Öko-Institut e.V.: A common task - Getting involved in socio-ecological transformation

Editorial

[Translate to Englisch:] Jan Peter Schemmel, Sprecher der Geschäftsführung des Öko-Instituts

Research has a lot to offer

Editorial by Jan Peter Schemmel, CEO, Oeko-Institut

Transformation means far-reaching change. Not change that simply happens, but change that we shape. Likewise, changing our habits falls into this category. Consciously going without something is another way to promote change, although many people are loathe to go without. But the question is, would it really be so terrible? Anyone can simply try this out, and more besides, by taking part in a project for socio-ecological transformation. Replace the car with a cargo bike for a while. Try…

Research has a lot to offer

In Focus

Common problems, common solutions

Formats for socio-ecological transformation

Whether to get involved in socio-ecological transformation is not a question but a given in the field of transdisciplinary sustainability research. It is an indispensable part of the research process, because from the very outset, the approach incorporates different perspectives: the municipal administration, the business community, experts from various disciplines, citizens and civil society organisations. And to do so, it employs a variety of formats – which are also used at the…

Common problems, common solutions

Futures tested

Living labs for sustainable transformation

Sharing a car with the neighbours – sounds perfect in theory. Not so many vehicles have to be purchased. It frees up a lot of space. And it brings us into closer contact with many people in our neighbourhood. In practice, however, how can people be persuaded to forego a car of their own or to share it with their neighbour? And what effects would that actually have on the environment, the climate and society? To answer these questions, living labs combine theory with practice: they…

Futures tested

“We must try new approaches”

Interview with Martin Hahn (Municipal building authority, Wittenberge)

One municipality between Hamburg and Berlin has long established citizen involvement as part of local politics: for many years, Wittenberge has been committed to integrating a range of perspectives into urban development. How can different actors be inspired to get involved? What are the challenges around participation? These questions are answered by Martin Hahn, head of the building authority in the small town of Wittenberge in north-west Brandenburg. He also reports on initial…

“We must try new approaches”