What do the algae in Müggelsee and the axolotl in the laboratory have to do with coexistence in Berlin?
We would like to discuss these (and other) questions with you at the start of our event series “Water Knowledge | Parcours”, an interdisciplinary exchange of knowledge between science and society, on December 6, 2024. The explorations of the Berlin hydrosphere start in the Berlin Museum of Decorative Arts and the exhibition there “Lygophilia: Aquatic Life” by Robertina Šebjanič. This is inspired by the endangered axolotl and other aquatic creatures and explores the theme of more-than-human coexistence in water.
Together with the Prussian Cultural Heritage Foundation (SPK), we invite you to spend an evening exploring diverse perspectives from science, art and urban society on coexistence in the blue-green Berlin urban space.
We look forward to contributions from the artists Cammack Lindsey and Sarah Hermanutz, the scientist Dr. India Mansour and the curator Dr. Claudia Banz and Christian de Lutz on the importance of water ecosystems in Berlin, the challenges of the urban hydrosphere and the protection of endangered species.
Course of the evening
5:00 p.m
Arrive at the exhibition with a welcome drink
5:20 p.m
Welcome and introduction
5:30 p.m
Klangperformance von Cammack Lindsey
5:50 p.m
Presentation of the WasserWissen project and the TD Lab
6:00 p.m
Introduction to the exhibition by Dr. Claudia Banz
6:15 p.m
Discussion with Dr. India Mansour, Sarah Hermanutz and Christian de Lutz moderated by Sina Ribak
7:15 p.m
End with drinks and conversation
8:30 p.m
End of the event
We invite all participants to drinks and finger food at the end!
Participation free of charge.
Registration required here
background
The Water Knowledge | Parcours forms together with WasserWissen | The TD Lab’s dialogue series and the exhibition on water research in Berlin opening in the Humboldt Laboratory in October 2025 are a new focus topic for the Berlin University Alliance (BUA). The series ‘Water Knowledge in Berlin’ promotes a dynamic, multidirectional exchange of knowledge about Berlin’s blue-green infrastructure and brings together researchers from all four universities with Berliners, communities and experts for joint research and learning.
The Water Knowledge | Parcours promotes local and global knowledge about water in a variety of exchange formats and interactive events – at cultural locations and along Berlin’s waterways. In line with the Berlin University Alliance (BUA)’s commitment to socially relevant research, WasserWissen aims to share and jointly develop knowledge about the role of water with urban society. The aim is to address central questions about the sustainable future of the city and the essential function of its urban hydrosphere.
Here are two PAA-related questions for the provided text:
## World Today News Interview: Coexistence in Berlin’s Watery Spaces
**Introduction:**
Welcome to World Today News. Today we’re delving into the fascinating world of Berlin’s water ecosystems and exploring the concept of “coexistence” with its diverse inhabitants. We’re joined by two esteemed guests: **[Guest 1 Name]** , a renowned aquatic biologist, and **[Guest 2 Name]** , an urban planner specializing in sustainable city development.
**Section 1: Setting the Stage – Berlin’s Blue-Green Heart**
* **Interviewer:** Berlin is known for its historic canals, rivers, and lakes. But it’s also facing challenges related to urbanization and climate change. **Guest 1**, from your perspective as an aquatic biologist, what makes Berlin’s water ecosystems unique, and what are some of the key pressures they face?
* **Interviewer:** **Guest 2**, how does urban planning factor into these issues? What are some of the innovative approaches being utilized in Berlin to balance development with the health of its aquatic environment?
**Section 2: From Algae Blooms to Endangered Species – A Case Study Approach**
* **Interviewer:** The article mentions the Müggelsee algae bloom and the endangered axolotl. **Guest 1**, can you explain the significance of these specific examples in understanding the broader challenges facing Berlin’s water ecosystems? What lessons can we learn from these cases?
* **Interviewer:** **Guest 2**, how can urban planning strategies contribute to mitigating such issues? Are there specific projects or initiatives in Berlin aimed at addressing these challenges and protecting endangered species?
**Section 3: ‘Water Knowledge | Parcours’ – Fostering Conversation and Collaboration**
* **Interviewer:** The article highlights the “Water Knowledge | Parcours” event series. **Guest 1**, what do you hope participants will gain from these events? How can science and art contribute to a deeper understanding of these complex issues?
* **Interviewer:** **Guest 2**, how does this initiative fit into the broader goals of sustainable development in Berlin? What are the long-term implications of fostering dialog and collaboration around water issues?
**Section 4: Looking Ahead – Coexistence and the Future of Berlin’s Waters**
* **Interviewer:** What are some of the biggest questions that still need to be addressed regarding coexistence with Berlin’s aquatic life?
* **Interviewer:** Looking ahead, what gives you hope for the future of Berlin’s waters and the communities that depend on them?
**Conclusion:**
Thank you, [Guest 1] and [Guest 2], for sharing your invaluable insights. We encourage our viewers to learn more about the “Water Knowledge | Parcours” and engage in the important conversations surrounding our shared responsibility for the health of Berlin’s blue-green spaces.
**Call to action:**
For those interested in learning more and getting involved, visit [Website address for event registration and further information]
