The opening remarks were given by Prof. Dr. Verena Blechinger-Talcott (First Vice President of Freie Universität Berlin). Following an introduction to the program, Isabella Pfusterer (Jury Member) introduced the individuals behind the five projects. Each had 5 minutes to present the goals of their idea and their preliminary results, inviting participation. The audience then provided FeedForward.

A quiz with an audience prize encouraged guests to engage in conversation with each other.

During the Crowdtiming session, seven sustainability-oriented initiatives from our university presented their work in the form of elevator pitches. These were:

• Sustainability teams
• GreenBibs
• UniGardening
• FU Rad
• SUSTAIN IT!
• Klimawald
• Blühender Campus

Prof. Stephan Heinzel (Jury Member and FUturist 2021/22) sent a video message from the Technical University of Dortmund.

Dr. Sophie Lokatis (Ecologist at the German Wildlife Foundation & Guest Researcher in the Ecological Novelty Research Group at Freie Universität Berlin) provided input on the nature-positive approach and the connection between biodiversity and climate protection.

At the end, there was a preview from our department and the new Idea competition for Freie Universität students was launched. Simon Jochim (Entrepreneurship Education Programme) presented the prize, the Masterclass of the Entrepreneurship Foundation, and invited attendees to the Summit in October.

Following this, all participants could continue exchanging ideas over music and snacks.

53 people attended the event. Their feedback...

What worked well?

• "Presentations by project groups, the pitching"
• "Genuine interest from organizers, engagement of students and staff"
• "Varied and entertaining event"
• "Great methods and pleasant atmosphere"
• "Open exchange at the buffet with activities in front of the canteen building"
• "Opportunity to contribute own ideas"
• "Quiz for relaxation"

What should be added or improved next time?

• "Participation from university leadership"
• "Breaks or shorter event duration"
• "Better handling of technology, especially microphones"

The total cost was approximately €1800. Of this, approximately 56% went to the production of videos and photos, about 25% to food, about 4% to drinks, and about 15% to materials (gift baskets, Magic Cards). Drinks were sourced from fair, ecological, and socially responsible, and partly regional suppliers. The food was vegan and vegetarian and partly sourced locally.

The event was part of the Sustainability Days - Making the Future Yourself by SUSTAIN IT!.

We thank everyone for their participation.