It's not enough to just talk about climate protection - we have to act together. This was the motto of the Climate-Join-in-Day 2024 in Erlangen. For the fourth time the day, which was opened by Sabine Bock, the Officer for Environment and Climate Protection of the City of Erlangen, brought together committed citizens to develop and implement climate protection projects together. The event began in the FAU's Kollegienhaus, where motivated people came together to work on concrete projects for a sustainable future. Many ideas came together, because every contribution counts - from initial suggestions to concrete action plans, everything was included. Only through the creative and diverse approaches of the participants is it possible to explore new projects for climate protection in Erlangen. The day was accompanied by clear enthusiasm and inspiration.

Your city becomes climate neutral - the projects 

However, the Climate-Join-in Day not only brought new inspiration, but also tangible results. For example, educational institutions are to offer more climate education in the future in order to raise awareness of the topic among pupils. But the gastronomy sector is also to be addressed. Restaurants, cafés, etc. The aim is to show restaurants, cafés, etc. how to reduce food waste.

Here is a brief overview of all the projects developed:

🗨️ Guidelines for climate communication

How do you talk effectively about climate protection? This project is developing a conversation guide that can be used for Instagram posts and other training courses. Become part of it and create new communication channels.

To the idea: Guide for climate communication

💃 Party for Future in Erlangen

Party for the future. Climate protection with festival flair. The aim is to combine sustainable activities with a good atmosphere: workshops, clothes swap parties and information stands are just the beginning. The aim is to create structures that will last even after the party. 

To the idea: Party for Future in Erlangen

🥗 Making Too Good to Go better known

Food waste is a major issue when it comes to climate protection. For this reason, the city of Erlangen needs to be more present on the food rescue app “Too Good to Go”. This project aims to approach various businesses in the catering sector and show them ways to reduce food waste. 

To the idea: Making Too Good to Go better known

🎲 Escape game to save energy

Do you love puzzles and are creative? Then the Green Office project is just the thing for you! They want to develop an escape game about saving energy at the university. Help make Erlangen a puzzle city! 

To the idea: Escape game about saving energy

🚲 Experience day in Erlangen

Imagine a car-free Sunday on which the city center belongs to pedestrians and cyclists, stores are open and public transport can be used free of charge. Sounds almost too good to be true? With your help, this project could soon become a reality! 

To the idea: Experience day in Erlangen

🌳 Opening the “climate forests” to the public

Sparkasse Erlangen has planted forests - now they are to be made accessible to the public. A project that aims to show how climate and nature conservation can be brought to life.

To the idea: Opening the “climate forests" to the public

📖 Promoting climate education in schools

The goal: free access to teaching materials on climate protection in schools. For this purpose, a collection of resources is to be created in order to realize simplified climate education.

To the idea: Promoting climate education in schools

☀️ Solar obligation in Erlangen

Compulsory photovoltaics in Erlangen - to what extent conceivable and enforceable? This project aims to find ways to kick-start the local energy transition. Your expertise and ideas can make a difference!

To the idea: Solar obligation in Erlangen

🔌 Balcony power plants in student residences

Balcony solar systems for free at the Studierendenwerke, please! Are you a student or live in a hall of residence? Then get involved and support renewable energies!

To the idea: Balcony power plants in halls of residence

🌏 Anchoring the Public Climate School at FAU

The Public Climate School brings climate education to schools and universities. This project is committed to establishing this important week of action at FAU. Join in and raise awareness of the climate crisis!

To the idea: Anchoring the Public Climate School at FAU

Why we need more days like this

“The Climate Join-in Day was the decisive impetus for me to take an active stand for climate protection. Not only did I develop a concrete project there, but I also found a committed group. Together we can create change!” -Eileen Dierner, participant in Climate-Join-in Day 2024

Erlangen shows that change is possible locally. The projects and ideas are not only valuable for the region, but can also have an impact in other cities. The Climate Join-in Day has created a space where we can all come together, network and get started right away.

The great thing about it is that anyone can join in! You don't have to be an expert, you don't have to belong to an association. The only thing that matters is your willingness to be part of the solution.

And what happens next? Get active yourself! 🌍

The next events have already been scheduled and everyone is welcome to get involved. 

If you have your own ideas for projects or questions about the platform, our climate networker and local contact for your ClimateHub in Erlangen, Sophia Thomas, will be happy to help you. Simply send an email to: erlangen@climateconnect.earth 

You can find more projects and how you can get involved on the ClimateHub Erlangen website.

Or take a look at our Instagram channel: @climatehub_erlangen

Together we are shaping Erlangen's climate-friendly future - join us and get involved! 💪

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