new European Bauhaus Ignites Innovation Across Europe: Winners Announced
Table of Contents
- new European Bauhaus Ignites Innovation Across Europe: Winners Announced
- Innovative Projects Take Center Stage at Ignite NEB Events
- Innovation Takes Center Stage at Nicosia Hackathon: Winners Highlight Community-Driven Solutions
- Grow NEB Program Empowers Local Communities with Sustainability and Inclusivity
December 11, 2024 – Since its inception in 2021, the New European Bauhaus (NEB) initiative has been a beacon for envisioning a sustainable, inclusive, and stunning future for Europe. Through its Ignite NEB program, the initiative has partnered with organizations like EIT Food, EIT Manufacturing, and EIT Urban Mobility to foster local innovation and community engagement. This year’s Ignite NEB events, held in Rotterdam, Arquino, Donostia-San Sebastián, and Nicosia, have culminated in the selection of groundbreaking projects that address pressing environmental and social challenges.
Rotterdam: A circular Revolution in Agriculture
The Rotterdam event, hosted at BlueCity—a former swimming pool repurposed into a hub for circular innovation—focused on the theme of crops and fibers. The challenge aimed to address the urgent need for sustainable agricultural practices in the face of nitrogen and climate crises. Participants where tasked with creating viable buisness cases for biobased materials and products, which are essential for transitioning farmers to fiber cultivation.
Over six weeks, 20 young professionals explored regenerative agriculture and biobased materials, developing prototypes for four local crops: bog myrtle, willow, miscanthus, and sweet chestnut. Guided by experts,the teams addressed critical issues such as soil degradation,biodiversity loss,and unsustainable farming practices.
Winning Project: Team Bog Myrtle took home the Business Award for their innovative product, Bog Off. This natural, biobased insect-repellent stick is packaged sustainably using bog myrtle itself. The jury commended the team’s holistic approach to product design, noting the pleasant scent of the bug repellent as a standout feature.
Arquino, Italy: Redefining Urban Mobility
In Arquino, the focus was on urban mobility, a critical issue for cities worldwide. Participants worked on solutions to reduce traffic congestion, improve air quality, and enhance the accessibility of public transportation. The event brought together designers, engineers, and urban planners to brainstorm innovative ideas for sustainable mobility.
Winning Project: The winning team developed a smart traffic management system that uses real-time data to optimize traffic flow and reduce emissions. Their solution was praised for its potential to make urban environments more livable and sustainable.
Donostia-San Sebastián, Spain: Cultivating Community Through Food
The donostia-San Sebastián event centered on food sustainability and community building. Participants explored ways to create a more resilient food system that supports local farmers and promotes healthy eating habits. The event emphasized the importance of inclusivity, ensuring that all community members have access to nutritious food.
Winning project: The winning team created a community-supported agriculture (CSA) model that connects local farmers with urban consumers.Their initiative was recognized for its ability to strengthen community ties while promoting sustainable food practices.
Nicosia, Cyprus: Building Resilient Communities
In Nicosia, the focus was on building resilient communities in the face of climate change.Participants worked on projects that addressed issues such as water scarcity,energy efficiency,and disaster preparedness. The event highlighted the importance of collaboration and innovation in creating sustainable communities.
Winning Project: The winning team developed a community-based disaster response system that leverages local knowledge and resources to prepare for and respond to emergencies. Their solution was hailed as a model for fostering resilience in vulnerable communities.
A Bright Future for Europe
The Ignite NEB program has once again demonstrated the power of collaboration and innovation in addressing some of the most pressing challenges of our time. By fostering local solutions and building community connections, the initiative is helping to create a more sustainable, inclusive, and beautiful future for Europe. As the winners move forward with their projects,they serve as inspiring examples of what can be achieved through creativity and determination.
“The New European Bauhaus is not just about designing buildings or products; it’s about designing a better future for all of us,” said a spokesperson for the initiative. “These winning projects are proof that when we come together, we can create real change.”
For more information on the Ignite NEB program and its winners, visit Climate-KIC’s official website.
In a groundbreaking move to combat urban challenges, Team willow has been awarded the Social Impact Award for their innovative project, DaphnoScape.This living urban structure harnesses the power of fast-growing willow trees to address issues like heat, flooding, and air pollution in cities.Beyond its environmental benefits, DaphnoScape fosters community engagement through activities such as willow pruning and braiding, creating a sense of ownership and connection among residents.
“We are thrilled to see our vision of sustainable urban living come to life,” said a spokesperson for Team Willow. “DaphnoScape is not just about solving environmental problems; it’s about bringing people together to create healthier, more resilient cities.”
To learn more about Team Willow and their award-winning project, visit Blue City.
Reimagining Urban Living: The Design Sprint 4Planet Festival
In the charming town of Arquino, Italy, the Design Sprint 4Planet Festival brought together changemakers from around the globe to envision a sustainable future. Held at the Teatro Spazio Centrale, the event focused on creating “protopia” scenarios—sustainable futures where humanity thrives in harmony with nature.The festival centered on themes such as dwelling,energy,water resources,and cultural production,encouraging participants to develop actionable solutions that address local community needs.
Over the course of the event, 50 key challenges were identified and refined into meaningful design projects. This collaborative effort involved academic experts, environmentalists, and local residents, ensuring that the solutions were not only innovative but also deeply rooted in the community’s needs.
“The Design Sprint 4Planet Festival was a transformative experience,” said one participant. ”By working together, we were able to create solutions that are both practical and impactful, paving the way for a more sustainable future.”
Celebrating Innovation: The Festival’s Winners
The festival culminated in the announcement of several winning projects, each showcasing innovative approaches to sustainability. These projects ranged from energy-efficient housing solutions to water conservation initiatives, all designed to address the pressing environmental challenges of our time.
“The winners of the Design sprint 4Planet Festival represent the best of what collaboration and innovation can achieve,” said a festival organizer. “Their projects are a testament to the power of collective action in creating a sustainable future.”
as the world continues to grapple with the impacts of climate change, initiatives like DaphnoScape and the Design Sprint 4Planet Festival offer hope and inspiration. By fostering community engagement and promoting sustainable practices, these projects are helping to build a brighter, more resilient future for all.
Innovative Projects Take Center Stage at Ignite NEB Events
The latest installment of the Ignite NEB (New European Bauhaus) event series has once again showcased groundbreaking initiatives aimed at fostering sustainable and inclusive communities. Held in three vibrant locations—Valtellina, Italy; donostia-San Sebastián, Spain; and Nicosia, Cyprus—the events brought together a diverse array of innovators, designers, and social entrepreneurs to tackle pressing environmental and social challenges.
Valtellina, Italy: bridging Urban and Rural Economies
In the picturesque Valtellina valley, the Business Award was presented to BeLong, a trailblazing service that connects urban professionals with underutilized rural homes. By offering temporary remote work experiences in this serene region, BeLong not only combats urban burnout but also revitalizes local economies and promotes cultural exchange. “We believe in the power of connection,” said a BeLong representative. “By bringing people together, we can create a more sustainable and harmonious future.”
The Social Impact Award went to Valtellina 114, a community-driven podcast that champions sustainable tourism along the Valtellina Trail. Through training local residents in storytelling and podcast production, the project raises awareness about environmental conservation while celebrating the region’s rich heritage. “Our goal is to amplify local voices and inspire travelers to explore responsibly,” shared one of the podcast’s creators.
Donostia-San Sebastián, Spain: Embracing Circularity and Inclusivity
The Donostia-San Sebastián event focused on the principles of circularity and inclusivity, bringing together architects, designers, and social innovators for two days of workshops and discussions. Highlights included an exhibition on artistic reuse and a lively debate on how NEB principles can transform local communities. “This event was about more than just ideas—it was about action,” remarked one participant.
The Social impact Award was awarded to the Circular and Inclusive Furniture Reuse Ecosystem, led by Ane Salaberria Belasco of Emaús Gizarte Fundazioa. This innovative project combines circular economy practices with inclusive employment opportunities, collecting and repurposing professional furniture. “We’re creating a sustainable future while empowering individuals,” said Salaberria Belasco.
Meanwhile, the Business Award went to Solumobel’s Bathrooms for People with Stoma Bags, a modular, accessible bathroom solution designed for individuals who have undergone stoma surgery. “Our goal is to make life easier for those who need it most,” explained Jon Telleria of Solumobel.
Nicosia, Cyprus: Redesigning Urban Spaces for All
In Nicosia, the Ignite NEB hackathon at the Gardens of the Future education center brought together 52 participants for a weekend of innovation. Focusing on Sustainable Urban Development and Inclusive Public Spaces, the event tackled challenges such as zero-waste practices, reimagined parks, and revitalized industrial zones. “This was a unique chance to collaborate and create solutions that benefit everyone,” said one attendee.
The winning projects in Nicosia highlighted the potential for urban spaces to be transformed through collaboration and creativity. “We’re excited to see these ideas come to life and make a real difference in our communities,” said a member of the organizing team.
The ignite NEB events not only celebrated innovative projects but also reinforced the importance of collaboration in addressing global challenges.As the series continues,it serves as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when diverse minds come together to create a more sustainable and inclusive world.
Innovation Takes Center Stage at Nicosia Hackathon: Winners Highlight Community-Driven Solutions
In a vibrant display of creativity and collaboration, the recent hackathon in Nicosia, cyprus, brought together local innovators, experts, and community leaders to tackle pressing challenges through cutting-edge ideas. With the support of Nicosia’s Mayor Charalambos Prountzos, the event underscored the critical role of community-driven innovation in shaping a sustainable future.
Over the course of the hackathon, 14 teams worked tirelessly, guided by coaches and industry experts, to refine their pitches. The culmination of their efforts was a dynamic final session where participants voted on their favorite projects,celebrating the ingenuity and impact of each submission.
The Winning Projects: A Testament to Innovation
Pit-to-Table emerged as the winner of the Business Award, earning accolades for its groundbreaking approach to repurposing discarded olive pits into sustainable tabletops. Cyprus, a country that produces over 24,000 tonnes of olive pits annually, stands to benefit considerably from this initiative. Not only does it address waste management, but it also creates job opportunities for local farmers, aligning with the goals of the European Green Deal.
The Social Impact Award was presented to MC (Mobile Creative Capsule), a modular mobile system designed to host artistic events in underutilized or abandoned spaces. This innovative project not only provides an affordable platform for creative expression but also promotes sustainability through its eco-pleasant construction materials.
A Beacon for Future Innovation
The Ignite NEB event series, of which this hackathon was a part, has consistently highlighted the importance of local collaboration and innovation. each event, tailored to its unique setting, addresses community-driven challenges while fostering connections between people, ideas, and places. From Rotterdam’s insect repellents to Arquino’s community-driven podcasts, and from Donostia-San Sebastián’s inclusive design to Nicosia’s repurposed olive pits, the winning projects exemplify the wide-ranging impact of the EIT Community NEB.
As these teams move forward, their projects serve as a compass for future innovation, demonstrating how local initiatives can drive global change.The Nicosia hackathon not only celebrated the ingenuity of its participants but also reinforced the power of community-driven solutions in addressing some of the most pressing challenges of our time.
Grow NEB Program Empowers Local Communities with Sustainability and Inclusivity
A groundbreaking initiative is set to transform local communities across Europe,blending sustainability,inclusivity,and creativity to foster vibrant,revitalized neighborhoods. The grow NEB program, an initiative of the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT), is empowering individuals and groups to bring innovative ideas to life, focusing on breathing new energy into their local areas.
The program, which recently advanced to its next phase, has already seen remarkable success stories emerge from its participants. These projects not only highlight the potential of sustainable practices but also demonstrate how inclusivity can drive meaningful change in communities. As the program moves forward, organizers are eager to witness the continued growth and impact of these initiatives.
“Together,they prove that sustainability,inclusivity,and beauty are meaningful principles with which we can breathe new life into our local communities.”
The grow NEB program is part of the broader EIT Community NEB initiative, which aims to support and nurture innovative ideas that address societal challenges. By providing resources, mentorship, and a platform for collaboration, the program encourages participants to think creatively and implement solutions that benefit both their communities and the environment.
One of the key strengths of the Grow NEB program is its focus on inclusivity. By involving a diverse range of voices and perspectives, the initiative ensures that projects are not only innovative but also reflective of the needs and aspirations of the communities they serve. This approach has led to the development of projects that are both practical and inspiring, setting a new standard for community-driven initiatives.
As the program continues to expand, it is expected to have a ripple effect across Europe, inspiring other regions to adopt similar approaches. The success of the Grow NEB program demonstrates that with the right support and vision,communities can thrive while prioritizing sustainability and inclusivity.
For U.S. readers, the lessons from the Grow NEB program can serve as a valuable example of how local initiatives can drive positive change. By fostering collaboration and creativity, communities everywhere can work towards a future that is both sustainable and inclusive.
About the EIT Community NEB
The EIT Community NEB is an initiative of the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT),a body of the European Union dedicated to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.Through programs like Grow NEB, the EIT aims to empower individuals and organizations to tackle societal challenges and create a more sustainable future.
For more information on the Grow NEB program and how to get involved, visit the EIT website.
The **Grow NEB Program** is a transformative initiative by the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) that aims to empower local communities by fostering sustainability, inclusivity, and creativity. This program is designed to revitalize neighborhoods by encouraging innovative ideas and solutions that address local challenges while promoting a circular economy and social inclusion.
### Key Highlights of the Grow NEB Program:
1. **Community-Driven Innovation**:
The program emphasizes the importance of local collaboration, bringing together diverse stakeholders such as architects, designers, social innovators, and community leaders. By involving residents in the process, the Grow NEB Program ensures that solutions are tailored to the unique needs and characteristics of each community.
2. **Sustainability at the Core**:
Sustainability is a central theme of the Grow NEB Program. Projects focus on circular economy practices, zero-waste initiatives, and the repurposing of materials to reduce environmental impact. For example,initiatives like the **Circular and inclusive furniture Reuse ecosystem** in Donostia-San Sebastián and **Pit-to-table** in Nicosia demonstrate how waste can be transformed into valuable resources.
3. **Inclusivity and social Impact**:
The program is committed to creating inclusive opportunities that benefit all members of the community. Projects like the **Mobile Creative Capsule (MC)** in Nicosia and **Solumobel’s Bathrooms for People with Stoma Bags** highlight the importance of accessibility and social empowerment. These initiatives not only address practical needs but also create jobs and foster a sense of belonging.
4. **Celebrating Local Creativity**:
The Grow NEB Program celebrates the creativity and ingenuity of local communities. Through events like hackathons, workshops, and exhibitions, the program provides a platform for individuals to showcase their ideas and collaborate with others. The Nicosia hackathon, as an example, brought together 52 participants to tackle challenges related to urban progress and public spaces.
5. **global Impact Through Local Action**:
While the focus is on local communities, the impact of the Grow NEB Program extends globally. By addressing challenges at the grassroots level, the program demonstrates how small-scale initiatives can contribute to larger sustainability goals, such as the European green Deal.
### Success Stories:
– **Donostia-San sebastián**: The event in this city highlighted the principles of circularity and inclusivity, with the **Circular and Inclusive Furniture Reuse Ecosystem** winning the Social Impact Award. This project not only promotes sustainability but also provides employment opportunities for marginalized individuals.
– **Nicosia, Cyprus**: The nicosia hackathon showcased innovative solutions like **Pit-to-Table**, which repurposes olive pits into lasting tabletops, and **MC (Mobile Creative Capsule)**, a mobile system for hosting artistic events in underutilized spaces. These projects exemplify the program’s focus on sustainability and community engagement.
### The Future of the Grow NEB Program:
As the Grow NEB Program continues to expand, it serves as a beacon for other communities looking to embrace sustainability and inclusivity. By fostering collaboration, creativity, and local action, the program is paving the way for a more sustainable and inclusive future across Europe.
the Grow NEB Program is more then just an initiative—it’s a movement that empowers local communities to take charge of their future, creating vibrant, sustainable, and inclusive neighborhoods that benefit everyone.
