Around 25 interested parties accepted the invitation from the Institute for Science Dialogue to Café Vielfalt to discuss sustainable development and develop concrete ideas for the region. The event began with a keynote speech by sustainability manager Christian Einsiedel from TH OWL on the concept of sustainable development, which encompasses not only environmental and climate protection, but also social and economic issues.
“It's about finding a new balance, both for future generations and for everyone who is already living in the world today,” explained Einsiedel. This is precisely what the United Nations' 17 global sustainability goals are all about, which are more than just an abstract concept: “They provide a concrete framework for action – including for cities like Lemgo and for us as a university – to take responsibility at the local level.”
In another keynote speech, Ronja Post explained the sustainability strategy of the city of Lemgo. She presented measures that have already been implemented and future goals, emphasizing the importance of cooperation between the university and the city: “Sustainability is a joint project. It's about connecting stakeholders, sharing responsibility, and developing solutions together.”
Following the keynote speeches, guests had the opportunity to actively participate: In a short workshop, they worked in small groups on three selected UN goals, exchanged perspectives, and developed initial ideas for local implementation.
A special moment arose when a woman from the audience spoke up: “Only together are we strong,” she said, aptly summing up the spirit of the evening. The event impressively demonstrated how dialogue between science, government, and civil society can succeed—and how much potential there is in cooperation for a sustainable future.
Outlook: The next Monday series will take place on June 16 at “anno 1578” at Lemgoer Mittelstraße 70.