earth. Permaculture does not want to gain the highest
yields from nature, but to work permanently with
The sustainable concept of permaculture aims nature. It is about stable ecosystems that are
to create self-sufficient, living ecosystems that thrive stabilized by symbioses and a high level of
in harmony with nature with as little human influence biodiversity. The conventional farmer
as possible. Through plant synergies, an image of shank is dependent on fertilizers and yet struggles
nature that is as close as possible is (again) with nutrient deficiencies. A permacultural carrot,
however, has grown and matured through the
and ensure a better food supply through higher cooperation of an entire ecosystem – that is a
yields, for example through the replenishing effect completely different quality of food. It is also about
and pest control of planting garlic next to strawberries. the inner, personal healing of each individual. "I feel
we're on the right track - in our oasis, which is
thriving," says project manager Yasmín proudly. LL
The finca uses so-called flowforms as an
ecological, harmonizing field of action.
These diversely shaped water cascades create
awareness for dealing with water as naturally as
possible and have a meditative-therapeutic calming Michael and Yasmin have been welco
effect. ming permaculture fans to their Finca Luz Serena
As a manifestation of their long-term ecological way (English: Serene Light Gardens) in Bajamar, in the
of thinking for the next generations Northeast of Tenerife since spring 2016. The Anaga
constantly reconsidering how ecosystems can be Mountains form a stunning background to the project,
made even more durable. An example situated 3 minutes from the coast.

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It is an educational center for sustainable living and through careful observation and profoundly nature
may eventually become a little community. inspired understanding of diversity.
The site was previously highly degraded from An integrative and eco-friendly way of life is
having been used as a landfill and parking lot, pursued by all residents of the ecological project.
which meant the first 6 months of the project The wisdom of nature and the regeneration of
involved large-scale clearance of the site. The two landscape are at the foreground of the rich vision
eco enthusiasts founded an NGO, The School of of Finca Luz Serena and attract many volunteers
Crea tive Consciousness and since 2007, the from all over the world to take part in compost ing,
couple have taken a journey full of experiences strategic development or operational water
together, from transformation to permaculture, treatment. Rooted in harmony and willingness to
renewable ener gy and agroforestry, living out their cooperate, a therapeutic teaching center was built,
purpose for global-scale solutions for earth balance. natural products and crafts were developed
The sustainable concept of permaculture means together, and yoga practiced in the yurt. The
the creation of self-sufficient, living ecosystems multicultural and multilingual institution even offers
that thrive in harmony with nature. Plant synergies scholarships.
create the closest possible reconstruction of nature, The difference to commercial farming consists
guaranteeing improved food sup ply through higher of a fundamentally different ethic. Perma culture
yields. does not wisk to gain the highest yields from nature,
As part of the ecological, harmonizing ap but rather works permanently with nature. It focuses
proach, the finca uses so-called flowforms. These on fertile ecosystems stabilized by symbioses and
multiform water cascades promote awareness of high biodiversity. Conventional agriculture depends
the most natural types of water management and on fertilizers and has to continually fight with nutrient
are also intended to have a calming presence. deficiencies. In contrast, a permaculture carrot has
These garden elements are a material expression grown and matured through the cooperation of an
of long-term ecological thinking for the next seven entire ecosystem; that is a very different and
generations, as practiced by many indigenous powerful quality of food. »I feel we are on the right
people. There is constant exploration of how path - in our oasis that is thriving.« says Yasmín
ecosystems can be made more resilient, eg proudly. LL

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1 Yasmín and Michael on their permaculture

farm (p. 31)
Yasmín and Michael in front of their
permaculture farm (p. 31)

2 seedlings seedlings

3 outdoor kitchen
Outdoor kitchen

4 Michael, Yasmín and helper Andrin

Michael, Yasmin and volunteer
andrine
5 Michael and Yasmín in the
breeding station
Michael and Yasmin at the plant
nursery

5
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1 knowledge transfer during the tour

Sharing knowledge during a tour
2 Michael explains construction technology with
bamboo »CanyaViva«
Michael explains bamboo construction
»CanyaViva«
3 tour with interested people
Tour with supporters
4 bike washing machine
Bicycle washing machine

3
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1 mini tomato crop

Harvesting small tomatoes
2 Michael and Yasmín at the harvest
Michael and Yasmin harvesting

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right
– Miscanthus x gig anteus
It shimmers in a sandy color with subtly poisoned soils and gradually supplies them with
O mottled structures: the grass paper from the
Bonn Faculty of Agriculture.
nutrients and biomass again. The reed grass is
thus able to revitalize contaminated soil or soil
But that is by no means all that can be admired destroyed by agricultural monocultures. Climate
on the innovative Klein Altendorf university changes are also largely harmless for the robust
campus . In addition to the production of plant. Cultivating the plant for several years even
environmentally friendly paper and packaging increases the soil's capacity to bind carbon. The
alternatives, research is being carried out into what miscanthus expert takes advantage of this on his
the sustainable agriculture of tomorrow could look like. own farm and creates fertile land again in the desert
The campus, which consists of various teaching landscape of the Canary Islands.
and research stations as well as the
Competence center for horticulture and the
surrounding open-air laboratories enables The plant also protects the barren desert soil from
interdisciplinary research with a focus on erosion and provides a habitat for thousands of
sustainability. New technologies such as innovative insects and microorganisms.
roofing systems that react to climate change are When asked whether Miscanthus x giganteus
made visible to the public and can be tested here could help in the fight against the climate crisis,
on a 1:1 scale. Highly sensitive sensor systems the level-headed Michal Mos replied: »Definitely, in
ieatlC
sudpnme K
A

are tested in the greenhouses. They observe the many ways. Today we must play all the cards we
plants very closely and can determine how the have to enable sustainable agriculture. Mi scanthus
cultures react to changed growth factors such as x giganteus is an option to rebuild the soils
different climatic conditions or new fertilizers. depleted by our current agricultural industry. At the
same time, the plant provides a stable income for
farmers and is another important step towards a
One plant that is always the focus of research sustainable economy.« TE
is the Asian reed plant Miscanthus x giganteus.
The inconspicuous, rapidly renewable raw material
is a true all-rounder. As an admixture in the biogas
plant, the reed serves as a lucrative source of
energy due to its high calorific value.

The grass paper produced at the agri

Thanks to its various material properties, the culture faculty at Bonn University has a shimme
reed plant is also used as a building material. On ring quality and sandy tone with subtle flecks of
the research and production campus, the plant is colour. However there is much more to admire at
processed into insulating boards, for example. But the innovative Klein Altendorf University Campus.
that's not all. The plant is very nutritious and has Alongside the production of paper and packa went
the property of transferring all its nutrients to the alternatives, researchers look at what a sustainable
roots in winter. The researchers at the university agriculture of tomorrow could look like.
took advantage of this fact and the ability to bind The campus, which consists of different le
water to create a sustainable set of peat from the arning and research units, the Horticulture Centre
reed roots. Normally, peat is obtained from raised and surrounding open air laboratories, makes
bogs, i.e. from centuries-old, species-rich habitats interdisciplinary research, with focus on
that have to be destroyed for this purpose.
sustainability, possible. New technologies, like
innovative roo fing systems which react to changes
in the cli mate, are open to the public and can be
tested on a scale of 1:1. Highly sensitive sensors
Far away in the Atlantic, on the small Canary
are tested in the greenhouse, which precisely
Island of El Hierro, the biologist Dr. analyze the plants, while trying to figure out how
Michal Mos the miracle reed for another reason.
they react to different growth factors like various
The plant is almost undemanding in cultivation; it
climatic conditions, or to diverse fertilizers.
grows even on impoverished and

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A perennial plant at the center of the research During cultivation, the plant is easy to care for and
program is the Asian cane Miscanthus x gigan even grows on contaminated land poor in nutrients,
teus. This inconspicuous, quickly renewable providing it again with nutrients and bio mass. The
resource is truly an all-rounder. As an admixture in cane is therefore able to revitalize soil polluted by
biogas plants, the cane works as a profitable energy monocultures. Even climate change has little impact
deliverer, due to its high energy density. on this robust plant. Cultivation over several years
Thanks to its diverse material properties, the cane even increases the carbon-bin ding properties of
can also be used as a building material. At the re the ground. The Miscanthus expert is taking
search and production campus, the plant is advantage of this to create fertile land in the desert
processed into insulation panels among other things. landscape of the Canary Is lands. The plant also
And that is not all: Miscanthus x giganteus is very protects the soil from ero sion and offers habitat
rich in nutrients and has the property of storing all for thousands of insects and micro-organisms. To
its nutrients within the roots in winter. Researchers answer the question of whether Miscanthus x
at the university have utilized this fact, as well as giganteus can help against the climate crisis, Michal
the ability of the material to bind water, to create a Mos answers: »Definitely yes, in many ways.
sustainable peat replacement out of the caneroots. Nowadays we need to use all the cards we have
Normally, peat is obtained from high moorlands, got to create sustainable agriculture. Miscanthus x
destroying species-rich habitats that have evolved giganteus is one strategy to recover our degraded
over centuries. soil from the agriculture of today. At the same time
Far away in the Atlantic Ocean, on the small the plant provides farmers with a stable income
island of El Hierro, the biologist Michal Mos is and is another im portant step towards a
cultivating this miracle cane for another reason: sustainable economy.« TE

39
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40 5
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1 greenhouse and research

laboratory. Nowadays, the campus no longer
uses plastic packaging.
(p. 39)
Greenhouse and research lab. The campus
has now banned plastic bags. (p. 39)

2 samples Miscanthus x giganteus Miscanthus

x giganteus samples
3 Miscanthus x giganteus as
insulation Miscanthus
x giganteus used as insulation

4 Miscanthus x giganteus
5 grass paper and packaging
Grass paper and packaging
6 solar dryers
Solar dryer

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1-2
1 Miscanthus x giganteus as a peat substitute.
Nowadays, the campus no longer uses
plastic packaging.
Miscanthus x giganteus as a peat substitute.
The campus has now banned plastic bags.
3 Strawberries growing on Miscanthus x
giganteus

4
2 heads of lettuce on Miscanthus x giganteus
Lettuce on Miscanthus x giganteus 5
3 hill house as storage and equipment storage
Hill house, as warehouse and equipment
storage

3
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1 Michal with self-bred

Miscanthus x giganteus
Michal with Miscanthus x giganteus
plants from his own farming
2 planting in the desert soil
Planting into the desert soil
3 Treatment of the plant
Splitting the plant
4 Freshly planted Miscanthus x
giganteus
Newly planted Miscanthus x
giganteus

2 45
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ttse
PrO 47
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In the late 1970s, the American oil company Exxon Ultimately, an economic system that requires
commissioned a group of constant growth to sustain itself cannot be
Scientists to find out whether and to what extent sustainable. Unfortunately, the profiteers of fossil
the emission of carbon dioxide capitalism have little interest in making themselves
world climate warmed. Not only could this group superfluous through a more ecological form of
almost exactly calculate today's CO2 concentrations economy, as the example of the Exxon managers
from 1977 shows.

Scientific findings alone So is the situation hopeless? No! At the same

are not enough to time, there is no lack of technical solutions to the
climate crisis – what is simply lacking is the political
motivate decision-makers will to implement the necessary measures against
to act. existing resistance.
In order for something to move, it needs pressure
from the street. Social movements of the past have
shown: protest pays off!
tion in the atmosphere, but she also warned the The nuclear phase-out would be unthinkable
CEOs of the drama without the anti-nuclear movement, equal rights for
tical consequences of global warming. The women first had to be fought for by dedicated
consequence that Exxon drew from this was to sow feminists. Welfare state benefits and employee
doubts about the scientific nature of climate rights have been enforced because in the past
change with targeted disinformation campaigns. people have banded together to fight for them.
This anecdote shows quite impressively:
Scientific knowledge alone is enough
not sufficient to motivate decision-makers to act. Even a climate-friendly world will not just be
given to us. But in the face of ever-shorter time,
In a global economy powered by fossil fuels, people around the world are organizing themselves
many corporations see their profits threatened by to fight back
the profound ecological transformation needed to
halt the climate crisis. With lobbying, party donations In order for something to
and the killer argument of preserving jobs, they move, it needs
exert a tremendous influence on politics. That's
how they still drive in Germany thanks to VW & Co pressure from the street.
prevent the destruction of their livelihood.
most people in diesel cars instead of using the Whether mass demonstrations, road blockades or
train, and instead of expanding wind power, coal- tree occupations - the forms of protest of the climate
fired power stations are running longer. movement are diverse and creative. And they offer
The reasons for this lie less in the questionable reason for hope, because unlike a scientific report
moral concepts of the economic management
staff, but above all in the functioning of capitalism a protest movement is not so easily ignored. JW
itself: A

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In the late 1970s, the US oil and gas company tant growth to sustain itself cannot be sustainable
Exxon funded a study to find out if climate on a planet with finite resources. But, alas,
mate change is really caused by the emission capitalism and its profiteers are not much interested
of greenhouse gases. The scientists concern in abolishing capitalism by themselves, as the
ed not only predicted the carbon levels correctly Exxon executives demonstrated in 1977.
for the next 30 years, but also warned Exxon exe Is all hope then lost? Not at all. At the same
cutives about the drastic effects of global war time there is no shortage of technical solutions to
ming. Exxon was completely unfazed by these the climate crisis. There is only a lack of political
will to implement them. In order to get things done,
we need to create political pressure. Social
As this footnote of history
movements of the past have shown that protest
demonstrates, scientific pays off. The nuclear phase-out would have been
impossible without the anti-nuclear movement.
facts alone are not enough to
Progress towards gender equality was achieved
make decision makers only through the decades-long struggles of women.
Act. Social welfare and workers' rights were enforced
because people in the past fought for it together.
results and warnings. Rather than changing their
business model, the company launched a large In the same vein, many obstacles will be put in
scale disinformation campaign to cast doubt on the our way to a more ecological and just world.
veracity of climate change. As this footnote of As time is running out, people around the world are
history demonstrates, scientific facts alone are not organizing to resist the destruction of their future
enough to make decision makers act. livelihoods. The forms of protest of the new
Operating in a world economy driven by fossil
fuels, many companies see their profits endangered In order to get things
by the profound ecological transformation of society
that is necessary to stop the climate crisis. Through done, we need to create
lobbyism, corruption and the threat of mass layoffs, political pressure.
companies have an enormous influence on
politicians. Thanks to Volkswagen and its friends, climate movement are manifold. With mass de
everyone in 2020 is still driving around in diesel Demonstrations, street blockades or even tree-
cars instead of riding trains, and instead of occupations, people are expressing their demands
expanding the wind energy sector, coal power creatively yet peacefully. This is a reason to hope
plants are receiving lifetime extensions. – because unlike scientific reports, protest cannot
The root of the problem lies within capitalism be ignored for long. JW
itself: An economic system that requires cons

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O right f u ure
They are young and they are angry: Schoolchildren
all over the world take to the streets on Fridays for
But although the appeals to politicians have so far
been relatively unsuccessful, the students have
more climate protection; Inspired by activist Greta achieved a lot. Fridays For Future triggered a strong,
Thunberg, who was just 15 years old when she stood in extraordinarily young protest movement and a major
front of the Swedish Parliament for the first time on media debate in Germany and politicized many young
August 20, 2018 with her »Skolstrejk för people. They have thus become important players in
klimatet« (»School strike for the climate«) sign. Under the German climate discourse, in which they will certainly
syadirf

the hashtag #FridaysForFuture, the protest movement continue to engage loudly and furiously in the future
quickly spread across the globe – to Brazil, India and
Australia. In Germany, Fridays For Future has been on will interfere. IF
strike for a year now and is organized into over 700
local groups. There are also many solidarity groups
such as Scientist For Future, Parents For Future and
Grandparents For Future. In 2019, the movement They are young and they are angry: every friday,
mobilized for four global climate strikes, involving not students all around the world take to
only students but also workers and knowledge the streets to demonstrate for more protection of
the environment. Inspired by activist
Greta Thunberg, who on the 20 August 2018, at the
age of 15, stood in front of the Swedish parliament for
schaftler:innen participation. The largest climate protests the first time carrying her »Skolstrejk för Klimatet«-sign
in German history to date took place on September 20: (»Schoolstrike for Climate«). The protest movement
around 1.4 million people took part nationwide on the quickly spread all around the globe, using the hashtag
third day of climate strikes. The special: Among the #FridaysForFuture, all the way to Brazil, India and
demonstrators were many extremely young people, Australia. In Germany, Fridays For Future has been
even kindergarten groups. demonstrating for over a year, the organization having
700 local groups.
In addition to enthusiasm about their commitment, Other groups like Scientist For Future, Parents For
the young people repeatedly experience public attempts Future or Grandparents For Future have also shown
to discredit them from politics and society. It is not their solidarity with the Fridays For Future move ment.
uncommon for them to be In 2019, the movement was able to mobilize four global
unrealistic or they are accused of having no idea about climate strikes, in which not only students, but employees
politics and only being interested in truancy. and scientists took part. On 20 September 2019, the
biggest climate te strikes in Germany's history took
But the students prove that they can have a say place with about 1.4 million people participating all over
after all. In the meantime she has the country. One of the most interesting aspects of the
The protest movement has drawn up concrete demands demonstration was the demographics: many activists
that German politicians should implement in order to still were young people, children, or even kindergarten
achieve the 1.5 degree target set in the Paris Agreement. groups.
In doing so, they rely on the research of numerous
scientists. The three main demands: net-zero CO2 Alongside enthusiastic responses for their
emissions by 2035, phase-out of coal by 2030 and 100% commitment, the young people were often confronted
renewable energy supply by 2035. These demands may by attempts from politics and society to discredit them.
appear radical at first glance, but in view of the German They were often decried as unrealistic or were called
government’s sluggish climate policy and the "clueless kids" who do not
seriousness of the climate crisis, they appear legit. know anything about politics and only want to skip
school.
However the school children proved that they were
able to have a voice. Meanwhile, the protest

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movement created concrete demands, which they Although the political response left much to be
expect German politicians to implement in order to desired, the students have achieved a lot. Fridays
reach the 1.5 degrees Celsius goal of the Paris For Future is a strong, extraordinary youth protest
Climate Agreement. These draw on research by movement which has started a huge media debate
numerous scientists. The three main demands are: in Germany and helped many young people
net zero emissions by 2035, fossil fuel phase-out become involved in politics.
by 2030 and 100 percent renewable energy Young people, who became an important part of
supply by 2035. At first sight, these demands may the German climate discourse, will remain on the
seem radical, but considering the sluggish climate barricades in the future, demanding change, loud
politics of the federal government and the gravity and clear. IF
of the climate change crisis, they are appropriate.

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1 Young demonstrators in Berlin, at

Invalidenpark (p. 51)
Young protestors in Berlin at
Invalidenpark (p. 51)
2 Greta Thunberg at a Fridays for
Future demonstration in
Berlin

3 Thousands of demonstrators
protest in the streets of Berlin
Thousands of protestors demonstrating
on the streets of Berlin
4 Young protester
Young protestor
5 Demonstrator in front of the
Brandenburg Gate during the demo
Protesters in front of Brandenburgers
Goal during demonstration

4
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1 Intergenerational protest
Multi-generational protest
2 Tens of thousands of demonstrators
Tens of thousands of protestors
during global climate strike in Berlin
(Straße des 17. Juni)

3 demonstrators denounce the

fashion industry
Protestors against the fashion industry
4 young protesters on statue during protest

Young protestors on a statue during

the strike

54 3
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nR eb ell ion
The activists of the Local groups in over 30 countries. The movement
is organized in a decentralized manner, which
Initiate the Extinction Rebellion (XR for short) means that all local groups act independently and
protest movement . The dramatic name is an an without instructions from above.
play on the massive extinction of species, which is progressing Even if XR is not without controversy within the climate
faster and faster - and on the justice movement due to its apocalyptic appearance, the
Fact that humanity will ultimately be robbed of its livelihood if movement was able to inspire thousands of people to become
the climate crisis is not stopped in time. active for the climate. And they will
noitcnitxe

To prevent extinction and their urgently needed, because there is not much time
To push through demands such as CO2 neutrality by 2025, left. JW
Extinction Rebellion relies primarily on »civil disobedience«:
mass actions that deliberately violate the law, but always
remain non-violent. Hundreds of activists blocked the im
The activists of the climate movement Ex
tinction Rebellion (XR) set out to stop the
Autumn 2019 central streets and squares of Berlin climate crisis. The dramatic name of the cli
for days. There were similar campaigns not only in mate movement is both an allusion to the mass
Germany, but in capital cities around the world. extinction of species that is currently happening,
The activists understand their protest as well as to the threat climate change poses to
as art: Singing performances and acrobatics are not uncommon the very existence of humankind.
in XR blockades. a special To press for their demands, including carbon
The »Red neutrality beginning in 2025, XR's main tactic is
Rebels« – a costumed performance group the use of civil disobedience: mass blockades
gracefully passing through blockades and police of streets, squares and buildings to disrupt public
chains in silence. life. They deliberately cross legal borders but
Nonviolence is one of the principles of always remain peaceful in doing so. During the
Extinction Rebellion. Take the rebels »rebel week« in October 2019, hundreds of rebels
take this principle so seriously that the police are also treated brought central parts of Berlin to a standstill for
in a very friendly manner. Activists even thanked the officials many days. Similar actions were also carried out in
for “respectfully clearing” the blockades. other European capitals.
The activists also understand their protest as
XR wants to be as connectable as possible, for art. An especially impressive example are the "red
young, old and above all for people who find more rebels" - a costumed performance group that
militant forms of protest too radical and forth passes in solemn silence between activist
conventional demonstrations seemed too ineffective. blockades and police ranks.
Non-violence is one of the core principles of
Extinction Rebellion was founded in the UK in 2018 Extinction Rebellion. Some rebels take it that way
tannien founded by a group of activists and scientists. With an riously that they even thanked the police force for
approach based on scientific studies and the experiences of the "respectful eviction" after being removed from
past protest movements, they wanted to develop the most a blockade. XR is open to activists of all ages,
effective form of protest possible. The he young and old. Most importantly, the movement is
for people who are deterred by more militant forms
of protest, but at the same time are frustrated by
The result of their research shows that a small, active minority the ineffectiveness of organized marches.
of 3.5% of the population is enough to bring about social Aiming to find the most effective form of pro
change. Meanwhile there is XR - test, XR was founded in 2018 in Great Britain by a
group of scientists and activists. According to

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the founders of XR, if only 3.5% of the population

is active in a protest movement, massive social
change is possible. Meanwhile there are local XR
chapters in over 30 countries. The movement is
decentrally organized, each chapter acting
independently.
Even if Extinction Rebellion is criticized wit
towards the climate movement because of their
apocalyptic rhetoric, they have managed to mobilize
thousands of new activists to fight for the climate
te. And this is urgently needed if we want to stop
the crisis from deepening. JW

Red rebels pose during a civil

disobedience action

Red Rebells posing during an act

of civil disobedience
57
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1 performance of extinction
"In the"
Extinction performance »Die-In«

2 Human climate diagram

Human climate chart

3 liveries during the promotion

Paintings during the action
4 protesters block the
Potsdamer Platz
Protestors blocking Potsdamer
Place

3
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60 3
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1 Protestant uses her body as a

canvas
Protestor using her body as a screen
2 Logo of the climate movement
Logo of the climate movement
3 Family plays with soap bubbles during
the action
Family playing with bubbles
during the protest
4 crowd during the seat blockade

Crowd during a sit-in

5 Protester in "lock-on", glued to a car

Protestor during "lock-on",

glued to a wagon

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1 Crowd at Potsdamer Platz
Crowd at Potsdamer Platz

2 flag at the blockade on the

Oberbaum Bridge, Berlin
Flag during blockade of
Oberbaum Bridge, Berlin

3 Protestant reads XR newspaper with helpful

information
Protestor reading the XR newspaper
4 protesters block the bridge
Protestors blocking the bridge

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1 Creative protest preparation

Creative preparation for the protest
2 climate camp in front of the Bundestag
in Berlin
Climate camp in front of the
parliament in Berlin
3 Logo of the movement – an hourglass
Logo of the movement - an hourglass
4 The entrance to the climate camp –
a replica of the Bundestag
Entrance to the climate camp –
replication of the German parliament
5 tents for overnight stay and for
workshops
Tents for sleeping and workshops

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ts & Braunko hle

'Tell me something dirty! – Lignite,” jokes a sticker on a
De’s backpack
Substances have to stay in the ground if we want to mitigate
climate change. In addition
protesters. energy production must be radically converted to renewable
Lignite is dirty because it is by far the most harmful to the energies.
climate and inef The Hambach Forest, one of the last large mixed forests
most effective method of generating energy. When lignite is in Europe and a unique ecosystem, is such a natural heritage.
burned, huge amounts of carbon dioxide are catapulted into the Centuries-old oaks and beeches provide living space here
atmosphere along with other environmental toxins.
for many endangered species. But the above
Anyone who has seen a lignite opencast mine with their 12,000 years of forest history is threatened
own eyes inevitably understands the dimensions of the to come to an end soon. Every year a white falls
environment in advance The upper part of the forest fell victim to the powerful
rehcabmraoH
F

field is destroyed. Lunar landscapes of gigantic proportions shovels of the coal excavators. Where there used to
hardly allow one to imagine that fertile land was once here be a species-rich primeval forest, there is now an
85km² wide and 400m deep hole in the landscape. Here too
has. Entire villages had to be resettled so that the excavator lignite is extracted from the earth.
shovels could continue digging for coal undisturbed. In Not even a tenth of the majestic size of the original
Germany there are more than three hundred towns that had to 5,500ha forest is left. In order to prevent further destruction of
give way for the coal - involuntarily. the forest, activists occupied various areas of the forest for the
first time in 2012
In order to get to the lignite, tons of rock material, also
known as overburden, must first be removed. To do this, the forest. With tree houses, floor structures, tripods and barricades,
groundwater is pumped out, which drastically reduces the soil they tried to prevent the staff of the energy company RWE from
and water quality in the area. To these devastated clearing the land. Because it takes several hundred years for
an ecosystem to develop in a forest with the same diversity as
in the Hambach Forest – time that we no longer have.
Reconstructing and recultivating landscapes as well as possible
after opencast mining requires massive effort. Many problems
Over the years the forest has been cleaned several times
just starting now. The again rising, now heavily polluted cleared and reoccupied. The squatters, some of whom have
groundwater leaves lakes been living in the tree houses for several years at any time of
acidify and rivers by a chemical the year, are not only concerned with preserving the forest and
browning process. The deep holes will the immediate exit from coal and other fossil fuels, but also with
after the overexploitation of nature again with earth a different form of living together . The
heaped up. What remains is dangerously loose soil, which has
already led to massive landslides in the past. In short:
recultivation cannot replace the loss of the original nature. Activists try to avoid hierarchies by making all decisions
together and by consensus. Everything in the forest is shared -
whether tools, food or knowledge. The activists are living a
Germany is, in absolute numbers, the radical alternative to the capitalist and male-dominated majority
largest lignite miners in the world. So it's no wonder that the society. And with success, because without solidarity, mutual
German government is having such a hard time phasing out respect and a deep connection to nature, the Be
coal and keeps putting it off. Four of the five climate-damaging

Most coal-fired power plants in Europe are located on German

soil. The brown cabbage was unthinkable.
According to experts, any such occurrences would last for
decades. However, the fossil raw

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The conflict over the Hambach Forest reached its peak »Tell me something dirty! Brown coal”—
in autumn 2018. reads a sticker on a protestor's backpack.
Under pressure from RWE, nordrhein Brown coal is dirty because it is by far the most polluting
Westphalian state government under the pretext of fire and ineffective method of energy production. Vast amounts
protection to clear the forest again. Despite a large contingent, of carbon dioxide, among other pollutants, are catapulted into
the police needed several weeks to clear the occupation, which the atmosphere when brown coal is burned.
had grown to over 50 tree houses. On the seventh day of the
evacuation, 27-year-old journalist Steffen Mayn died in an Anyone who has the chance to see a coal mine with their
accident when he fell off a suspension bridge. Two days later, own eyes will inevitably under stand at what scale nature is
the evacuation continued. being destroyed.
Giant lunar landscapes almost do not allow the idea that here
was once fertile land. Whole vil
layers have to be resettled, in order to keep the excavator
But the bourgeois protest is also gaining momentum. The shovels undisturbed in operation, dig went further for coal. In
Hambach Forest has long since become a symbol of the anti- Germany, residents of about 300 villages have had to relocate
coal movement. for coal.
Tens of thousands of people from all races To reach the brown coal, tons of rock material, also called
At the beginning of October, layers of society come to the forest overburden, needs to be removed first. Ground water needs to
to demonstrate peacefully for its preservation and an end to be drained, which lowers the quality of the soil and the water
coal power. Shortly before him ne arby. To reconstruct and recultivate the devastated land as
the nature conservation BUND filed a lawsuit to stop the well as possible after the coal mine is closed, massive efforts
clearing prematurely. Only a little later, the first activists hang are required. Many problems are now clearly in sight. The now
in the treetops, secured by ropes, and rebuild the first tree badly pol luted water rises again in the area where it was
houses. previously drained, acidifying lakes. Rivers become me brown
due to a chemical process. The deep holes are filled again with
More than a year later it is clear: The Hambacher forest soil, after the overexploitation of nature. What remains is
is to be officially preserved. However, some squatters remain, dangerously loose ground which has led in the past to enormous
they do not trust RWE's promises. Part of the protest has now mous landslides. In summary: a recultivation can never replace
moved to nearby Lützerath. Despite the decision to phase out the loss of former nature.
coal, the village is to be excavated because mining there
promises greater profits.

Germany is, in absolute numbers, the biggest coal producer

In the meantime, the tactic of occupying the forest has in the world. No wonder then, that the German government is
found many imitators. All over Europe, activists use tree unwilling to face the difficulties of ending coal mining or tries to
occupations to prevent deforestation and to draw attention to post pone decision making. Four of the five most climate mate-
environmentally harmful infrastructure projects. Even if these damaging coal power plants in Europe are located in Germany.
efforts are not always crowned with success, the fight for the Experts say the coal sources could last another few decades.
Hambach Forest shows that protest is worthwhile. JW/ TE The fossil re

sources absolutely need to stay in the ground, if we want to

fight climate change. Energy production needs to be radically
converted to renewable energy. If not, our natural heritage will
be lost.
The Hambacher Forst, one of the last big mixed forests in
Europe with a unique ecosystem, is one such natural heritage.
Centuries old

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oaks and beech trees offer habitat for numerous land under the pretext of fire protection. Despite a
endangered species. The forest's history over more huge contingent of police, several weeks were
than 12,000 years is threatened with being brought needed to clear more than the 50 treehouses.
to an end. Every year, another part of the forest On the seventh day of the clearing, 27-year-old
falls victim to the shovels of the coal journalist Steffen Mayn accidentally fell off a
excavator. What was once a virgin forest rich in suspension bridge and died. Just two days after,
species is now a 85km2 big and 400m deep hole the clearing continued.
in the landscape. Here too, brown coal is being Despite this, civil protests also gained power.
produced. The Hambach Forest has long been a symbol of
At the time of writing, not even one-tenth re the anti-coal movement. Tens of thousands of
mains of the originally majestic 5,500ha forest. people from different social backgrounds came to
In 2012 activists occupied parts of the woods for the forest at the beginning of October to
the first time in history, to prevent the destruction demonstrate peacefully for its survival and the end
of the forest. They tried to stop employees of the of the coal industry. Just in time, the association
energy firm RWE from causing further deforestation Naturschutz BUND managed to stop the defo
by building treehouses, ground structures and restation through legal action. Soon afterwards, the
barricades. It takes centuries for a forest to first activists were suspended inside the treetops
develop a comparable ecosystem this rich in bio secured by ropes again and began building new
diversity: this is time that we don't have anymore. treehouses.
During recent years the forest has been clea More than one year later it is clear that the
red and occupied again. The occupiers, who lived Hambacher Forst is officially going to remain. A
in treehouses for a few years regardless of the few occupiers will stay put given the disturb to
season, not only wanted the forest to re main wards RWE. Part of the protest has shifted to the
unchanged and called for an immediate investment village of Lützerath. Despite Germany's decision to
from the coal industry and other fossil energy phase out coal, the energy giant still wants to
carriers but also promoted other forms of remove the village, because excavating coal there
coexistence. The activists modeled a radical promises bigger profits.
different concept to capitalism and a male- The tactics of forest occupations have won
dominated majority society. Without solidarity, imitators. Activists all over Europe occupy trees in
mutu al respect and a deep connection to nature, order to prevent deforestation and to raise
the occupation would have been impossible. awareness about the ecological impact of
The conflict around the Hambach Forest infrastructure projects. While not all are successful,
reached its apex in Autumn 2018. Under pressure the struggle for the Hambacher Forest demon
from RWE, the government of North Rhine- strates once again that protests pay off. JW/ TE
Westphalia arranged another clearing of the wood

Tree houses in the Hambach Forest

Treehouses at Hambacher Forst

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1 mourners at the scene of the fatal accident 3 sympathizers marvel a

succeeded journalist Steffen Meyn Tree house at about 20m height
Mourners at the scene of journalists Sympathisers gazing at a treehouse 20m high
Steffen Meyn's accident
2 Activist Tree House 4 demonstrators with tree seedlings
Activist's treehouse Protestors with saplings
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4 71
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1 tree house construction

Treehouse construction
2 demonstrators on a Sunday walk

Protestors at the Sunday walk

3 demonstrators build blockades
Protestors building blockades
4 activists build new tree houses

Activists building new

treehouses

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1 protesters during the

1-6
Big demo in October 2018 (p. 74-77)

Protestors during the biggest

demonstration in October 2018
(pp. 74-77)

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1 protesters during the 1-5

Big demo in October 2018
Protestors during the biggest
demonstration in October 2018

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2
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1 Özge at the edge looks into the 400m deep

hole of Hambach Özge at the edge of the
400m deep
excavation of Hambach
2 protesters shovel this
hole closed again
Protestors filling in the excavation

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2
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1 Visitors on a lookout look at the open pit
mine
Visitors at a viewpoint looking into
the coal mine
2-3
2 opencast lignite mine
Brown coal mining
3 brown coal 4
Brown coal
4
5 brown coal excavators
Brown coal excavator

4
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1-4
1 opencast lignite mine
Brown coal mining
5 A visitor looks at one of the
2
excavator's eighteen shovels

Visitor looking at one of the

eighteen shovels of the excavator

5
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1 brown coal mine at night
Brown coal mine at night
2 Promenade Terra Nova am
Hambach opencast mine – after
the opencast mine is closed, a
inland sea arise
Terra Nova Promenade next to the
Hambach coal mine—after shut
down, the mine will become a lake

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ygrene

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89 energy
Machine Translated by Google

The provision and use of electricity is both a curse and a because the cost of generating electricity in some regions is
blessing. It enables us to illuminate streets and houses, to cook the same as or even lower than that of fossil fuels thanks to
food and to operate ventilators, elevators or leaf blowers. technological advances. If the prices of coal, gas and nuclear
Nevertheless, this is also power were also based on ecological truth, they would be
unaffordable compared to renewables. Unfortunately, the
one of the most effective and most accepted ways to put our consequences of the current short-sighted actions in the form
limited earth system in a state of increasing chaos (so-called of crop failures, damage to property and the destruction of
entropy). For example, the energy chemically stored in a lump habitats will be felt much more severely than money can weigh.
of coal is not converted into ash, heat, greenhouse gases and,
in certain cases, moving leaves. The associated damage to the
environment can of course be minimized by using green
electricity. Nevertheless, one must bear in mind that although
green electricity is always renewable, it is not always sustainable. 85% of all greenhouse gases in Germany can be saved
So by switching the energy sector from fossil fuels to climate-friendly
alternatives.

However, this not only includes electricity from the socket, but
also mechanical energy in transport and industry as well as

However, one must bear in mind thermal energy for room and process heating. Designing all of
these areas ecologically can almost exclusively be achieved by
that although green electricity
taking a detour via electrical energy. Only with their help can the
is always renewable, it is not otherwise unused potential of geothermal energy (geothermal
energy), gravitation (tidal energy) or solar radiation (biomass,
always sustainable. solar and wind energy) be converted into usable energy.

Hydropower has been around for over a hundred

Established years ago as a good, cheaper but
unfortunately exhausted way of generating electricity. Germany currently has a share
According to this, new hydropower plants could only be installed 19.3% of renewable sources in the total final energy demand.
in Europe with significant interventions in nature. On the other There is still a long way to go to make progress towards 100%
hand, if you want to promote a sustainable power supply in the and contrary to some opinions there is no one right way. Instead,
form of wind power and photovoltaics, it is advisable to become different paths must be taken at the same time and with great
a member of an energy cooperative that specializes in these ambition.
energy sources. They bring the know-how and the capital to
have a chance on the electricity market. Because although the
renewable Let's play some future music:
Heat pumps heat our houses, transport runs on electricity or
fuels produced with its help and many other areas of life
re-Energien-Gesetz in 2000 Germany first became a pioneer in
are also up
area of the energy transition, 20 years electrified sol
later many obstacles are being put in
If the prices of coal, gas and This increased
the way of renewables through caps and nuclear power were also based demand requires an
distance rules. Fortunately, the sun and even more massive
wind are hardly on the Zuwendun these
on ecological truth, they would outflow
days be unaffordable compared to
construction of
renewables. renewable energies
instructed by the state than before. Since it is

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However, since the most cost-efficient options are The provision and use of electricity is both a
wind and photovoltaics, which can only be partially blessing and a curse. It enables us to light streets
foreseen, overcapacity must also be provided, and houses, cook food and operate medical
since the supply should also be secured on cloudy, ventilators, elevators and leaf blowers. Nevertheless,
windless days. At the same time, the need varies it is also one of the most effective and accepted
from time of day to time of day. In order to be able ways to increase chaos within our limited Earth
to guarantee grid stability across regions, more system: a term also known as entropy.
flexibility must be ensured. The expansion, linkage
or However, one should
Centralization and, if appropriate, decoupling or
emphasize that although
decentralization of the power grids and generators green energy is always
is an elementary start.
If there is a significant overproduction of electrical
renewable, it is not always sustainable.
energy, this can be collected in a widely ramified
For example, the energy stored in a lump of coal is
network and forwarded to consumers and storage
converted into ash, heat, greenhouse and, in certain
facilities. The latter can be not only batteries (ideally
cases, as suggested gases, into moving leaves.
in electric cars), but also large pumped storage
The inevitable environmental impact can certainly
power plants and private hot water boilers. These
be reduced by using green energy. How wever,
storage systems can step in when wind turbines
one should emphasize that although green energy
or solar parks produce less power than required at
is always renewable, it is not always sustainable.
other times. Electricity production is supplemented
by small incineration plants that generate electricity
While existing hydropower plants were al ready
and usable heat from renewable raw materials or
a great business opportunity long before "100%
biogas with almost no losses
hydropower" became a popular selling point,
installing additional hydropower plants in Europe
would only be possible by substantially interfering
provide. Furthermore, certain electrical consumers
with nature. In order to boost sustainable power
can be regulated down. For example, large cold
generated from wind and photovoltaics instead, it
stores may not need to run continuously or
is worth while becoming a member of an energy
cooperative. These have the knowledge and the
the dishwasher can simply wait until sufficient
capital to survive in a competitive electricity market.
power is supplied again.
Two decades after Germany became a pioneer in
Such a system calls for new investments on a
shifting its focus regarding energy generation from
personal, but above all on a political level, for more
economic to environmental concerns by subsidizing
trust and more courage. We have problems like the
ozone hole or acidic green energy immensely, wind and solar power are
now facing caps and permissible distance
Rain (almost) left behind, so leaf blowers shouldn't
regulations.
be our undoing. cg
Fortunately, thanks to technological advances,
renewable energy sources are no longer heavily
dependent on government subsidies.
In some windy or sunny regions the costs are
in fact as low as or even lower than those of fossil
fuels. If the prices of coal, gas and nuclear power
were to reflect the environmental damage they are
causing, they would already be unaffordable.
Unfortunately, the impacts of the current, short
sighted approach, such as crop losses, damage

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to property or the destruction of habitats will be vironmental conditions, an overcapacity is

experienced by us in ways that have more meaning necessary to ensure supply availability on still,
than money alone can reflect. overcast days.
A staggering 85% of all greenhouse gas To guarantee grid stability across regions, more
emissions in Germany can be avoided by flexibility needs to be provided. Fundamental steps
transforming the energy sector from fossil fuels would be the extension, interconnection or
towards climate-friendly alternatives. This, however, centralization and, where appropriate, decoupling
includes not only the electricity supplied through or decentralization of electricity networks and
the mains, but also producers. In case electricity
mechanical energy used Imagine the prices of coal, production exceeds demand,
in transportation and the surplus could be easily
industry as well as thermal
gas and nuclear power absorbed across an extensive
energy for space and reflected the environmental network and
process heating. Making all supplied to consumers and
areas these climate-
damage they are causing, storage units.The latter may
friendly can almost they would already be un include not only batteries, ide
exclusively be achieved ally in electric cars, but also
affordable.
only by a detour via large pumped-storage power
electrical energy. This also allows for otherwise plants or even private hot water boilers. These
unused potential of geothermal energy, gravitation storage systems would come into play at times
(tidal) or solar radiation (biomass, solar and wind when wind turbines and solar parks produce less
energy) to be harnessed. power than required.
Currently, 19.3% of Germany's final energy de This available output is supplemented by small
mand is supplied from renewable sources. There is incineration plants, which generate electricity and
a long way to go to reach 100% and, contrary to usable heat from renewable raw materials or
some expert opinions, there is no one correct way biogas with minimal energy losses. Ford hermore,
to do this. Instead, all available options need to be certain forms of electrical consumption could be
pursued simultaneously and ambitiously. reduced temporarily. For example, large refrigerated
Let us take a look at a possible future: heat warehouses may not have to operate continuously
pumps are warming our homes, transportation runs or dishwashers could wait until sufficient power
on electricity or alternative fuels and many more was available again.
aspects of life make use of electrified solutions. Such a system demands investments not only
The demand for electricity would increase at a personal level but above all, at a political level,
significantly and require a huge expansion of as well as greater confidence and courage.
renewable energy production. Since wind and We have left problems like the depletion of the
photovoltaics are the most cost efficient options, ozone layer or acid rain (almost) behind us. We
while being only partially predictable due to en shouldn't let leaf blowers be our downfall! cg

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The huge rotor blades rotate almost The people of Dardesheim are also positive
synchronously to the beat of the music. In the about their wind farm. In addition to great music
golden light of the setting sun, the wind turbines festivals, it also brings financial benefits to the
form an impressive backdrop for the revelers on community. JW
the Druiberg. Not far from the city of Dardesheim
in the Harz foothills, the Funkloch Festival , a non-
commercial, two-day music event, takes place here
every year. The festival is operated entirely with Almost in sync with the music, the giant rotor
wind energy from the park. Despite the immediate blades swirl. In the golden light of the passing sun,
proximity to the 112m high wind turbines, the the wind turbines create a stunning backdrop for
dancers do not feel disturbed. On the contrary, the the dancing festival crowd. Not far from the small
wind turbines make the festival unique for many. town of Dardesheim on the Druiberg hill, located in
the German province of Saxony-Anhalt, the annual
Not only music festivals are supplied with Funkloch Festival is taking place - a whole weekend
electricity from the Druiberg wind farm, which was of joy and electronic music. The festival is
endibnriuwt

founded in 2002. With an output of 82 megawatts, completely powered by clean energy from the
it produces as much electricity as a small coal-fired neighboring wind park. The festival-goers are not
power station – that is forty times more than the bothered by the wind turbines that are up to 112m
municipality of Dardesheim consumes. Dardesheim high. On the contrary, the spinning wheels make
is one of the pioneers of the energy transition. Not the festival a truly unique experience.
only wind power, but also photovoltaic and biogas Music festivals are not the only things power
plants generate sustainable energy. red by the wind park. Founded in 2002, the park
Storage technology such as pumped power stations has a capacity of 82 megawatts and produces as
should be able to store excess energy for calm much as a small coal-fired power plant. That is forty
days in the future. times as much as the neighboring town of
Wind power is the workhorse of the energy Dardesheim needs. The town is one of the
transition: more than a quarter of the electricity pioneers of the German energy transition. The town
generated in Germany is generated by wind turbines. relies not only on wind, but also uses solar and bio
There are around 30,000 wind turbines in Germany; gas to generate electricity.
the industry employs over 100,000 people. Wind power is the work horse of the German
In order to achieve the goal of 100% renewable energy transition: already a quarter of the energy
energies, however, many more wind turbines will produced in Germany is generated by wind
be needed. But the expansion has stalled in recent turbines. Around 30,000 turbines are installed
years. Long approval procedures, species across the countryside and the wind energy sector
protection and protests by concerned residents alone employs over 100,000 people.
prevent the construction of new parks in many To reach the goal of 100% renewables, many
places. However, the main reason for the decline more wind turbines are needed, yet in recent years
is the phasing out of political support for renewable the expansion came to a near halt. Bureaucratic
energies. hurdles, the protection of endangered species and
A minimum distance regulation that is also being protests by citizens prevent the creation of new
discussed threatens to bring expansion in densely wind parks in many places. One of the main causes
populated Germany to a complete standstill. is the government's drastic cut in subsidies for wind
The acceptance of the wind turbines is higher energy. On top of that, lawmakers are cur rently
than media reports and angry local residents discussing a drastic extension of the mini mum
would like to believe. According to surveys, the distance from inhabited areas. If passed, this law
vast majority of local residents are in favor of wind would mean the end of wind energy expansion in
turbines in their neighborhood. densely populated Germany.

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Wind energy is far more widely accepted by

local populations than media reports suggest and
politicians wish to believe. According to various
polls, a clear majority of people welcome wind
turbines in their neighborhood.
The people of Dardesheim love their wind park.
It is not only bringing them clean energy and a cool
music festival, but also financial benefits. JW

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1-2
1 Druiberg wind farm (p. 95-96)
Wind farm Druiberg (p. 95-96)
3
2 festival goers look at the
Sunset landscape
Festival visitors looking at the
landscape at sunset
4
3 wind turbine
Wind power stations
4 Access to the outside platform 5
a wind turbine of wpd
Access to outside platform of a
wind turbine of wpd

4
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1 View from a wpd wind turbine

View from a wpd wind turbine
2 blades of a wpd wind turbine
Wing of a wpd wind power station
3-5
3 wind turbines from wpd wpd
wind power stations

5
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e
G Dav O s
It is where you would least expect it: at 2500m have to import part of their electricity. The EKZ
altitude, on the Totalp above the Swiss district of project provides indications of how the increasing
Davos demand for electricity can also be covered from
village in the Valais Alps, there is a solar system. renewable sources in winter. IF
It is a test system from the Swiss energy company
EKZ, which is researching how alpine weather
conditions affect solar power production. Although
you wouldn't expect it, the conditions for the Located where one least expects it, at an
production of solar power in the mountains are altitude of 2500m in the Walliser Alps on top of
meratsloys

particularly favorable: the cold increases the Totalp above the Swiss district Davos Dorf there is
efficiency of the photovoltaic modules, and unlike a power plant. The test-plant was built by the Swiss
in the valleys, the sun's rays are rarely blocked by company EKZ to research how alpine weather
fog. In addition, there is the so-called albedo effect, conditions affect solar power production.
which occurs when snow reflects sunlight, and the The conditions in the mountains proved surprisingly
generally higher radiation intensity in mountainous singly favorable for solar power production. The
areas. cold increases the efficiency of the photovoltaic
modules and, different to the conditions in the val
In order to take a closer look at the advantages of ley, sunlight is seldom blocked out by fog. The so
all these factors, the EKZ project team installed 20 called "Albedo effect" occurs when sunlight is
different photovoltaic modules whose data are reflected by the snow and increases energy
compared with one another. The modules are mon production, as well as giving off more intense
at different angles radiation at higher altitude. In order to compare the
from 30 to 90 degrees, so that it can later be data on all those aspects, the project team at EKZ
determined which setting is optimal so that the installed 20 different photovoltaic modules. The
snow slides off the panels on the one hand and the modules are mounted at different angles, between
sun's rays on the other 30 and 90 degrees, in order to determine the
be captured optimally. Another difference between optimal setting, so that any snow will slide off the
the test modules: some have a common, panels and sunlight is captured as efficiently as
monofacial surface, while others are bifacial. This possible. A further difference among the test
means that the underside can also produce modules is that some have a one-sided, or
electricity. monofacial surface, whereas others are bifacial,
With the help of various measuring devices meaning that they generate power from both sides of the cells.
and a webcam, over a period of five years The company has spent about five years in
find out which of the modules are best suited for vestigating which modules are best suited for alpine
Alpine solar power production. Researchers at the solar power production. Scientists from ZHAW
ZHAW Wädenswil who are involved in the project Wädenswil, who participated in the project,
evaluated the first measurement data after the analyzed the first measured data from winter
winter of 2017/2018. The result was cause for 2017/2018. The results gave reason for optimism.
rejoicing: in the seven months of the dark years In the seven month-long dark period of the year,
the double-sided modules produced more power
For the rest of the year, the double-sided modules than an average solar power plant in the Swiss
produced more electricity than an average plateau Mittelland region does in an entire year.
Mittelland photovoltaic system in a whole year. The
researchers conclude from the data that house
facades at higher altitudes are also suitable for
solar panels. The results are particularly exciting in
light of the fact that Switzerland has a potentially
growing winter season

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The scientists concluded from this that solar 1 solar system near Davos,
at 2500m altitude
panels for the fronts of houses are suitable for high Solar power plant near Davos at
her elevations. The results of the research are of 2500m altitude

particular interest for Switzerland given the fact that 2 Solar system with panoramic views of
the Valais Alps (p. 102-103)
the state already needs to import some of its power Solar power plant with panoramic
during winter. This project by EKZ provides insight view on Valais Alps (p.
into how to produce enough energy to meet increasing 102-103)

demand, especially in winter, using renewable

resources. IF

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102
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1-2
1 Solar panels in different angles
Solar panels attached at different
angles
3
2 solar cells that generate electricity on
both sides
Solar cells able to produce power
from both sides

104 2
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105
l
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a right
ynocnlaub
s

anl inc e
An awning was needed because the
sun sizzles almost the whole day on the Sanne
family's balcony. The surprisingly high prices for a
bit of shade gave family man Moritz a clever idea.
Without further ado, he decided on a balcony
photovoltaic system as multifunctional sun
protection.
The module, which has found its permanent place
on the Sanne family's balcony, is now available in
a wide variety of designs. This makes it possible
whose ingenuity has already invented an electric
wooden bicycle and a sustainable bamboo walker
(more on this on pages 134-141) is actively
committed to the energy transition. He has already
helped some of his friends and acquaintances to
set up their own small solar power plant, which
costs between €350 and €550 depending on the
size. You can feel his great enthusiasm as he
goes on to say: “My goal is to push this movement
forward. I want individuals to be able to participate
to transport these small power plants, move them in the energy transition. The energy transition is
around and attach or detach them as you wish. important and there is no alternative. Every small
You no longer need your own house roof to set up investment means that we are taking a step in the
a photovoltaic system (PV system). Whether on right direction«.
the car roof, in the garage or in the garden - the
possible uses of the small systems are diverse. Despite the ease of use and the obvious
additional benefit, this sustainable energy
production method has so far only been used by a
Installing this sustainable power generator is small part of the population.
simple and usually takes just a few minutes. »Plug In doing so, it could decisively advance the energy
n' play. It's so easy that anyone can do it," explains transition, because: “The energy is almost loss-
Moritz. A PV module like the one used by the free for the user because he is also the producer or
Sanne family consists of a 265W PV panel that at least has one as a neighbor. It is therefore a
generates direct current and an inverter that decentralized solution without the overhead line. If
converts the generated electricity into normal the potential were fully exploited, we could almost
domestic electricity. The energy is then fed into the do without expanding the networks«.
house network via a line and thus covers the basic
needs of the family of three. The mini power plant For the advocate of the energy transition,
generates approx. 265kWh over the year: it supplies change means: »If you just question yourself.
the refrigerator, the lamps and the washing machine What can I change?” In any case, Anja, Moritz and
with sustainable electricity. In addition to the good little Tina like the strawberries best in the shade of
conscience, this also makes itself felt financially, their sustainable electricity generator. TE
because the family's electricity consumption has
been greatly reduced. “The electricity meter in the
basement suddenly stopped,” explains the father
of the family. Motivated by the success of the first
plant, the family quickly installed a second balcony When the Sanne family found out how ex
power plant. pensive an awning for their balcony to protect them
Instead of washing the laundry in the evening, from all-day sunshine would be, father Moritz came
the washing machine now runs during the day to up with a smart idea. He took a spur of the moment
make optimal use of the electricity generated. decision to use a balcony photovoltaic system as
Excess electricity is fed into the power grid and a multifunctional sun protection.
ends up directly with the neighbors. The Sanne The system, which is permanently installed on the
family does not get anything for this electricity. balcony of Sanne family, is now available in different
"But we know that our electricity is green," Moritz versions. This makes it possible to move, rearrange,
argues happily. attach or detach these mini power plants as one
Moritz, who works as a research assistant at wishes. It is no longer necessary to own a rooftop
the University of Eberswalde and with to install a photovoltaic system

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107
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108
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(HP). Whether installed on the car roof, on the roof Moritz works as a research associate at the
of the garage, or set up in the garden – the options University of Eberswalde and has already invented
for using these small systems are many and various. a wooden e-bike and a sustainable walker
made of bamboo (more about these on pages
These sustainable energy producers are simple 126-133). He is an advocate for the energy
to install, generally only requiring a few minutes. revolution and has already helped friends and
"Plug'n'play - It's so easy that anyone can do it," acquain tances to install their own solar power
Moritz explains. A PS module, like the one the plants, which, depending on their size, cost €350-€550.
Sanne family uses, consists of a 265W PS panel, His enthusiasm is tangible as he continues: "It is
which produces direct current, and of a power my goal to help this movement progress. I want
inverter, which transforms the power into alternating each person to be able to play a part in the energy
current (domestic electricity). transition. The energy revolution is crucial and
Furthermore, the energy is fed into the house's unavoidable. Every single plant is a step into the
network and covers the basic needs of the three right direction.«
member family. The mini power plant produces So far, this energy production method is only
about 265 kWh per year, powering the fridge, the used by a small part of the population, although it
lights and the washing machine with sustainable is easy to operate and obviously profitable. It could
energy. Apart from a clear conscience, the PS has provide an important boost for the energy revolution,
a positive financial impact too, since the family's because »The energy remains almost entirely with
electricity usage has fallen sharply. "The electricity the consumer, because they are also the producer,
meter in the basement suddenly stopped moving," or at least have one as their neighborhood. In
says Moritz. Encouraged by the success of their other words, this is a decentralized solution,
first system, the family soon installed a second PS without needing power lines. If the potential were
on their balcony. to be fully explored, we could almost do without
Now the washing machine runs during the day expansion of the electricity network.«
instead of the evening to most efficiently use the For this advocate of the energy revolution,
energy produced. Surplus energy is fed into the change means "Ask yourself: What can I change?"
power grid and supplies the neighbor directly too. In any case, Anja, Moritz and little Tina all find their
The Sanne family doesn't make money from this strawberries taste best in the
surplus, »but we know that our energy is green«, shade of their sustainable generator. TE
Moritz notes happily.

1 Sanne family in the hammock (p. 107)

Family Sanne in the hammock (p. 107)
2 The Sanne family on their balcony
Family Sanne on their balcony

109
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1 Anja and Tina in the hammock
Anja and Tina in the hammock
2 Moritz adjusts the angle of the
solar system
Moritz adjusting the angle of
the solar panel

110 1
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111
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1 Tina eats strawberries

Tina eating strawberries
2 The Sanne family on their balcony
Family Sanne on their balcony

112
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113
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mobility

114
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ytilibom

115
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Whether it's a flight to vacation, the daily commute to work or Bene cars would still have their place - before
even buying an imported banana – mobility is one of the most especially in sparsely populated rural areas to supplement local
important foundations of modern society. It seems that hardly public transport or in the form of car sharing models.
anything would work today if millions of people and things
weren't being moved back and forth every day. Our social life Despite promising research, long-haul flights will probably
is also affected remain an environmental problem that will be difficult to solve
for a long time to come.
But the pandemic in particular has shown that a large part can
be replaced: for example with video conferences instead of
Local public transport business trips or

plays a key role in the by holiday trips to nearer destinations.

Around a third of all transport emissions are still caused
mobility concepts of the by the transport of goods. Even if the ones with dirt

future.
Container ships fueled with heavy fuel oil may in
many different places: In distant places future be equipped with more environmentally friendly ones
Traveling countries, working there or visiting friends and Solar and wind drives are moved, the most promising approach
relatives is now easier than ever. Unfortunately, this will almost remains a drastic reduction in the global movement of raw
materials and goods. However, this decline would be a logical
always emitting greenhouse gases. It is therefore not surprising consequence of more ecological and fairer ways of life and
that the transport sector now accounts for almost a quarter of production. Instead of the Pro
global greenhouse emissions.
To relocate production to where labor costs the least, goods
To drastically reduce these emissions, should be produced where they are consumed as far as
we need new mobility concepts. Motorized individual transport possible. Durable and repairable design, consistent recycling
has served as a solution to the mobility needs of the population. and a move away from fast-moving consumer culture means
Instead of investing in freeways, significantly more must be that fewer raw materials and products have to be shipped
invested in rails, both for passenger and freight transport. around.

Most intra-European flights could be replaced with long-distance Many of these solutions only work if we change our way
routes and night trains. Even if it takes a little more time: it's of life and economy
not much do not focus on maximum efficiency and speed, but on
Wouldn't it be more comfortable to watch the landscape go by sustainability. Then not only the climate would win, but also
in a compartment than to wait in countless queues at the we ourselves, by finding slower but healthier, more ecological
airport? and more relaxed ways of getting around. JW
Public transport takes one
key role in the mobility concepts of the future. Especially in
big cities
he will help to replace the car. Fewer cars Many of these solutions only work
also mean more space for drivers
if we do not gear our way of life
bikes and pedestrians: inside. The transport and business towards
network of the cities must
be redesigned accordingly. Operated with
maximum efficiency and speed, but
green electricity towards sustainability.

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Be it the plane that takes you on holiday, the train Long distant flights will pose a challenging problem for
that makes your daily commute possible or the ship the environment despite promising research. But as the
transporting the banana you just bought from the store - pandemic has shown, most of these journeys can be replaced
mobility is an ubiqui tous feature of modern societies. It by less CO2-
seems that intensive alternatives: meeting virtually rather than taking
few things would work if millions of people and things were trips for business and academic conferences, or taking
not moved from point A to point B on a daily basis. So, our vacations in less distant destinations.
social life takes place across many different spatial locations.
traveling One-third of all emissions from the sector are
caused by freight transport. Even if at some point in the
Public transportation future giant container vessels are powered by solar or wind
energy instead of dirty crude oil, the most promising approach
plays a key role in the is to drastically reduce the amount of goods and resources
mobility of the future. shipped around the globe. If we adopt more ecological ways
of producing and consuming, freight transport volumes
to distant countries to visit friends and family or to meet would decrease automatically ly. Instead of shifting production
business partners has never been more accessible. to where labor costs the least, goods should if possible be
Unfortunately, a substantial amount of greenhouse gases pro duced where they are consumed. Durable and repairable
are emitted every time we step into a plane, train or car. Not design, as well as moving away from our fast-paced culture
surprisingly, the transport sector produces almost a quarter of consumption, would also mean fewer raw materials need
of all global greenhouse gas emissions. to be extracted

To reduce these emissions drastically we need new

concepts of mobility. The era of combustion engine vehicles and shipped around the globe for production.
as an all-round solution for increasing mobility has come to Many of these solutions will only work if we redirect our
an end. way of life and our way of doing business away from
Instead of pouring money into the construction of new maximum profit, speed and effi ciency towards maximum
highways, far more needs to be invested in railways. Flights sustainability. The winner would not only be the climate, but
within Europe could be easily replaced by overnight trains. ourselves as well. Getting from A to B would definitely be
Even if it does takes longer, isn't it more relaxing to watch slower, but at the same time more relaxing, heal here and
the landscape passing by than to wait in countless queues more sustainable. JW
at the airport?

Public transport has a key role to play in the mobility of

Many of these solutions only
the future. Particularly in metropolitan areas this will be able
to replace cars. Fewer cars also means more space for work if we redirect our way of
cyclists and pedestri ans, who can move around more safely
life and our way of doing
and quickly in a redesigned infrastructure that is catering to
their needs. Cars would not entirely disappear – electric-
business not towards
powered vehicles and effective car sharing platforms would maximum profit, speed and
support transportation requirements, especially in rural
areas.
efficiency, but instead towards
maximum sustainability.

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The car is the most inefficient form of with practical cargo bikes that are manufactured in
Mobility – in many ways. The average car driver many workshops in the city.
hesitantly pushes her way through German inner The result is that cycling in Copenhagen is not
cities, surrounded by three empty seats, a ton and a only significantly more comfortable, but also safer.
half of metal and hundreds of other motorists who The number of traffic accidents in Copenhagen is
do the same. If the car is not being moved through 90% lower than in comparable German cities – a
the slow-moving rush-hour traffic, it is useless on the lack of safety is one of the main reasons why many
side of the road for most of the day, on average it is road users here prefer the car to the bicycle, despite
23 hours a day. Space, clean air and quiet are some all the adversities.
of the scarcest resources in big cities, and of all
forms of mobility, the car is the most wasteful of Accordingly, Copenhagen spends a multiple of
them. what German cities invest in their bicycle network. It
was €36 per capita and year in 2018, compared to
just €5 in Berlin. But the investment quickly pays off.
In order to protect the climate and to have more Because every kilometer driven by car costs the
livable cities in the future, it is not enough to simply general public money. The costs for the
replace petrol with batteries, but new concepts are consequences of environmental pollution, global
needed. warming caused by the fuel and damage to the
Copenhagen is one of the cities in the world that infrastructure is 15 cents per kilometer driven.
has implemented this idea most consistently. The Society, on the other hand, benefits from cycling at
bicycle has long been the means of transport of 16 cents per kilometer.
choice for Copenhageners. In the Danish capital
there are five times as many bicycles as cars, 62%
of Copenhageners cycle to work or school – in all So – get on your bike and Copenhagenize! JW
weathers and all seasons.

The reason is not that Copenhageners are When it comes to urban areas, the car is in
particularly sporty or environmentally conscious many respects one of the most inefficient means of
compared to German city dwellers. Rather, it is the transportation. Surrounded by three empty seats and
result of years of clever transport policy. There are several tons of steel, the average motorist squeezes
over 400km of cycle lanes in Copenhagen. A large himself through the slow moving traffic of the inner
negahneepykotiC
B

part of it is structurally separated from footpaths and city. When the car is not jammed in the evening rush
car lanes and wide enough to offer space for several hour, it is usually uselessly standing at the side of
cyclists next to each other. the road, taking up space that could be used better
in almost any way imaginable. Space, clean air and
Intersections are designed so that cars turning right silence are among the most sought after resources
can spot bicycles early on. in metropolitan areas. Paradoxically, cars are
There are separate traffic light phases for cyclists extremely wasteful to all of these resources. To
to ensure that traffic flows smoothly. If it is red, protect the environment and also create more livable
there are special handrails for cyclists. Motorways cities, it will not be simply enough to replace fossil
and bridges specially designed for ecological two- fuel powered cars with battery-powered vehicles.
wheelers ensure that you can often get to your Instead, we need new concepts of transportation.
destination faster with a pedal drive than with a car.
And if something heavy needs to be transported or Copenhagen is one of the cities that has already
the children need to be taken along, the fully embraced this thought. For quite some time
Copenhageners make do with Copenhagen residents have favored the bicycle over
the automobile as their transport of choice.

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There are five times as many bicycles as cars in the Danish for a ride, sturdy cargo bikes can be used that are
capital. Almost two-thirds of Copenhagen residents use manufactured in numerous workshops in the city.
their bike for their daily commute – year round, rain or The result of all these measures is that cycling in
shine. Copenhagen is not only far more comfortable than in most
The reason is not that Copenhagen's people are more German cities, for example, but is also much safer. The
conscience about their health or their environment number of road accidents is on average 90% lower than in
compared to inhabitants of other capitals. The popularity of Germany. The lack of road safety is one of the main
bikes is the result of years of smart traffic policies. Currently, reasons why many Germans in urban areas prefer to drive
there are over 400km of bike lanes in Copenhagen. Most rat her than cycle.
of these are broad enough for multiple bikes to ride parallel
to one another. Furthermore, they are clearly separated Not surprisingly, Copenhagen invests sub stantially
from motorized vehicle lanes. more than German cities in their cycling infrastructure. The
numbers tell a clear picture.
Crossings are designed in a way that a cyclist will be seen Copenhagen spent €36 per resident on cycling infrastructure
well in advance by right-turning vehicles. in 2018, in contrast to a mere €5 in Berlin. This investment
There is also an independent traffic light circuit for cyclists quickly pays for itself, be cause each kilometer driven by
— all to try to make sure cyclists and motorists do not get a car costs society ty an estimated 15 cents through
in each other's way and that bike traffic runs smoothly. climate change effects, damaged roads and air pollution.
When the lights turn red on yway, there are special holding Convert sely, society profits by 16 cents for each kilometer
bars for cyclists. ter traveled by bicycle.
Special fast cycle routes and bridges enable
Copenhageners to reach their destinations usually faster The message is clear: get on your bike and
by bike than by car. And if there is some hanging heavy Copenhagenize! JW
to transport, or the kids want to join in

119
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1 Snakebridge bicycle bridge in Copenhagen
(p. 119)
Snake Bridge bicycle bridge in Copenhagen
(p. 119)
2 wide cycle lanes marked in blue
Wide, blue colored bikeways
3 bike racks
Bicycle stands
4 road markings for
cyclist
Markings on the streets for
bicycles
5 handrails for cyclists
traffic lights
Handrails for cyclists at
a traffic light

4
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121
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122 2
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1 Snake Bridge
2 cargo bike crossing the street

3 bicycle parking on two floors

Two-story bicycle parking
4 shadow play of the bicycles
Shadow images of the bicycles
5 cargo bikes on the Circle Bridge
Cargo bikes on Circle Bridge

5
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noitacude

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Education 125
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Understanding life as a permanent development be part of the curriculum. Also curiosity about
process, correctly assessing the opportunities and background information relevant to the ecosystem,
risks in budding ideas and including the ecosystem such as knowledge about the relevance of bees
as a whole in decisions: These are important skills people in agriculture belong in this field of
that are currently only rarely taught in the sustainable learning. A practical implementation of
conventional education system. In addition, these teaching principles can already be found in
education is even some comprehensive schools with learning
sponsorships, ecologically oriented educational
institutions with learning programs in the school
It is all the more important garden or in the concept of forest kindergartens. In
to teach system skills such the formats there, deep emotional and formative
relationships are built up with nature as a place of
as sustainable thinking to learning. Learning formats are determined based
future generations. on the needs of child development and ecological
skills are trained at the same time. However, the
strengthening of one's own social skills and the
connection to nature in the comprehensive school
not equally accessible to everyone in Germany. system - apart from niche concepts - must continue
There is often insufficient promotion of individual to be urgently promoted.
interests. Students with weak learning skills do not
become efficient A global understanding and a degree of
funded enough. The class size exceeds the average creative competence form the cornerstones of a
German classroom healthy resilience and self-efficacy of the child of
With 30 children and a poor social status, children the future. This learning forms the political basis
do not have access to solid, excellent learning. It is for a functioning world civilization. In this way,
all the more important to teach system skills such subsequent generations can be self-sufficient as
as sustainable thinking to future generations. responsible citizens of the world and act for the
livelihood of the community. LL
This includes skills such as understanding the
effects of the cycle in natural and social systems,
the selection of existential information, the However, the strengthening of
associated reduction in complexity, as well as one's own social skills and
intercultural acceptance and the ability to cooperate
carefully.
the connection to nature in the
Not only interdisciplinary knowledge, but also comprehensive school system
the autonomous participation in social decision-
making processes, such as the election of a future-
- apart from niche concepts -
proofing party, should must continue to be urgently promoted.

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Today's education system lacks some Curiosity about background information relevant
of the fundamental cornerstones required to face to ecosystems, such as information about the
the current problems. Skills like understanding life importance and relevance of bees in agri culture,
as a process of ongoing development, assessing the are also part of sustainable education. A practical
opportunities and risks in budding ideas and implementation of these principles can already be
considering the entire ecosystem in decision-making. found in some comprehensive schools that have
Even in Germany, a quality education is not equally learning partnerships, educational institutions with
available to all. Often students with poor grades or an environmental focus, those with learning programs
marks are not sufficiently supported to improve. The using outdoor spaces, and the concept of forest
average class size in Germany exceeds 30 children kindergartens. In these setting, students can develop
and social disad profound, formative and emotional relationships
with nature as a place of learning. Educational
formats are based on the requirements of child
This includes skills such
development along side the acquisition of ecological
as understanding the skills. However, strengthening the social skills of
individuals and their connection to nature within the
effects of the circulatory entire com
system in natural and social prehensive school system, rather than as a niche
concept urgently requires further support.
systems, the selection of A global understanding of and measure of design
important information, competence provides the foundation for a healthy
resilience and self-fulfilment for future generations of
reduction in complexity children. This learning forms the political basis for a
as well as in tercultural functioning world civilization.
This will enable subsequent generations to have a
acceptance and mindful cooperation.
voice as world citizens, to be self-sufficient and to
act to preserve the basis of life for the community
vantage denies children access to inclusive and as a whole. LL
excellent learning opportunities. It is therefore all the
more important to teach future generations about
systems thinking. This includes skills such as
However, strengthening one's
understanding circular effects within natural and own social skills and their
social systems, selecting key information, a related connection to nature in the
reduction in complexity, and also intercultural
acceptance and mindful cooperation. comprehensive school system -
Not only interdisciplinary knowledge but also
independent participation in social decision-making,
apart from niche concepts -
such as the choice of a political option en suring must urgently be continued.
future sustainability, should be part of the syllabus.

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n
v e sit y right

Well hidden behind trees, between allotment

gardens and only a few hundred meters from the
embodies on a small scale what the city could be
in a post-capitalist, sustainable world.
closed Tempelhof Airport, is the floating university1 A world in which nature and culture are no longer
in the heart of Berlin . The name is somewhat opposites, but coexist inseparably intertwined. The
deceptive, as most of the campus platforms are Floating University
firmly anchored in the bottom of the stormwater shows that urban space does not have to be the
retention basin. result of man's subjugation of nature, but can be
In 2018, a group of architects, artists, something created by both together. JW
scientists and students from a wide range of
disciplines founded the company
gnitaolU
F

the Floating University as a place for learning,

experimenting and doing. It was originally supposed
to be dismantled again in the same year, but the Well-hidden behind trees and gardens
project was extended by two years due to the in the center of the city, only a few hundred
positive response. Meanwhile, the Floating University meters away from the former airport of Tempelhof,
lie the floating university. The name is a bit
run by a club. She sees herself as misleading – it is not a state-approved university
Platform for workshops, installations, art and and thus not allowed to carry the title officially.1
knowledge transfer. Various future designs of Also most of the platforms on which it rests are not
urban togetherness are presented here re ally floating but tightly anchored into the floor of
life tested and practiced. the rainwater storage basin.
Collects in the concrete basin In 2018, a group of architects, artists and scien
ankle-high the rainwater that falls on the disused tists of various subjects and their students created
airfield to then be channeled into the sewers. the floating university as a space that invites
Although the water is contaminated with petrol and people to experiment, learn and make. Originally it
kerosene, numerous plants and animals have was planned that the campus would be dismantled
settled here, including various types of algae. the same year but due to the overwhelmingly
Recently, the Floating University has also found its positive reaction, the project was extended for two years.
home here. Meanwhile the »university« is run by a registered
Visitors can explore the biotope and examine association. The project sees itself as a platform
the algae. Ways are also being tested of filtering for workshops, installations and the arts and as a
the polluted water in order to recycle it as drinking place of knowledge and learning.
and irrigation water Different visions of urban community are
and thus make them available for the university's created and practiced here. In the concrete basin,
showers, toilets and plant beds. rain water from the adjacent abandoned Tempelhof
In another workshop you learn about the habitats airfield is collected and directed into the city's water
of insects, mosses, fungi and microorganisms - in system. Despite contamination with petrol and jet
order to then recreate them for the urban fuel, many plants and animals have found a home
environment. in the basin, among them different types of algae.
With the Floating University, the makers have The floating university is one of the latest newcomers
created a place of culture and encounters that not in this community. Visitors can come here to explore
only appeals to academics. There is a special the biotopes, where examining the algae is only
program for adolescents and regular neighborhood one of the options for exploration.
programs. The children from the neighboring At another workshop, visitors can learn about the
refugee accommodation, which recently closed, habitats of insects, moss, mushrooms and micro
also stopped by to explore the biotope in rubber organisms in order to rebuild these in the urban
boots. The place environment. Attempts have been made to purify
the contaminated water to use as drinking wa

1 Since it is not a recognized university in the traditional sense, it is 12 Since the project doesn't have a new name yet we will use
no longer allowed to bear the title in its name – until a new the stroke through form: university.
name is found, the “University” remains crossed out.
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Ter and irrigation for the plants grown at the site. The place embodies on a small scale what
More than just a place for learning, the creators urban living in a post-capitalistic, sustainable and
have also made space for culture, supporting en ecological society could be: A world where nature
counters between people, the city and nature, in a and culture are not opposites but rather inseparably
way that appeals not only to academics. There is a co-existing. The floating university
special program for young people and regular proves that urban space does not necessarily mean
programs for the local community. Even the kids the subjugation of nature by mankind, but is
from the recently closed nearby refugee center something that can also be co-constituted by both.
came to explore the basin in their rubber boots. JW

129
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1 Floating University in Berlin (p. 129)

Floating University in Berlin (p. 129)
2 entrance area with water wheel
Entrance with water wheel
3 visitors during the
Climate week 2019
Visitors during the Climate week
2019

4 visitors explore the biotope

Visitors exploring the biotope
5 floating platform as the place of
encounter and knowledge transfer
Floating platform as a place of
exploration and education
6 visitors explore the biotope in
rubber boots
Visitors exploring the biotope in rubber
boots

4
130
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131
Machine Translated by Google

1 Exploration of plants and

creatures of the biotope
Researching plants and living
creatures in the biotope
2 tracks in the mud
Traces in the mud

3 algae laboratory
Algae laboratory
4 visitors explore the site
Visitors exploring the campus

3
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133
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tn i c ung Eberswalde small

w Sustainability means being alive.

One place where this is particularly consciously
researched and scientifically supported is the
at. When something isn't working, I want to know
why and make it better. Patents are a thing of the
past. Open source is the future«.
Eberswalde University for Sustainable Development. The graduate engineer Moritz Sanne also
Since 1830, the former forest college has been a enjoys tinkering with sustainable innovations. In
center for science on all aspects of sustainability in cooperation with various partners for official
business, agriculture, wood engineering and research projects, he designed the legendary
forestry. The municipal ecological turnaround wooden bicycle, which is now well-known throughout
enables a high level of practical relevance in the city, and a bamboo walker.
teaching and exciting projects in the Berlin area. The Wood E-Bike is made from local ash and has
a range of up to 100 km at a speed of 25 km/h. We
Patron of corporate climate protection is the are waiting for serial production! LL
all-rounder and resource protection officer Kerstin
Kräusche. With a blazing zeal, she pays attention
to the own climate balance of the scientific institution
north of Berlin and acts as a pioneer for numerous
internal and external university projects. The Sustainability means being alive. The
sustainability performance of the canteens and the Eberswalde University of Sustainable Development
climate neutrality of the HNEE are being (HNEE) is a place in which this is researched with
continuously improved and mobility concepts are particular insight and awareness from a scientific
being developed. In addition, open events such as perspective. Since 1830, the former forestry
the "Sustainability Days" take place, which attract university has been a center for research into future
ng uroC
iaetsllo Sf
E

many ecology and innovation enthusiasts to the sustainability in business, agriculture, timber
elbae

Barnim campus with current topics. engineering and forestry. The communal ecological
transition enables a high degree of practical
relevance in teaching and exciting projects in the
Extraordinary research achievements are Berlin area.
accomplished in the four departments. The institutional figurehead of climate protection
This also includes the mushroom project by Malte is the Resource Protection Officer, Kerstin Kräusche.
Larsen, who studied International Forest and She monitors the research institution's own climate
Ecosystem Management. During his studies, he protection rating and acts as an ad visor for
researched a natural compound made from fungi. numerous internal and external projects.
Unfortunately, the production had to be partially The sustainability performance of the cafeteria is
stopped due to a patent from the USA. Many new continuously being improved, mobility concepts
ideas emerged from the young researcher's spirit, designed and the climate neutrality of the HNEE
such as climate simulation containers for urban ensured. In addition, there are public events such
mushroom cultivation, meat substitutes and various as the "Sustainability Days" that bring people with
other concepts. an interest in ecology and innovation to the Barnim
This consistent research into practical solutions campus to discuss current topics.
is to be understood as a peaceful, ecosystem- Brilliant research work takes place across the
preserving coexistence between mankind and all four departments: this includes the Mushroom
living creatures in their diversity, explains Malte Project by the International Forest and Ecosys tem
Larsen – detached from the university of applied Management postgraduate, Malte Larsen,
sciences. This is central to our well-being on this researching a natural composite material derived
planet. However, a cultural and spiritual revolution from mushrooms. Due to a patent from the United
is much more important than technical solutions States, production had to be partially discontinued.
these days: “I am driven by a passion for games Despite the setback, the young researcher has
and a thirst for knowledge developed various other projects eg, cli

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mate simulation containers for urban mushroom

cultivation, meat substitutes and various other concepts.

Larsen points out that this determined search for

practical solutions should be understood as the peaceful
ecosystem-preserving coexistence between humanity
and all fellow beings, which is crucial to our well-being
on this planet. Yet he also feels that a cultural and
spiritual revolution is even more important than any
technical solution.
»My passion for playful exploration and thirst for
knowledge drive me onward. If something do not work,
I want to know why and to do it differently. Open source
is the future.«
The engineer Moritz Sanne also loves to create
1
sustainable innovations. In cooperation with various
1-2 Forest Campus of the partners, he developed a legendary woo den bicycle
University of Applied
for an official research project, which is now known
Sciences
Forest campus throughout the city of Eberswalde, as well as a bamboo
of the University walker for the elderly. Made from local ash tree, the
wooden e-bike has a range of up to 100km at speeds of
25km/h. We look forward to this going into production!
LL

2
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City campus of the University of Applied Sciences

Campuses in the city of Eberswalde
2 Waste separation on campus
Recycling bins on campus
3 Sustainability Officer
Kerstin Krausche
experts for sustainability,
Kerstin Krausche
1361
4 flags on the college campus
Flags on the university campus
5 University of Applied Sciences library
building
Library on the university campus

2
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3
4

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1 gift box on campus
Free box on the campus
2-3
2 exterior views of various
University of Applied Sciences building
Outside view of the university body
4
3 shrubs on the green areas of
city campus
Shrubs on the green areas of the city campus

5 student Selena at the

4
gift box
Selena, a student at the Freebox

4
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1
1-3 Malte Larsen at work with his
fungal cultures
Researcher Malte working with his funghi
cultures
4
2 research associates
Moritz on the wooden e-bike he developed

Research fellow Moritz on wooden e-bike

he designed
5-6
3 Moritz with a bamboo walker he
developed
Moritz with his walker design, made of bamboo

3
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1414

6
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noitpmusnoc

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n mus

KO 143
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Consumption used to have the task of covering Goods are often produced in the Global South
basic human needs. But who under inhumane conditions. A tiny part of the
goes shopping today, rarely does so just to fill up. earnings ends up with the workers who risk their
Guided by manipulative industry advertising health every day for our next bargain. Consumers
strategies that tap into the deepest human needs must become aware of their responsibility again,
and desires because their purchasing decisions have a
significant influence on production. Become polluting
However, if our consumption and unso
behavior does not change, Goods produced by lidarism are no longer bought,
the natural resources of the so they cannot exist on the market - the
Production is discontinued.
earth will not be sufficient Sustainable consumption must be compatible
for all people for much longer. with people and nature over the long term. In the
jungle supermarket you can use quality seals such
len, the desire for more and more new products as the Fairtrade or the organic seal as a guide.
never seems to be satisfied. The citizens of the Even if the various test seals have different strict
western world in particular consume far too much – requirements and are therefore criticized, they are
And the trend is rising! In our capitalistically oriented still the more sustainable choice. Compared to
society, consumer goods serve to express one's conventionally manufactured goods, goods with
own personality. Consumption not only promises these seals represent a minimum standard that
social recognition, but also an emotional experience. protects the environment, people and animals. The
Similar to consuming a drug, the buying process most sustainable form of consumption is indisputably
releases the mood-enhancing neurotransmitter direct purchases from regional manufacturers who
dopamine in the brain. A short moment of joy for offer their goods at weekly markets and in farm
which the environment pays a high price. shops. In German
For example, institutions such as the Marktschwarmer
have formed in the country, an association of
Important raw materials such as crude oil and producers who offer pre-ordered goods at a weekly
phosphorus are mined for the production of goods. market.
If our consumer behavior doesn't change Vegetable boxes are also becoming increasingly
changed, the natural resources of the earth will not popular.
be sufficient for all people for much longer. Lots of It is clear that not only the individual can change
greenhouse gases are released during production, something. It is also necessary for industry and
which accelerate global warming. The resulting politics to undergo change
waste grows over our heads. Goods often cover hen. The industry could fall back on environmentally
considerable transport distances before they end friendly raw materials and extend the shelf life and
up with the consumer. Industrial toxins guarantee of their products. Another step in the right
direction would be to ensure that consumer goods
pollute the soil and groundwater. Experts are are repairable and recyclable. Political regulation
already warning of the impending conflict of the industry could be achieved through subsidies
ties to freshwater resources and arable land. and bans
In addition, large areas of forest are cut down and take place. For example, the use of environmentally
lost as CO2 storage. With them, the livelihood of hazardous substances could be prevented and
countless animals, fungi and plants disappears. sustainable economic cycles promoted.
Consequently, one can say: the more we consume, In this still distant vision of the future one after
the more we damage our own livelihood. Not only Sustainable shopping behavior means that people
nature is exploited, but also people. consume less, but of higher quality. TE

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In the past, consumption meant fulfilling Not only nature but also humans are exploded.
our basic needs. Those who go shopping Goods are often produced under inhumane
today rarely do it just because they are conditions in the global south. Unfortunately, a very
hungry. Guided by manipulative advertising small portion of the earnings for these products
strategies, which appeal to our deepest needs and ends up in the pockets of the labourers. The same
wishes, our constant desire for new products is laborers risk their health on a daily basis for our
never satisfied. Citizens of the western world next good shopping deal. The consumer needs to
especially consume and consume – an increasing be aware of their responsibility, because their
trend. In the capitalist-driven society, consumer purchase decision significantly influences the
goods serve as an expression of one's own production practices. In order to end explosive
personality. Consumption not only promises social production practices, consumers need to make a
recognition, but also emotional experiences. Similar conscious decision not to buy products that promote
to the effect of some drugs, shopping releases the such inhumane labor conditions.
mood-lifting messenger substance dopamine inside Sustainable consumption needs to harmonize
the brain. It is a short moment of joy, for which our with nature and humans. Inside the supermarket
environment has to pay a high price. chaos, consumers can orient themselves by looking
Important resources like petroleum and phos for quality marks, like the fair trade or or ganic
phorus are used for the production of goods. If our certification marks. Although different certifications
consumption habits do not change, earth's natural have different standards, a point that is often
resources will run out and will no longer be criticized, they still support more sustainable
options. Compared to conventionally produced
If our consumption habits goods, the products with quality marks pre sent a
minimum standard which preserves nature, animals
do not change, earth's natural and people. The most sustainable form of
resources will run out and consumption is indisputably buying directly from
regional producers at weekly markets and farm
won't be sufficient for all shops. Institutions such as Marktschwarmer in
human beings anymore. Germany offer their pre-ordered goods at weekly
markets. The popularity of vegetable boxes, or
sufficient for all humans. Large amounts of green vegetable boxes, is on the rise. These veg boxes
house gas emissions are released during are delivered from the producers directly to their
production, which accelerate global warming. Our customer's homes.
land fills are overflowing. Goods often have to travel It is clear that it is not only the individual that
huge distances to reach the consumer. Toxic needs to change. It is also necessary that politics
substances from the industry damage our soil and and industry make changes too. Manufacturing
groundwater. Experts are already warning about industry could work with environmentally compatible
potential conflicts around freshwater resources and resources and extend the durability of their products.
farmland. Furthermore, extensive swathes of forests Another step in the right direction would be to make
are cleared and lose their function as CO2 products that are serviceable and recyclable.
storage. The habitat for numerous plants, fungi and Politicians could regulate production through
animals are lost simultaneously through subsidies and restrictions. The usage of
deforestation. It is safe to say that the more we con environmentally polluting materials could be
sume, the more we reduce the basis for all life on prevented this way and sustainable economic cycles
the planet. supported instead. With sustainable consumption
habits, people would consume less in future, but
therefore of a better quality. TE

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ev pac ct
right
You won't find products shrink-wrapped You will not find plastic-wrapped products
n in plastic here, but instead large containers
and sustainable items made of wood, bamboo or
here. Instead you will find huge containers
to fill up your own bags or sustainable items
cellulose. In the Berlin Original-Unverpackt store, made of wood, bamboo or cellulose. As the name
the name says it all: The alternative supermarket suggests, the Berlin shop Original-Unverpackt
enables its customers to shop without packaging - (Original Unpacked) is an alternative supermarket
as one of the first unpackaged stores in Germany. that allows its customers to do the shopping without
packaging – it was one of the first of its kind in
After a successful crowdfunding campaign, Germany.
lanigirO
U

Sara Wolf and Milena Glimbovski opened the After a successful crowdfunding campaign, in
»Original-Unverpackt« store in 2014 on 2014 Sara Wolf and Milena Glimbovski opened the
Wienerstrasse near Görlitzer Park. An online shop Original Unverpackt store in Wienerstrasse near
with recycled packaging material and climate- Görlitzer Park, in the Kreuzberg district.
neutral shipping followed in 2016; in 2019 the In 2016, an online shop followed, using recycled
second Berlin store in the west of Kreuzberg. With packaging and a climate-neutral delivery service.
their concept, the two founders have committed In 2019, the second store opened in West
themselves to the zero-waste lifestyle, with which Kreuzberg. The two founders' concept promoted a
environmentally conscious people around the zero-waste lifestyle, in which environmentally
world try to lead as waste-free a life as possible. conscious people around the world try to live without
The current range includes more than 600 items, producing trash. The shop's range of 600 items not
including not only food, but also cosmetics, only includes food, but also cosmetics, cleaning
cleaning products and reusable containers. products and reusable containers. Clients bring
their own jars, weighing them before and after filling
The customers come with their own cans, which them with the products of their choice.
they weigh before and after filling them with their
desired products. The Original-Unverpackt store shows how
The »Original-Unverpackt« store shows how successful this concept is: Each day about 120
successful this concept is: On average, around 120 customers visit the shop in Kreuzberg. There are
customers come to the Kreuzberg branch every organized tours around the alternative supermarket
day. There are guided tours for school classes, for school classes, to learn about how to recycle
where they learn about recycling and waste and avoid producing waste. On their web site, the
avoidance. On the website, the founders offer an founders provide online classes, which explain how
online course that explains how to open your own to open your own packaging-free supermarket.
zero-waste store. Milena also gives lectures on the Milena also gives lectures on the whole topic of
topics of sustainability, zero waste and sustainability, zero waste and en trepreneurship at
entrepreneurship at conferences and events. meetings and events.
Original unpacked is much more than just a
small alternative supermarket. The store and the
»Original-Unverpackt« is much more than just team are pioneers for sustainable consumption and
a small, alternative supermarket. The store and its pass their inspiration back to the zero-waste
team are pioneers in sustainable consumption and community from which they emerged. Original
reflect their inspiration back into the international unpacked proves that a waste-free life does not
zero-waste community from which they emerged. have to remain a utopia. IF
»Original-Unverpackt« thus proves that a waste-
free life does not have to be a utopia. IF

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147
Machine Translated by Google

148 4
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1 Shop front of the Unverpackt 3 weighing station in the supermarket

supermarket in Kreuzberg (p. 147) Weighing station at the supermarket
Shop front of the unpacked super 4 In the supermarket
market in Kreuzberg (p. 147) In the supermark t
2 filling stations in the supermarket 5 unpackaged items in the checkout area
Filling stations at the supermarket Unpacked items near the tills

149
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e and e right
W ande r raw material
Everyone is now talking about the fact large quantities can be felled without endangering
that single-use plastic products harm our the stock, since the multi-talented plant does not
environment. Whether the use of sustainable die out after the harvest, but continues to sprout.
n
straws really has a decisive impact on our Putu and her family harvest the stalks from the
environment is something that bar guests still nearby forest when they reach a height of about
disagree on. two meters. The freshly harvested stalks are first
But does it really make a difference whether dried in the sun and then washed.
the guest sips their drink from a standard plastic
straw or uses a sustainable alternative? Originally, After the first cut to the standard length of around
the eco-friendly predecessor of today's plastic 20 cm, the stalks are freed from trimmings. The
version was made of straw, which gave it the name initially sharp-edged ends are then ground off and
straw. With the development of polymer chemistry, the finished products are cleaned again. In this
this natural product was replaced by thin-walled way, 50 drinking straws are produced in one day,
plastic. Studies from 2019 show that around 10 the sale of which secures the family's livelihood.
million tons of plastic end up in our oceans every
year. Usually only used for decorative reasons,
drinking straws are designed to end up in the trash From July 3, 2021, single-use plastic products
after a very short time, but they often end up in will be banned in the EU and the industry will
our precious ecosystem instead. Single-use plastic increasingly switch to sustainable alternatives.
products are not only criticized for their manufacture. When you enjoy your future favorite drink, you can
make a contribution to the environment at the same
arastB
oosbwm S
a-

time. Cheers! TE

Plastic consists of crude oil and various additives

such as plasticizers and fillers, a mixture which,
depending on the composition, sometimes takes The fact that single-use plastic damages
centuries to decompose. our environment is well known. Yet con
sumer opinions are still divided as to
They also become a lethal hazard for animals whether sustainable straws really make a
that swallow or become entangled in the plastic significant difference.
parts, and ultimately end up in the human food The predecessor to the current plastic straw
chain. Alarmingly, according to the German was indeed made from straw, hence the name.This
Ministry for the Environment, plastic straws are natural product was replaced by thin-walled
among the products that are most often found in synthetic versions, which came with the advances
the seas. It is clear that it is not enough just to do in polymer chemistry. Studies from 2019 prove that
without plastic straws. In order to stop pollution, the about 10 tonnes of plastic end up in our oceans
use and manufacture of all plastic products must each year. Straws, mostly used for decoration, are
be greatly reduced. made to be discarded after brief use. Most of them
end up in our precious ecosystem instead of a bin.
These single-use plastic products are not only
The small Balinese family business Putu's criticized for their production, but also for their
Bamboostraws offers a simple, very attractive disposal. Plastic is made from petroleum and
alternative to this careless use of resources with different chemical additives, like plasticizers and
its hand-made bamboo straws. Bamboo, which fillers. The resulting products pollute the
belongs to the botanical genus of grasses, is a fast- environment - depending on their chemical
growing, resilient resource that is naturally hollow. composition it can take centuries before they break
Yearly down. In addition, they are a deadly risk to animals
who swallow low plastic, or get caught in plastic. thesis same

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Animals ultimately end up in our food chain. According and her family harvest the stalks in a nearby for rest
to the German Ministry of the Environment, plastic when the bamboo has reached the height of two
straws are some of the most commonly found products meters. The freshly harvested stalks are sun dried and
in the ocean. In order to stop the pollution we need to washed afterwards. The bamboo stalks are then cut
reduce the usage and production of plastic products to a length of twenty centimetres.
in general. The sharp-edged ends are ground smooth and the
The small Balinese family business offers Putu's finished product is cleaned one last time. The family
Bamboo Straws, with its handmade bam boo straws, produces fifty straws a day and are able to make a
a simple but attractive alternative to this negligent use living from the work.
of resources. Bamboo, which belongs to the genus of Starting on 3 July 2021, single-use plastic products
sweet grasses, is a qui ckly renewable, resilient will be banned in the EU and the industry will have to
resource that is naturally hollow. Large amounts of it look into sustainable alternatives.
can be cut down in a year without endangering stocks. You can contribute to the environment in future while
The multitalented ted plant does not die off, but enjoying your favorite drink with a natural straw –
sprouts again. putu Cheers! TE

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1522

4
Machine Translated by Google

1 I Putu Agus Widiasa with their

sustainable bamboo straws
(p. 151)
I Putu Agus Widiasa with her sutai
nable bamboostraws (p. 151)
2 The bamboo straws will be in
dried by the sun
Bamboo straw drying in the sun
3 Cleaning the bamboo straws
Cleaning the bamboo straws
4 Bamboo is cut into small pieces

Bamboo cut into small pieces

5 Removal of trimmings
Removing leftovers after cutting the
ends
6 Detail of the finished straws
Detail of the finished straws

56

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circular economy

154
Circle
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tfahs
t
let's runi right
right
155
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Many people in Germany are over it from only 20 rivers. These are mainly in countries to which we
shows that they are already acting in an Europeans also export our plastic waste.
environmentally friendly manner if they are polite
in separating their rubbish. But paper, for example, Leave it already on the manufacturer's side
can only be recycled about six times. Even the maximum avoid
one large amounts of rubbish. Increased resource efficiency
The use of waste glass in glass production (70-90%) reduces and recycling of operating materials already offers economic
the enormous energy requirement by just a quarter, and plastic
cannot be used at all A lot of potential in production. How strong
a product in the course of its life its environment
Two-thirds of the waste that impaired, is primarily determined by its design. So if the focus
is on durability and usability, this in turn enables new forms of
ends up in the world's use that are popular in the constantly growing sharing economy.
oceans comes from just 20 rivers. From laundromat to car sharing to chemical leasing, this
collaborative model places more emphasis on service than
recycle, just downcycle. The packaging that accumulates in the ownership.
green dot is first processed into granulate, which, however, due
to its reduced quality, is returned to the packaging cycle at most
as a cleaning agent bottle. After several runs, the plastic
molecules only end up in In principle, it is also possible to avoid waste through everyday
consumer behavior.
Do you really need certain goods now, in these quantities or at
Products such as park benches or plant pots, which all? Or do they otherwise end up in the trash after the expiration
in turn at the end of their lives together with millions date? Even things that
of tons of residual waste in the waste incineration plant
factory or otherwise burned. meet the legal definition of “waste” at first glance, i.e. “all
The list of those ver substances or objects that the owner discards, wants to discard
related problems is long: CO2 from waste-to-energy plants, or has to discard” (KrWG § 3 Para. 1), do not necessarily have
methane emissions and surface sealing through landfills to to succumb to this fate. Maybe they just have to change owners
dubious machinations in the global waste business. Improper more often
disposal in nature is also a never-ending dilemma

sel. Or as the saying goes: »One person's trash is another

in modern society. Two thirds of person's treasure«. cg
waste that ends up in the world's oceans

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Many people in Germany are convinced disposal of garbage in the countryside is a never-
that they are doing a lot for the environment by ending dilemma of modern society. Two-thirds of the
properly separating their recyclables. waste polluting the oceans originate from just 20
However, paper, for example, can only be reused rivers. Most of these rivers are found in count
around six times, and even introducing the maximum ries to which Europeans in fact export a lot of their
amount (70-90%) of used glass into glass production own waste.
processes can only reduce the enormous amount of Waste prevention can effectively begin at
energy needed by a quarter. Furt hermore, plastic production levels. Increased resource efficiency and
cannot actually be recycled, but rather downcycled. recirculation of materials offers a lot of potential from
The granulate made from pa ckaging collected in an economic point of view alone. Furthermore, most
the recycling bin can, due to its decreased quality, be of the environmental impact caused by a product is
reintroduced as deter gent bottles at best. Plastic already determined through its design.
molecules are more likely to end up in benches or Consequently, if the focus switches to durability and
flower pots, which, at the end of their lives, will be usability, new and collaborative forms of use are
burned in waste to-energy plants, along with millions facilitated, which appeal to the growing sharing
of tonnes of residual waste. economy. Launderettes, car sharing or chemical
leasing for example, show that results are valued
more than ownership. And of course each individual
consumer has the chance to avoid generating waste
Two thirds of the waste through their personal decisions.
polluting the oceans Are specific goods really needed right now, in these
amounts or at all? Or will they inevitably end up in
originate from just 20 rivers the bin after expiring? Even the things that seem to
meet the definition of »waste« as
The list of problems associated with waste generation being »any substance or object which the hol der
is long: the CO2 from waste-to-energy plants, discards or intends or is required to discard« (KrWG
methane emissions and the sealing of land through §3), are not necessarily doomed as such.
landfills through to dubious business practices Maybe they simply need to change holders every
including inhumane working conditions on a global now and then. Or as they say: »One person's trash
scale. Additionally, the improper is another person's treasure«. cg

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The artist and decorator Isabel Ott got hold of as discarded. "Every product should tell a
creates trend-conscious, functional products from story," says Isabel Ott of her loving creations.
supposed rubbish – loosely based on the motto
“rubbish is a matter of opinion” – and thus not only "We're worried about disposal," the world-
draws attention to the massive waste, but also in a conscious artist points out. That is why she confronts
humorous way to the unconscious use of resources the viewer with the mass of his:her remnants of
by people. The handmade recycling products from everyday life that are otherwise no longer visible and
the World Trash Center include, for example, artistic, repressed. Having started with her art at festivals,
opulent lamps made of plastic or glasses, as well as her work has been particularly successful in party
pieces of furniture such as colorful footstools or culture: at the Fusion Festival, the artist conjured up
original sofas. several installations from 8 cubic meters of event
leftovers from the previous year. Especially old
camping chairs, tents and
The 52-year-old is now an expert in urban
recycling art. She has already accompanied several Pavilions are particularly often left behind. They
exhibitions at festivals and urban sustainability days formed the basis for a number of elaborate attractions
and finally, a year and a half ago, conquered a shop such as pavilions covered with bicycle foils, or a
space in the artist heart of Berlin, the Holzmarkt . labyrinth of plastic poles as a »Walk of Shame«, a
chic fringe shower and also the »Schredder Island« (a
Originally, the smart amalgamation of their art and plastic shredder that you can use to dispose of rubbish
the passion for the creative how began you brought with you amulets processed). Ingeniously,
used under the name Planet Trash as a garbage they also served as a store for spare parts for repairs,
collection campaign three years ago at a festival. With thus helping to strengthen the sustainability practiced
a colorful bouquet of friends, the usual festival at the festival.
performances became too boring for her and she
longed for a modern, socio-political connection. Big players are now asking for their works. For
Today, the artist is part of a collective that she hopes example, the Federal Association for Sustainability
to expand even further over the next few years. equipped its award ceremony with decorative,
recycled prizes by the artist.
She still shows her art to the world away from the four What is the secret of the garbage magic? "Humour is
workshop walls. The main artistic center, however, is important," emphasizes Isabel Ott as the basic
their very special studio in the Holzmarkt in Berlin- message of the World Trash Center. It should be
Friedrichshain: "The size of the shop is perfect and shown how much potential there is in things that are
there is a nice contrast between the World Trash perceived as rubbish. There needs to be a mixture of
Center as a gallery and the art shop." The products a change in awareness and specifications. The
on offer consist mainly of collaged, glued ones and plastic bag, for example, is a walking microplastic
oerW
C
T

newly assembled finds by the passionate collector. shaker.

ra
htlsn
red

Nothing is bought. All of the materials used in their Cornstarch is also nonsense and only promotes the
partly serial, unique products are simply found or at throwaway culture.
flea markets Isabel's sustainable works of art can now also be
viewed online at www.worldtrash
center.de can be admired. LL

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Artist Isabel Ott follows the motto »rubbish Ott says: »Every product should tell a story«.
is a matter of opinion« to create new, functional "We have concerns about waste disposal,"
products out of garbage and draw attention not only says the environmentally-conscious artist. She
to the massive amount of waste produced, but also confronts audiences with the otherwise invisible
to the subconscious, humane handling of resources remains of everyday life. At festivals, her work has
in a humorous way. The handma de recycled been particularly successful among party culture:
products include elaborately opulent lamps made at the Fusion Festival music festival, the artist
of plastic or spectacle lenses, as well as pieces of showed several installations using old camping
furniture such as footstools or witty sofas, among chairs, tents and marquees using 8 cubic meters of
other products. waste products from the previous year's event.
The 52-year-old expert of Urban Recycling Art A marquee covered with bicycle décor stickers, a
has already had several exhibitions at festivals and labyrinth of plastic tubes as a »Walk of Shame«, a
sustainability events and recently obtained a retail chic fringed shower and »Shredder Island« (a
space in the Holzmarkt in Berlin. Originally, the plastic shredder that turned trash into amulet gifts)
fusion of her art and passion for creative reuse were attractions on display at the festival.
began as a garbage exhibition called Planet Trash At the same time, they provided spare parts for
at a festival. She and her friends had grown bored repair and helped strengthen the sustainability of
of the usual festival performances and longed for a the festival as a whole.
more contemporary experience. Today, the artist Today, her work is in demand among celebrity
is part of a collective that she wants to further ties. The Federal Association for Sustainability has
expand over the next few years. She still exhibits decorated its award ceremony with recycled prizes
her art in ways that show her unconventional way she has won in the past. What is the secret of
of thinking. Her main artistic headquarters is the garbage magic? "Humour is very important," she
very special studio which she renovated herself in notes, "as a founding principle of the World Trash
the Holzmarkt in Berlin-Friedrichshain. »However, Center. It should show us how much potential
the size of the store is perfect and there is a nice there is in items that we view as trash. There
contrast between the World Trash Center as a needs to be a change of awareness, combined with
gallery and the art scene« explained the artist. The clear guidelines. The plastic bag is an exam ple of
products on offer mainly consist of the collaged, a mobile microplastic distributor. Corn starch is also
glued and recreated findings of a passionate nonsense and promotes disposable culture.«
collector. Nothing is bought. All materials of the so
metimes serial, always unique products are simply Isabel's sustainable artwork can now also be
found on the streets or at flea markets. When seen online, at her website www.worldtrashcenter.de.
describing the products made with love, Isabel LL

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1 Artist Isabel in the outdoor area of

the World Trash Center
Artist Isabel in the outdoor area of
the World Trash Center
2 View of the Spree from the entrance to the
World Trash Centers
View of the Spree from the entrance of
the World Trash Center

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1 Candlesticks created from garbage
Candle holder creations made of trash

2 assorted plastic parts

Sorted plastic pieces
3 Isabel with plastic hat
Isabel with plastic hat

4 ceiling lamp with recycled

elements
Ceiling lamp with recycled elements
5 Isabel at the World Trash Center
5-6
Isabel inside the World Trash Center

3
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1 Planet Trash entrance
Entrance to Planet Trash
2 plastic fringe shower
Plastic fringe shower
3 Detail of the tent maze
Detail of the labyrinth made
of tent parts
4 View of the Planet Trash site
View of the Planet Trash campus
5 Flag made from old coffee bags
Flag made from used coffee bags

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1 Planet Trash Parade - all costumes are 2 campfires made from tent poles 3 Dress rehearsal for the parade
made from trash and scraps of fabric Dress rehearsal for the parade
Planet Trash parade – all the costs are Campfire made of tent poles and 4 5m long cleaner crab made from leftover tents
made of trash fabric remnants
5m cleaning crab made of old tents

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4
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Plastic bags, disposable bottles, foil should initiate a rethinking on the island - away from
packaging - Echo Beach in Bali is full of things plastic towards more sustainable alternatives.
that don't belong there. Mollie Cox and her friends IF
from the Samadi Bali yoga studio work their way
patiently along the beach. In dark blue sacks, they try
to collect even the smallest piece of rubbish so that it
doesn't degrade into microplastics and later end up in Plastic bags, single-use plastic bottles, packaging
our food cycle via marine animals. They have their film - Echo Beach in Bali, on the island of
hands full with that. Thrown away is not only found Indonesia, is full of material that don't belong there.
in abundance in the inhabited areas of Bali, but above Mollie Cox and her friends at the yoga studio Samadi
all on the beach and in the sea. A lot of rubbish is Bali, patiently collect trash along the beach. They try
washed up on the beach, especially during the rainy to collect even the smallest pieces in dark blue bags,
season. before it de grades to microplastic, which otherwise
could enter the human nutrition cycle through marine
animals. They have a large task before them.
The economy of Bali is heavily dependent on
tourism. Since the days of the hippie trail in the 70's, Tons of thrown away objects are not only found near
Bali has been a popular destination for vacationers residential areas. Most of it is found at the beach and
craving picture-postcard beaches and tropical near the sea. Especially during the rainy season much
paradise. However, mass tourism is not only a source of the trash gets washed back to the beach.
of income, but also involves enormous consumption
of resources - and above all waste. Because single- Bali's economy is heavily dependent on tourism.
use plastic is cheap and is used as standard Since the days of the Hippy Trail in the 70's Bali has
packaging material in poor areas. become a popular destination for tourists who are
longing for postcard beaches and a tropical paradise.
Various groups and initiatives are trying to get Mass tourism is a source of income, but it also causes
the problem under control with regular rubbish a huge waste of resources - and most of all trash.
collection campaigns. Collection campaigns take Single-use plastic is cheap and normally used as
place several times a week, which are often joined by packaging in the poorer districts of the island.
spontaneous beach visitors. Locals are sometimes
surprised that tourists go to the trouble of picking up Different groups and initiatives meet regularly to
rubbish on their beaches and either say thank you or pick up trash in order to help solve the problem.
lend a hand. During a rubbish collection campaign, a Several times a week the rubbish collection takes
whole pick-up truck bed full of rubbish quickly place and is often spontaneously joined by beach
accumulates. This waste is then recycled, for visitors. Locals are sometimes surprised that tourists
example by the private initiative Eco Bali. aswell make the effort to collect the trash of the
beaches and react with gratitude, or join the session
right away. Large amounts of trash, enough to easily
The yoga friends notice that collecting rubbish fill a pick up truck, is collected during one session.
egtcaebllroaC
g

raises awareness for their own consumption. It After collection, the trash is recycled by private
inspires the feeling of having done something right initiatives like Eco Bali.
and at the same time having triggered a reaction from
the observers without wagging a finger. At the same
time, it is clear that far-reaching solutions are needed
to get the garbage problem in Bali under control.
Local initiatives and non-profit organizations are
already working on educational offers that

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The yoga friends of Samadi Bali see how

picking up trash leads to more conscience con
suming habits. They are empowered by the feeling
of doing something good and simultaneously
taneously trigger a reaction from observers, without
instructing manner. At the same time, it is clear that
there is a need for more extensive solutions to
solve the trash problem in Bali.
Local initiatives and non-profit organizations are
already working on educational programs to start a
rethinking approach - away from plastic, towards
sustainable alternatives. IF

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1 Volunteers collect small

pieces of plastic on the beach (p. 169)
Volunteers picking up small
plastic parts (p. 169)
2-3
2 Group picture after the trash
picking session

4
3 Volunteers Volunteers

5 Katelyn and Catherine

4
Katelyn and Catherine

4
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sustainable
construction

aftertaste
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nu
e
a
a
terms B 173
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In 1942, 4.5 million people lived in Berlin - in a city that was half can be minimized or replaced. Currently becomes a
in ruins from two world wars. Today there are 3.8 million and Most of the energy used in buildings is used for space heating.
despite countless new buildings and old buildings made livable This comes mainly from oil or gas heating, less than a third from
again, the housing shortage is a constant topic in politics and district heating, solar thermal energy or heat pumps. Incidentally,
felt at every party. I myself live in a 29 m² room, alone. In with one kilowatt hour of electrical energy, these can provide
addition, there is a third of the shared living space in my flat three times the heat energy. The electricity required for this
share as well as hallway, courtyard, etc. This means that I end could easily come from our own, decentralized power generation.
up pretty much in the German average of 46.7 m² of living space From the solar panel on the roof to
per inhabitant (2018). In 1942 a whole family must have lived in
my room and the “toilet halfway up the stairs” was enough for
two floors, which is why we used a fraction of them at the time
a small wind turbine or combined heat and power plant
everything could be realized if people in multi-family or high-rise
buildings or a com
mune would lend a hand.
average living space. In some areas this is of course still the Also read in the area of water consumption
case There is a lot of savings potential that northern and central
Europeans may find somewhat unnecessary. However, the
Nobody wants to dispute decadence of using drinking water in the garden and flushing
the toilet is something that should also be reconsidered in our
people's private or public part of the world in the future.
space. Nevertheless, this must
And who doesn't want to act with foresight when building their
be made more sustainable. own home and
prepare for the next record summer with flat roof greening and
evaporative cooling powered by process water? Is
so. However, the luxury of claiming a lot of space for oneself
has clearly increased over the decades. The associated surface If a building is no longer usable at some point, they take various
sealing is also intensified by growing industry measures to avoid ending up in the landfill. The so-called further
use is achieved through energetic use (waste-fired power plant).
and the development of transport infrastructure.
Nobody wants to dispute people's private or public space.
If building materials can be composted, recycled or even
Nevertheless, this must be made more sustainable. Here, both upcycled, this is referred to as recycling. Ideally, however,
in the new construction of single-family houses up to the high- reuse is desirable, which can be achieved using standardized
rise building as and durable building materials.
also the refurbishment of the existing building, various measures
are taken that take into account the entire life of a building. All in all, our future in the area of building lies at height, in
order to use our limited space sensibly, as well as a holistic view
For example, natural raw materials can be used in the - from construction to use to demolition. Smart decisions can
construction. The possibilities range from the well-known wood be made at any time that visibly or invisibly, indirectly or directly,
and conserve our limited resources.
Stone to cork and hemp to innovative
ven use of previous waste products such as straw, seaweed or
actual municipal waste. Even if already in the building envelope
Joint action can make corresponding measures a lot easier. cg
insulation and insulated windows have been considered, there
is still a need for resources for heating during use, which
increases again

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In 1942 Berlin, in ruins, had about 4.5 Nevertheless, an energy demand remains, which
million inhabitants. Today this number is requires resources that can still be substituted.
down to 3.8 million people and, despite the As of now, most of the energy used in buildings is
countless new and renovated buildings, the hou due to heating, with gas and oil being the most
sing shortage is a constant topic in politics and in commonly used sources. Less than a third is
every other conversation. I am currently lucky enough provided by district heating, solar thermal power or
to live in a 29m² large room by myself. heat pumps. Heat pumps, by the way, are able to
Add my share of communal space inside and outside generate up to 3 kWh of heat from 1 kWh of
the flat and I reach the average of 46.7m² living electricity. This power could easily be provided by
space per person in Germany (2018). In 1942, my one's own, decentralized, green source. Almost
room was probably occupied by a whole fa mily, everything can be put to use, from a PV module on
sharing a toilet halfway up the stairs with the roof, to a small wind turbine or co-generation
unit, if only people in a community were to support
one another.
Nobody wants to take away
Additionally, there is the potential to drastically
people's private or public reduce water consumption, which may appear
space. However, it needs pointless to Northern and Central European peans,
but is nonetheless important. Even in our latitudes,
to be created more sustainably. the decadence of watering the plants and flushing
the toilet with potable water will need to be
their neighbours, which is why the average living reconsidered in the future. And who
space was a mere fraction compared to that of today. doesn't want to act with foresight when building a
Obviously, this is still the case in some places, but house by installing flat roof greening and evaporative
in general having a large home has gone from being cooling powered by service water, in preparation for
a luxury to being taken for granted in a matter of the next record summer?
decades. The resulting sealing of land is also Once a building's deed is done, several mea
increased through growing industry and the expansion sures can be taken to avoid unnecessary landfill
of transport infrastructure. disposal. Materials can be either energetically reused
Nobody wants to take away people's private or through a waste-to-energy plant, materially reused
public space. However, it needs to be created more by composting, re- or even upcycled as well as
sustainably. This can be achieved through various directly re-used, when it comes to standardized and
measures considering the entire life of a building, durable components. Which need to become more
including newly constructed single-family houses or of a thing!
skyscrapers, as well as restoration of existing All in all, the future of housing means rising high
structures. in order to make sensible use of our limited space,
For instance, natural materials can be utilized in and going for a holistic approach re garding
the construction of a building. Most are familiar with construction, use and dismantling alike.
wood and stone, but also cork, hemp or more Clever decisions are possible for and at any point
innovative materials like straw, seaweed or actual during a building's life, which conserve resources
waste are suitable for load-bearing parts and in visibly and invisibly, directly and indirectly.
sulation respectively. Properly insulated windows Collaboration with others can facilitate all of these de
and walls can result in substantial energy savings. decisions significantly. cg

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b n Lin the
e e The tranquil community of Beet
At first glance, zendorf does not suggest that
sustainable, future-oriented community treasures
a conventional connection to the nearby village of
Klötze, a well that supplies the garden, and a service
water reservoir that is clarified by bacteria. The
such as the Sieben Linden eco-village, founded in process water is reused by the in-house plant-based
1997, are waiting for visitors. The original vision of reed-bed treatment plant, for example to water the
the eco-village or the self-proclaimed "research forest. The bathing pond with simultaneous optional
project" is to build a 300-strong settlement. With its use as a fire extinguishing pond allows ecological
current 105 adults and 40 children, it was described bathing. Your own faeces are treated cyclically and,
by the Japanese Institute for Global Environmental after seven years, are transformed into the finest
Strategies as outstandingly forward-looking and compost through composting, which can then be
egallivociS
E

pursues the common goal of exploring socially used in the neighboring forest or tree nursery. For this
acceptable sustainability spaces. purpose, only composting toilets are available on the
entire site.

The structural part of the sustainable village is

also exemplary: the walls plastered with clay are The community project offers its own forest
insulated with non-combustible and insect-proof kindergarten, a village playground and a self-
bales of straw; the south-facing residential complex supervised bicycle workshop to make the community
uses only a third of the thermal energy of a even more social and independent. In the Regiohaus,
conventional dwelling; the electricity requirement is visitors can expect the village shop, a dance bar and
covered by photovoltaic systems and recycled a jewelry workshop. Despite the cosmopolitan sense
concrete was primarily used for concrete surfaces. In of community, personal retreats are created in the
winter, the pine tree that was cut down specially from village and the required privacy is respected.
our own 70-hectare forest area, which is always
reforested with deciduous trees in accordance with
the principle of natural reciprocity, ensures cozy The House of Silence, the sacred meditation building
warmth. Innovative solar showers, composting toilets and private gardens provide the necessary peace and
and a water treatment system through reed fields quiet. Digital communication options are limited to a
optimize the ecological balance. In addition, large phone booth on the outskirts of the village, the Internet
areas of the property are left to nature for biodiversity and a few landline phones.
purposes. Nevertheless, the magical village flair attracts
numerous visitors to seminars in the Altmark - on
In this way, wet biotopes and several reed belts topics as diverse as sustainable activism in the climate
create space for protected flora and biodiverse fauna. crisis or the creative project management method
Cultivation of food takes place exclusively according called Dragon Dreaming through to practical forest
to permacultural principles. work.
The resulting food supply of the village is, to the Other sources of income are the cultivated, unpolluted
exclusion of alcohol, exclusively vegetarian and wild herbs and a mobile dance school. True to the
vegan. leitmotif of responsibility, the village is a place of
Three different water systems provide the inspiration and lasting encounters. LL
ecovillage with the basic elements of life:

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At first glance, the quiet community of Three different water systems provide the eco-
Beetzendorf does not give any clue that a village with the basis for life: a conventional
sustainable community asset, such as the eco connection to the nearby village of Kloetze, a well that
village Sieben Linden founded in 1997 is waiting for supplies the garden and a service water reservoir,
visitors here. The founding vision of the eco village which is purified by bacteria. Service water is thus
and self-described 'research project' was the recycled through the development's own reed bed
construction of an eco-friendly 300-person settlement. water treatment plant and can for example be used to
Currently housing 105 adults and 40 children, it has irrigate the woodland. The bathing pond, which can
been described by the Japanese Institute for Global also be used for ex tinguishing fires, allows for
Environmental Strategies as ex traordinarily forward- ecological bathing.
looking and following the common goals of discovering Fecal matter undergoes cyclical processing and
new forms of social sustainability. composting. After 7 years, it is degraded into the finest
compost and used in the adjacent forest or tree
The structure of the sustainable village is also nursery. Because of this, only composting toilets are
exemplary and consists of walls plastered with clay, available on the entire site.
which are insulated by non-combustible and insect- Social programs that have been established hed
proof straw bales. The south-facing housing from this joint project include a private forest
development consumes only one-third of the thermal kindergarten, a village playground and a self-service
energy of a conventional dwelling and electricity bicycle workshop, following subsistence principles.
requirements are met by solar-powered systems. Guests can visit a dance bar as well as a jewelry
The concrete surfaces are also made from recycled workshop. Despite the strong sense of community,
concrete. In the winter, warmth is provided by pine personal retreat opportunities are available in the
trees taken from the development's own 70 hectares village and privacy is respected.
of wood land, which is reforested with deciduous The House of Silence, a sacred meditation building,
trees to maintain a natural reciprocity. Innovative solar and private gardens give to those who need it a place
showers, composting toilets and a reed bed water of tranquility and peace. Outside communication is
treatment plan optimize the ecological in integrity of limited to a phone booth at the edge of the village,
the site. In addition, large areas within the property Internet and several landline phones.
are being rewilded to promote bio diversity. Wetland Nevertheless, the magical village atmosphere attracts
habitats and several reed beds provide room for numerous visitors to seminars, including Dragon
protected flora and biodiverse fauna. The cultivation Dreaming promoting sustainable activism in the
of food is based exclusively climate crisis and practical forest cooperation
workshops in the Altmark. Other sources of income
based on permaculture principles. The resulting food come from cultivating organic wild herbs and a mobile
supply for the village is entirely vegetarian and vegan, dance school. True to the leitmotif
and alcohol is not permitted. of common responsibility, the village is a place of
inspiration and sustainable events. LL

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178
Machine Translated by Google

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1 At the vegetable patch of the ecovillage

(pp. 178-179)
At the ecovillage vegetable patch (p.
178-179)
2 garden sheds Garden
shed
3 Lina and Bianca working in the fields
Lina and Bianca working in the field
4 Sebastian and Carl at the
gardening
Sebastian and Carl working in the
garden
5 When processing the compost 5-6
Working on the compost
6 TÜV-tested compost for 7
excrement
TÜV approved compost for human
waste

5
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67

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Machine Translated by Google

12

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1 Hannah and Fritz wilder at the harvest

Apricot trees by the roadside
Hannah and Fritz harvesting wild apricot
trees at the edge of the road
2 wild apricots
Wild apricots
3 Hannah on the apricot tree
Hannah at the top of the apricot tree

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Machine Translated by Google

1 processing of the harvest

Preparing the harvest
2 Hannah fills the mason jars
Hannah filling the preserving jars
3 Tatjana cutting apples
Tatyana cutting the apples
4 Karina, née Sieben Lindner
Karina, born and raised in seven
linden trees

5 forest day-care centers, also for

children from outside
Forest Kindergarten, also attended by
neighboring kids

5 185
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1 Reinhard, a veteran of the ecovillage 3-4

3 Energy-efficient houses use only 1/3
Reinhard has lived here almost of the energy in the home
since the beginning of the ecovillage compared to normal houses
2 Klaus and his colleagues during construction Energy efficient houses only use 1/3
of a new, energy-efficient house energy of regular houses
Klaus and colleagues building a new
energy efficient house

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4 187
Machine Translated by Google

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Machine Translated by Google
1 solar shower from inside
Inside of the solar shower
2 composting toilet
Compost toilet
3 composting toilet wagons
Compost toilet wagon
4 External view of the solar shower
Exterior view of the solar shower
5 Exterior view of the composting toilet
Exterior view of the compost toilet

2 189
Machine Translated by Google

1 Children mix the clay with the Kids learn about clay as building material 4 feet in buckets of clay
feet, Nicoletta helps to clean the feet Feet inside a bucket of clay
3 Nicoletta and the children at the
Kids mixing the clay with their feet, clay training
Nicoletta helping clean afterwards Nicoletta and the kids during the clay
2 children get to know clay as a building material course

190
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234

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Machine Translated by Google

It looks like a spaceship from a other Earthship projects had already failed. In autumn 2015,
sustainable future: An Earthship has landed in Tempelhof, the collaborative construction phase could finally begin, in
in the Baden-Württemberg district of Schwäbisch Hall, a self- which – as is the case with every Earthship – around 70
sufficient residential project built from recycled and natural volunteer helpers created the external structure. This was
materials. A glass front adorns the long southern side, colorful followed by the interior design, the planting and finally the
bottoms of bottles shine in the walls and most of the building inauguration of the Earthship in May 2016.
merges into the field behind it.

Since then, the Tempelhof Earthship has been an

impressive positive example of how more sustainability and
Similar to a passive house, the Earthship has circuits that diversity can be brought into German architecture despite the
are as closed as possible. The inside temperature is constant German bureaucracy. IF
pihshtraE

due to the special thermal design, pleasantly cool in summer

and heat-storing in winter. The building receives its energy
from solar panels, and fruit and vegetables grow in the
greenhouse on the south side. The rainwater is collected,
filtered and forms the basis for the Earthship's own water cycle. It looks like a spaceship from a sustainable future:
in Tempelhof, in the Baden Württemberg district of
Schwäbisch-Hall, an Earthship has landed. The self-
sufficient resilient project is built from recycled and natural
The Earthship is the supply building for the house materials. A glass front graces the southern side of the
complex and the central meeting place: this is where people construction, walls using colorful bottle bases are found inside
cook, sit together, shower and play. There are 14 individual and a large segment of the building merges into the field behind.
parking spaces in the immediate vicinity of the earth ship.
There the residents have their own retreat and sleeping place
in yurts or construction trailers. 25 people live on the premises: Similar to a passive house, the Earthship has preferably
old and young, singles and families. They see the Earthship closed circuits. Due to the thermal construction the temperature
as an intercultural community project. It is their ecological oasis inside remains constant, pleasant cool in summer and
of life and at the same time a practical place of learning for the accumulating heat in the winter. The building receives power
alternative building community. There is a public tour about from solar panels and inside the glasshouse se on the south-
once a month, and workshops are also offered. facing front, fruit and vegetables grow. Rainwater is collected
and filtered, providing the foundation for its own water cycle.

The Earthship functions as the service buil ding of the

The Earthship is a pilot project in Germany: Built based community and as the central meeting point: it is the place
on an original design by the American Michael Reynolds, it where the community cook and eat together, shower or play.
realizes his vision of a house »that heats itself, supplies its Located in the immediate vicinity of the Earthship are 14
water, produces food«. The Tempelhof Earthship is a European individual apartments. The residents have their own retreats in
prototype whose construction plans are adapted to the local the form of a traditional yurt and construction trailers. 25 people
climate. Thousands of other Earthships have already been live here: old and young, singles and families. They see the
built around the world, for example in the Netherlands or India. earths hip as intercultural community project, as an eco logical
Reynolds explains the uniqueness of the Earthship as follows: oasis of life and at the same time a place to learn in practice
"It can be built anywhere and by anyone, from things that our about alternative house buil ding. Once a month a public tour
society throws away." takes place and workshops are offered.

It was a challenge for the Tempelhof project to obtain The Earthship is the first of its kind in Germany and is
the building permit required in Germany based on an original concept by the
US architect Michael Reynolds and his vision of a

192
Machine Translated by Google

house, "which heats itself, delivers its own water, Earthship projects to fail. In autumn 2015, the col
produces food." The Earthship of Tempelhof is a laborative construction phase was finally able to
European prototype, with the design adjusted to begin. About 70 volunteers which, by the way, is
the climate of the area. Thousands of other common for an Earthship project, constructed the
Earthships have already been built around the exterior of the building. The subsequent interior
globe, for example in the Netherlands and in India. work came next, followed by the planting and finally
Reynolds explains the special features of the the opening party in May 2016.
Earthship as being able to »...be built everywhere Since then, the Tempelhof Earthship is an
and by everybody, out of things that our society impressive and positive example of how, despite
throws away.« German bureaucracy, more sustainability and
It was a challenge for the project in Tempelhof diversity can be introduced to the field of German
to get the permission required in Germany. architecture. IF
This daunting process has already caused other

193
Machine Translated by Google

194
Machine Translated by Google
1 living room overlooking the
Greenhouse Front (p. 193)
Living room with a view towards the greenhouse
front (p. 193)
2 Passage with recycled bottle bases
Passage with
recycled bottle bases
3 shared bathrooms
Communal bathroom

4 South-facing glass frontage with solar panels

Glass front facing the south with solar

panels on top

5 Community private living quarters

Private living spaces of the community
6 glass front with integrated
Glasshouse
Glass front with integrated
greenhouse 4

3
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1 Play of light in the living room

Light rays in the living room
2 open kitchen in the living room
Open kitchen inside the living room
3 Unplastered piece of wall shows inner
workings
Unrendered piece of the wall shows
structure
4 Detailed view of the kitchen
Detail of the kitchen

3
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197
Machine Translated by Google

ocs
eglaniach

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Machine Translated by Google

egnahc

Sociale
right

199
Machine Translated by Google

The climate crisis is the result of an economic This change begins in the relationships with
system based on the exploitation of people and our fellow human beings. For that we have to
nature. The compulsion to constant growth means reflect on values such as mutual help, solidarity,
that more and more goods are being produced, for self-organization and orientation towards the
which more and more resources have to be mined, common good. Together in a neighborhood
for which more and more nature is being destroyed initiative, in a club, or in a community garden,
and greenhouse gases are being released. one's own environment can be effectively and
Simultaneously sustainably designed. Working together to save
food from being thrown away and use it to cook for
This change begins in the neighborhood not only saves a lot of resources,
but also makes for lots of smiling faces and new
the relationships acquaintances.
with our fellow human beings. Joint tree planting and rubbish collection campaigns
are not only good for nature, but also for your own
well-being. We can start on a small scale with what
the drive for maximum profits means that very few
is necessary on a large scale.
people benefit from this growth. Wealth has never
been so unequally distributed in the world as it is
Working together instead of against each other is
today.
not only more relaxed and much more fun, but
It is often said that the reason lies in human
often also delivers better results. If you consume
nature itself. We are egotistical, greedy and
less, you need less money, for which you in turn
excessive from birth - sustainable living and acting
need less
is simply not our own. The personal maximization
of utility is therefore the driving force of all human
activity. Working together instead
This perspective reduces the whole variety of of against each other is
human interaction to a simple market logic. We
can already observe in our everyday life that this is not only more relaxed and
not the case: when we help our friends to move, much more fun, but often
explain the way to a stranger or do voluntary work.
With all things that we do not for profit, but because also delivers better
we believe that they are right. results.
Must work. This time we can turn
Nevertheless, the consequences of capitalist
invest in the quality of social relationships.
ideology are clearly noticeable in our society:
Mutual help ensures that you are not alone, even
increasing pressure to perform and compete, in difficult times.
fixation on material prosperity and consumption,
Like other crises, the climate crisis above all
isolation, selfishness and social indifference.
requires cooperation in order to overcome it.
Individual consumer decisions and technical
Competitive thinking and egotism are out of place
solutions are not enough for a sustainable
for this. JW
community in which nature and people can coexist
with respect.
We need profound social change to achieve a
climate-friendly world.

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The climate crisis is the result of an isolation, spreading selfishness and social
economic system that is based on the indifference. In order to achieve a sustainable communi
exploitation of human beings and nature. ty where nature and human can respectfully
The necessity for constant growth results in the coexist, individual lifestyle choices and technical
production of more and more goods that require solutions will not suffice in making a difference.
the extraction of more and more resources. This Instead, we need deep-seated social change.
causes the ongoing destruction of nature and the This change starts with our relationship to
wards our fellow human beings. We have to
This change starts with our refocus on values like mutual aid, solidarity, self-
organization and generally orientate ourselves
relationship towards our more towards the common good rather than profit.
fellow human beings. The easiest way to achieve this is through
community: in a neighborhood initiative, in a social
club or collective. It might be small things like
emissions of greenhouse gases. At the same time,
preventing food being thrown away and preparing
the goal of achieving maximum profits leads to the
communal meals for the neighborhood. This not
paradox that only a select few profit from this
only saves resources, but also connects people
growth. At no point in history has wealth been as
and makes them happy. Planting trees or picking
unevenly distributed as it is today.
It is said that the root cause lies in the nature up trash are not only good for the environment, but
also for our social life and our own well-being. On
of humankind itself. From the time a person enters
a small scale, we start the change that is necessary
this world, they are selfish, greedy and im
on a larger scale.
moderate. If we believe the economic pundits, a
sustainable way of life completely contradicts the
nature of humankind. Ultimately, its the acceleration
Working together instead of
of one's personal profit that motivates all of our working against each other
actions.
The dominant capitalist world view reduces the
is not only more fun, it also
entire range of social interaction down to a simple
delivers better results.
market logic. The crookedness of this logic can
already be observed in our everyday lives: when Working together instead of working against each
we help a friend move house, when we show a other is not only more fun, it also delivers better
stranger the way or when we volunteer in our results. Consuming less requires less money, which
neighborhood. These are all things we do because in turn requires less work. This time we can reinvest
we think it is right, not for personal profit. in our social relationships. Mutual aid creates an
Nevertheless, the capitalist ideology strongly assurance that we will not find our selves alone in
affects our society and can be felt everywhere: difficult times.
increasing pressure to perform, increasing Like other crises, the climate crisis requires
competitivity, increasing fixation on material we cooperation to overcome it – competition and sel
old and consumption of goods, individualization, fishness are simply unfit to provide solutions. JW

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i.ee nyour educationCulture

right

m A small desk in the midst of the lush A small desk among lush green papa
green papayas stages the nature-centered yas typifies the nature-centred approach
education in the tropical fruit garden of the eco- to education found in the tropical orchard
village of Batoro on Tenerife. In April 2017, the of the Batoro eco-village on Tenerife. In April
piece of land began to be enlivened by 20 2017, 20 volunteers from 17 different countries
volunteers from up to 17 different countries. It is started working together to regenerate this piece of
located 15 minutes from the Atlantic Ocean and is land only 15 minutes from the Atlantic Ocean.
10,000 m2. For the sustainable Back to the Roots Charly, the founder of the project, wanted to
project, yurts were also used to implement make his ambitious dream come true: giving people
meditation courses as part of the alternative from different cultures back the gifts that he was
learning center. able to experience on his journey through Europe.
Charly, the founder of the project, wanted to On his tour through different ecovillages, he learned
make his big dream come true and let people from the importance of social cohesion for functional
different cultures share his wealth of experience. ecovillages. To achieve this, the routines of living
He collected this on years of traveling through together are clearly structured: work starts in the
orotaB
–

Europe. On his tour of the ecovillage scene, he morning and lasts until 3:00 pm after which there is
realized that securing the cohesion and succession time for individual hobbies, practicing self-
of ecovillages is the most important thing for him. awareness or gardening. In addition yurts for
The sequence of life together in his eco-village is meditation courses were installed. One key element
clearly regulated: people work from morning to of Batoro's success is an initial self discovery
afternoon, after which there is time for individual training camp, where people get used to typical
hobbies, exploration tours or gardening. community tasks. In the second phase, new
participants can take the lead among residents in
relation to their chosen fields of interest, shaping
The work focuses on an initial training camp for the social environment of the entire eco village.
self-discovery. In the second step, participants can
then become leading residents of their chosen As a place created in nature, Batoro offers
fields of interest (such as permaculture, singing or visitors a therapeutic space of calm, pure self-
community research) and help shape the socially healing and balance. To enable more access to
tolerant credo of the learning location. urban sub-cultures, the project is now looking for
more people specialized in ecoliving to transmit
A place in nature was created for this purpose, this alternative and nature-driven culture to the city. LL
which offers pilgrims a therapeutic mirror of calm,
self-healing and balance through joint work. This
is intended to create a new social basis as a warm,
intuitive antithesis to learning that is alien and
characterized by pressure to perform in the
conventional, Western-style school system. The
project is constantly looking for people from
different disciplines who can develop further warm-
hearted and practical ideas. LL

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Volunteers try their balance in the

group
Volunteers test their balance
in the group

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1 Vittoria, Simun and Kuru in front of

their yurt
Vittoria, Simun and Kuru in front
of their yurt
2 Stina and Ilona working in the garden
Stina and Ilona working in the garden
3 Vittoria and Kuru
Vittoria and Kuru

4 Cindy at the papayas

Cindy sitting by the papayas

3
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1 Project coordinator Tracey in

front of the papaya
Project manager Tracey in
front of the papaya
2 Aurelien serves the food
Aurelien serving food
3 Homemade Sushi
Home made sushi
4 Hannes massages Ilona after work

Hannes giving a massage

after work to Ilona
5 Charly, founder of the project
Charlie, the project's founder
6 Simun and Youyou during
construction work
Simun and Youyou doing
construction work

56

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1 Cindy and Hannes

Cindy and Hannes
2 Youyou sews a mattress
You you sew a mattress
3 Gergely explains his homemade
tank drum to Maria
Gergely showing his homemade
tank drum to Maria
4 Mel finish marks through the
focal point of a glass ball
Mel using a glass ball to make marks

3
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team 211
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Ina Friebe Clara Grunwald

ÿ Bachelor's degree in European Studies ÿ Master of Science degree »Industrial Engineer

ÿ Ina is active in the climate justice movement Energy and Environmental Resources«
ÿ Clara is a volunteer at »Engineers Without Borders«
ÿ Ina also works as a freelancer
editor ÿ She also wants to bring more sustainability to the
club and festival scene
»The topic of sustainability
finally needs the attention »Anyone who knows me
it deserves. Tina's great knows that I like to optimize
photos contribute to this. It things – including how we
treat nature.«
was my pleasure to support
the book project. We need
a social rethink now!«

ÿ BA in European Studies ÿ MSc in Economic Engineering/ in Energy and

ÿ Ina is an active member of the climate Resources
movement ÿ Clara is a volunteer with Engineers with out Borders
ÿ and also works as a freelance editor
ÿ She also promotes greater sustainability
»The topic of sustainability needs to be given the in the club and festival scene
attention it deserves. Tina's pho tos contribute to this.
It was a pleasure to support this book project. We »Anyone who knows me knows that I love to optimize
need to think differently as a society, right now!« things – including our relation ship with nature.«

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Linda Loreen Loose Jonas Wahmkov

ÿ Completion of the master’s degree in sustainable ÿ studies European ethnology and works as a
business at the University for Sustainable freelance journalist
Development ÿ he is also trying to find out how to overcome
ÿ Today, Linda works as a research assistant in capitalism ÿ Jonas is interested in
the field of regional awareness work and social movements and volunteers in development
participation research policy
ÿ Linda also works as a moderator at Mybetter.World area active
as a synergetic consultant for holistic socio-vision
projects and is a voluntary copywriter for Evolve
Magazine
»There is no reason why we
cannot already live in an
»The world needs creative ecological and socially just
horizons for a future worth society.
living in. That's why I poured This realization is the first
my love of texts into Solutions.« step in the right direction.«

ÿ MSc in sustainable economics at the ÿ studies European ethnology and works as

University for Sustainable Development a freelence journalist
ÿ Linda works in community awareness ÿ he is also exploring how to overcome
raising and participation research capitalism
ÿ She also works as a moderator at My ÿ Jonas is interested in social movements
better.World, as a synergetic consultant to and works as a volunteer in the field of
socio-visionary projects and as a volun development policy
teer writing for Evolve Magazine
»There is no reason for us not to already
»The world needs new perspectives for be living in a socially just and
environmentally tally sustainable society
designing a liveable tomorrow. That is why
today. Realizing this is the first step in the right direction.«
I focus my love of writing on articles about
sustainable solutions.«

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Tina Eichner Judith Weber

ÿ After training as a photographer, she began her own ÿ Degree in Education and Sinology
business with a focus on documentary photography ÿ Judith is now studying visual communication at the
Weißensee Academy of Art in Berlin
ÿ Tina is involved in various climate justice and human ÿ Their aim is to combine social issues, ecology and
rights movements design
ÿ In addition to her voluntary work for Solutions, she
works as a photojournalist and portrait photographer
»I want to think of
design in connection with
»Photography can do more social and ecological
than just produce beautiful processes. For me,
images, it can transport designing the book meant
messages and change the way working with joy and added
we see the world. value.«
With this powerful medium, I
want to show that an
ecological and just world is
possible.«

ÿ After her photography training, Tina ÿ Degrees in education and sinology

started to work as a freelancer, focusing on ÿ Judith is studying visual communication
documentary photography at the University of Arts Weißensee Berlin
ÿ Tina is involved in various climate justice ÿ her goal is to connect social and
and human rights movements ecological topics with design
ÿ alongside voluntary work on solutions,
she works as a photojournalist and portrait »I want to think about design together with
photographer society and ecology. Working on this book
meant joy and added value for me.«
»Photography can do more than produce
beautiful pictures. It can transmit me sages
and change the way we understand the
world. With this powerful medium I want to
show that a sustainable and just world is
possible.«

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1 Ina in the urban garden in Berlin (p. 210)

Ina at an urban garden in Berlin (p. 210)
2 Clara at the water demo of
Extinction Rebellion in Berlin (p. 210)
Clara at the water demonstration in
Berlin (p. 210)
3 Linda on the city campus of the
Eberswalde University for
Sustainable Development (p. 211)
Linda on the city campus of the
University for sustainable
development Eberswalde (p. 211)
4 Jonas in front of the offshore wind farm in
Copenhagen (p. 211)
Jonas in front of an offshore
wind farm (p. 211)
5 Tina in the Brandenburg desert
Tina in the desert of Brandenburg
Copyright by Jonas Wahmkow
6 Judith in Berlin Central Station
Judith at the central station of Berlin

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Kind regards
Support of

Dominic Baldzikowski, Frank Michael, Hannes Wahmkow, Rian Heller,

Klaus Drzimotta, Gabriele Schelte, Schrottpourri crew (Petzke,
Charly, Anja, André, Gian-Luca, Annalena), Mario Marugg, Tobias
Molter, Josef Ritterbach, and Jork Tiedemann

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The climate crisis has us firmly in its grip. It affects us all and has

already having an impact on our society. But we can do something about it!

Solutions is a photo project that creates positive utopias by showing concrete solutions
to the climate crisis.
To this end, the documentary photographer Tina Eichner traveled with her camera to
various projects in Germany and around the world and documented different ways
in which something is already being done to combat the climate crisis

can be. The Balinese family business Putu's Bam

boo Straws, for example, produces sustainable straws made of bamboo, the artist
Isabell Ott from Berlin makes art

Garbage, the Sanne family are building a balcony solar system instead of a sun
awning, and a holistically sustainable way of life is being striven for in the eco-village of
Sieben Linden.

The presented sustainable action and design game

spaces encompass different areas of our society

such as mobility, renewable energy, protest movements, the circular economy, education,
sustainable building, biodiversity, consumption and social change. They provide
positive impetus and incentives to break out of previous routines and actively help
shape the change to a green future.

The richly illustrated volume is bilingual in German and English. With his
impressive photos, he shows that a lot is possible - and everything is possible.

9 783962 383138