Housing Forms
In the context of a (desired) diversity of housing cultures, to match the city’s diversifying populations and lifestyles, we wish to discuss problems associated with increasing real estate values and rents as well as disappearing vacant and open space in the city. Are alternative and sustainable as well as non-speculative housing models being supported or frustrated? In times of non-growth economies and reduced governmental spending, is a democratic and creative, sustainable urban development being encouraged? Self-organized housing, as a key element of a sustainable Berlin, can contribute to the city with among other things:
- sustainable and experimental demonstration projects
- participatory, neighborhood-oriented organisational structures
- pioneering examples of environmental technologies and energy efficiency
- comfortable and safe cooperative housing where old and young can affordably live together (intergenerational)
Read and comment >>
Culture
Is the cultural diversity of the city at risk or is this being strengthened? Are local cultures being promoted? Are relationships being recognized between cultural and urban development? Are neighborhood cultures finding support or is a mainstream, commercial and globalized culture dominating? Are creative, open and affordable spaces necessary for emerging and regional cultures disappearing?
Read and comment >>
Biodiversity
How many plant and animal types and species are found in Berlin? Is biodiversity in the city increasing or decreasing? How is cultural diversity related to biodiversity? The future city offers complex and diverse habitats for biologically and culturally diverse flora and fauna!
Read and comment >>
Renewable Energy
Is Berlin’s variety of alternative and renewable energy production (mini-generators, solar panels, wind turbines, etc.) increasing? Are social and ecological approaches to energy conservation being encouraged? Berlin’s future residents will be first of all energy producers and secondly energy consumers, in a radically decentralized energy market!
Read and comment >>
Nutrition
What sustainable food options exist in the city? What are the advantages of regional and seasonal food production, and the production of food in urban areas (urban farms)?
What is the range of approaches available regarding nutrition (aesthetic experiences, increased quality of life through healthy, organically produced and vegan food, as well as slow food, etc.). All people in the city should have the opportunity to grow some of their own food!
