DigiTaL

Mehr als ‚Nice to Have‘: Warum Reflexion entscheidend für zukunftsfähige Lehre ist

Jascha Brandes — Sat, 01 Nov 2025 11:54:55 +0000

Von Gitte Köllner

Warum Selbstreflexion die Zukunftsfähigkeit von Studierenden stärkt

Reflexion ist eine zentrale Voraussetzung für die Zukunftsfähigkeit von Studierenden und Promovierenden. Neben Fach- und Methodenwissen braucht es Räume für kritisches Denken, Selbstverortung und die bewusste Auseinandersetzung mit eigenen Zielen. Genau hier setzt das Teilprojekt „Skills for a Digital Future“ im Rahmen des DigiTaL-Projekts – Digital Transformation Lab for Teaching and Learning (gefördert durch die Stiftung Innovation in der Hochschullehre) an. Wir haben praxisnahe Ansätze entwickelt, wie Reflexion als didaktisches Element systematisch in Curricula verankert werden kann, um Lern- und Transferprozesse gezielt zu fördern.

Future Skills – mehr als ein Buzzword

In der hochschulischen Diskussion um Future Skills – also zukunftsorientierte, überfachliche Kompetenzen – herrscht Einigkeit: Diese Fähigkeiten sind in einer digitalisierten und dynamischen Welt unverzichtbar (vgl. Ehlers, 2020; vgl. Stifterverband, 2021).

Wir haben uns dabei auf drei Kompetenzfelder konzentriert (vgl. Ehlers, 2022, S. 17–19):

Urteilsfähigkeit: kritisch-kreatives Denken, Bewerten, Entscheiden
Digitalkompetenz: Potenziale und Grenzen digitaler Technologien verstehen
Selbstkompetenz: Verantwortung für das eigene Lernen und Handeln übernehmen

Während Begriffe wie Urteilsfähigkeit und Selbstkompetenz klassische Bildungsziele sind, gewinnen sie in einer sich wandelnden (Arbeits-)Welt neue Relevanz – und werden im Kontext von Future Skills neu gerahmt. Reflexion nimmt darin eine Schlüsselrolle ein: Im Future-Skills-Framework des Stifterverbands gilt sie als Teil der Urteilsfähigkeit, im Modell von Ehlers als eigenständige Kompetenz und „umfasst die Bereitschaft und Fähigkeit zur Reflexion, also die Fähigkeit, sich selbst und andere zum Zweck der konstruktiven Weiterentwicklung hinterfragen zu können sowie zugrundeliegende Verhaltens-, Denk- und Wertesysteme zu erkennen und deren Konsequenzen für Handlungen und Entscheidungen holistisch einschätzen zu können“ (Ehlers, 2022, S. 18).

Reflexion als Fundament

Wir verstehen Reflexion – in Anlehnung an die Bildungswissenschaften – als zielgerichteten mentalen Prozess des Hinterfragens, Prüfens und Neubewertens (vgl. Aeppli & Lötscher, 2016, S. 84; vgl. Aufschnaiter et al., 2019, S. 148; vgl. Dewey, 1910, 1997, S. 6; vgl. Gläser-Zikuda et al., 2019, S. 517).

Internale Reflexion: Selbstwahrnehmung, Werte, Motivation
Externale Reflexion: Analyse gesellschaftlicher Entwicklungen und inhaltlicher Bezüge

Unsere Erfahrung: Spontane mündliche Reflexionen bleiben oft oberflächlich. Schriftliche Reflexion hingegen regt tiefere kognitive Prozesse an (vgl. Flower & Hayes, 1981). Sie zwingt, Gedanken zu Ende zu denken – oder Ungewissheit explizit festzuhalten. Beides ist Teil einer zukunftsgerichteten Reflexionskompetenz.

Zwei Formate: Deep Dives & Reflection Nuggets

Um Reflexion in Lehrveranstaltungen nachhaltig zu verankern, haben wir zwei Formate entwickelt:

Deep Dives – Blick nach innen: persönliche, nicht bewertete Selbstreflexion im geschützten Raum. Ziel ist die bewusste Auseinandersetzung mit individuellen Zielen, Erfahrungen und Lernprozessen.
Reflection Nuggets – Blick nach außen: inhaltlich ausgerichtete Reflexionen, die Seminarinhalte mit individuellen Perspektiven verknüpfen. Sie fördern den Transfer von Wissen und fließen anteilig in die Prüfungsleistung ein.

Praxisbeispiel 1: Navigating the Future

Reflexion als roter Faden – Prozessbegleitende Verankerung im Seminar

Im Master-Komplementärstudium haben wir ein Reflexionsformat erprobt, das gezielt die Förderung von Future Skills ermöglicht. Anstelle einer einmaligen Abschlussreflexion wurden die Aufgaben über das gesamte Seminar hinweg kleinschrittig strukturiert integriert:

Reflection Nuggets führten von der Antizipation eines Zukunftsszenarios über die Analyse der Auswirkungen von Digitalisierung bis hin zur Reflexion ethischer Fragen und relevanter Kompetenzen – Future Skills.
Deep Dives ermöglichten eine Standortbestimmung („NOW“), einen Ausblick („LOOK AHEAD“) und eine Rückschau („LOOK BACK“).

So entstand ein begleitendes Reflexionsformat für das Seminar „Navigating the Future: Building Critical Skills for Tomorrow“, der kontinuierliche Auseinandersetzung statt bloßer Rückschau am Ende der Lehrveranstaltung ermöglichte.

Praxisbeispiel 2: Reflect & Envision

Die digitale, internationale Spring School 2025 („Feature Your Future: Envisioning Research Culture in 2050“) kombinierte die inhaltliche Auseinandersetzung mit Theorien und Methoden zu Futures Thinking mit dem Anwenden dieser durch das Reflexionsformat.

Vorbereitung: Sechs Wochen vorab bearbeiteten die Teilnehmenden wöchentliche Reflection Nuggets und Deep Dives zur inhaltlichen Vorbereitung auf das Event.
Während der Spring School: Drei „Reflection Spaces“ gaben Raum, Keynotes und Workshops kritisch zu verarbeiten und unterschiedliche Perspektiven einzunehmen.
Abschluss: Ein kollektiver „Check-out“ bündelte individuelle Erkenntnisse und machte sichtbar, wie Zukunftsszenarien reflektiert und bewertet werden können.

Einblicke in die Reflection Nuggets und Deep Dives

Die Reflexionsaufgaben im Format „Reflect & Envision“ – der Begleitreflexion der Spring School – waren eng mit dem Programm verknüpft und strukturierten die Lernprozesse vor, während und nach dem Event.

Deep Dive 1 – Check-in (Kick-off, 6 Wochen vor der Spring School): Persönliche Standortbestimmung: Wie bist du hier? Was erwartest du? Was möchtest du konkret lernen?

Reflection Nugget 2 – Vorbereitung auf Workshop 3: Auseinandersetzung mit Design Thinking durch Video, Artikel und Praxisbericht. Anschließend Reflexion: Wie lässt sich die Methode nutzen, um die Zukunft von Research Culture zu antizipieren und Szenarien zu entwerfen?

Deep Dive 3 – Check-out (Reflection Space 3, letzter Tag): Rückschau im Steckbrief-Format: zentrale Erkenntnisse und ein persönlicher „Song of the Future“, geteilt in der gemeinsamen Teams-Umgebung.

KI-Richtlinien

Um eine echte, selbstbezügliche Reflexion sicherzustellen, wurden klare Vorgaben zur Nutzung von KI-basierten Tools gemacht: erlaubt war der Einsatz für Korrektur, Übersetzung oder Strukturierung der Texte (z. B. Blogposts), nicht aber für die Generierung von Inhalten. Entscheidend war nicht sprachliche Perfektion, sondern die authentische Auseinandersetzung, das Begründen und Erklären sowie der individuelle Transfer.

Unsere Learnings

Die Evaluation der Reflexionsformate, u. a. qualitative Inhaltsanalyse nach Kuckartz (2018), brachte drei zentrale Erkenntnisse:

Reflection is key.
Studierende schätzen die Gelegenheit, eigene Standpunkte und Zukunftsszenarien kritisch zu durchdenken. Reflexion stärkt Verantwortung und Gestaltungskompetenz.
Struktur schlägt Zufall.
Reflexion braucht didaktische Rahmung, Zeit und Feedback. Kontinuierliche, kleinschrittige Aufgaben sind wirksamer als einmalige Abschlussreflexionen.
Future Skills gehören ins Curriculum.
Urteilskraft, Selbstkompetenz und Reflexionsfähigkeit dürfen keine Nebenthemen bleiben. Sie müssen curricular verankert und mit Lernzielen sowie Prüfungsformaten verbunden werden.

Literaturverzeichnis

Aeppli, J. & Lötscher, H. (2016). EDAMA – Ein Rahmenmodell für Reflexion. Beiträge zur Lehrerinnen- und Lehrerbildung, 34(1), 78–97.

Aufschnaiter, C. von, Fraij, A. & Kost, D. (2019). Reflexion und Reflexivität in der Lehrerbildung. Herausforderungen Lehrer_innenbildung – Zeitschrift zur Konzeption, Gestaltung und Diskussion(2), 144–159. https://doi.org/10.4119/HLZ-2439

Dewey, J. (1910, 1997). How We Think. Dover Publications, Inc.

Ehlers, U.‑D. (2020). Future Skills : Lernen der Zukunft – Hochschule der Zukunft. Springer Nature.

Ehlers, U.‑D. (2022). Future Skills im Vergleich: Zur Konstruktion eines allgemeinen Rahmenmodells für Zukunftskompetenzen in der akademischen Bildung.

Flower, L. & Hayes, J. R. (1981). A Cognitive Process Theory of Writing. College Composition and Communication, 32(4), 365. https://doi.org/10.2307/356600

Gläser-Zikuda, M., Hagenauer, G., Hofmann, F. & Wolf, N. (2019). Reflexion in Lehr-Lernprozessen. In M. Harring, C. Rohlfs & M. Gläser-Zikuda (Hrsg.), UTB Schulpädagogik: Bd. 8698. Handbuch Schulpädagogik (S. 516–528). Waxmann.

Kuckartz, U. (2018). Qualitative Inhaltsanalyse. Methoden, Praxis, Computerunterstützung.

Stifterverband (2021). Future Skills Framework. https://future-skills.net/framework

The earth’s guide to fashion

SHK Digital — Wed, 03 Sep 2025 11:00:40 +0000

by Tessa and Svenja

Introduction – Tessa

Should we all go naked? If you ask Earth, then yes.

The fashion industry is one of the largest polluters of our environment and water. For a long time, it has been clear that fast fashion is bad in every aspect that exists. Workers are exploited, the environment is polluted, landfills are overflowing with new clothes and, and, and … Many people have been searching for sustainable and ethical solutions, but with shops like Shein, who is the biggest polluter in fashion according to yale climate connections (1), the problem increases more and more. Maybe the only way to actually wear sustainable clothes, is to not do it at all. You know, really lean into the German stereotype of loving nudeness. We agree, this solution is not for everyone…

In this article, we will firstly interview one of the biggest experts on sustainability and then explore other possible solutions in a self-experiment. We, being Svenja and Tessa, two students from the Leuphana University Lüneburg, who are interested in how we can use fashion more sustainably and how different cities implement thrifting and other forms of giving clothing a second life.

Expert Interview – Tessa

“Most humans have a really shitty fashion sense. It hurts me to my core and makes me feel hot and cold at the same time” – Earth

Did you ever wonder what the earth thinks of your clothing style?

We did and so we asked Earth if they would be open to an interview with us.

We met Earth in a small ecological cafe in the south of Hamburg. As they just rushed over from a different meeting, they were a bit hectic. I assumed this was the reason that Earth was sweating quite a lot during our talk. While we set up, they seemed very unbalanced in their moods and I noticed some ill-looking spots all over their face. Of course, I did not comment on it, but it made me worried. Nonetheless, Earth was very polite and accommodating, almost people pleasingly so, for our whole interview. Let’s dive in!

I: It is a pleasure to meet you! Thank you for taking your time for this interview!

Earth (E): The pleasure’s all mine!

I: As we already talked about, this interview is about fashion and especially the fashion sense or rather style maybe of us, humans. For many of us, fashion plays a part in our day to day lives, for some its a huge part, for some less. How important is fashion for you?

E: Very! But I guess not in the same way as it is for you. For you it is about self-expression, about fun but also practical, needed for staying warm – in a sense a protection, an armor against the sun, the cold, for your skin and your whole body but also against judgment and public humiliation, right?

I: You could say that, yes. In a lot of ways it also signals belonging to a certain group and is a big part of self-identity.

E: Right. For me, it is about more than that. It is about living or dying almost.

I: How?

E: Well (They take a deep breath and closed their eyes for a second, looking very tired.) Did you know that the clothing industry and especially textile dyeing is the second largest polluter of water (2)?

I: I actually did not know that. Thank you for enlightening me! How?

E: Yeah. Firstly, the sourcing of fibers, such as cotton, requires significant water, land and energy. But today not all clothes are made with cotton. Synthetic fibers are getting more and more common. They make up nearly 70% of your clothes and the creation of those involve chemical and energy-intensive processes (3).

I: And those chemicals get into the water, right?

E: Right. But those synthetic fibers are also derived from fossil fuels and during the production greenhouse gases are emitted.

I: Oh wow. So what are other reasons that the clothing industry is such a big water polluter?

E: Well, the second one is microplastic. Clothing waste makes up around 9% of microplastic pollution (4) , which obviously goes into the water and harms sea life and humans alike.

I: That’s tough! So we all should just go naked then? To avoid all this pollution?

E: If you ask me like that, then yes. But I know there are good reasons for you to wear them and of course I don’t want to take that away from you. First of all, you could recycle your worn clothes more. Only 20% of clothing waste worldwide is recycled and the US alone throws away 13 million tons of clothing every year. Imagine now just wearing half of it longer or recycling it properly (5). Secondly, a good solution could be reusing more clothes. Just because you don’t like a certain top anymore, doesn’t mean no one will ever like it again. Ask your friends to swap clothes, bring them to your local thrift shop and so on. You also do not always have to buy something newly made. Lots of clothes are being resold online, even some of the newest collections, if you have to be trendy… And you can even save money while doing so.

I: Wow, this actually does not sound as hard as I thought. What a good way to end this interview. Thank you so much, Earth. For your time, your honesty and your advice!

Fashion Blog – Svenja

After our enlightening (and slightly guilt-inducing) conversation with Earth, we decided to step up our game. Could we make more conscious fashion choices without sacrificing our personal style—or our wallets? The answer: thrifting and exploring unique spaces like „Die Zwiebel“ (The Onion) in Lüneburg, as well as learning about thrift swaps in Gainesville, Florida.

Thrifting and clothing swaps offer a stylish solution. Plus, it’s like a treasure hunt—except every find is a win for you and the planet.

Let’s be honest: there’s nothing quite as satisfying as finding a one-of-a-kind gem for a fraction of its original price. Whether it’s a vintage leather jacket or the perfect pair of worn-in jeans, thrift stores are full of surprises.

Here’s how to master the art of thrifting:

1. Go with an open mind: You never know what you’ll find, so keep your options broad.

2. Check for quality: Look for durable fabrics and timeless pieces that will last. Check out this guide to find out how! h ttps://crownandstep.com/2025/02/17/how-to-spot-quality-finds-while-thrifting-a-complete-guide/?srsltid=AfmBOooMfGtMR60eJEk6M3mfuT9kQdsojVHDlfqkvdWCNQ9YAha9oH2x

3. Think creatively: An oversized blazer? Belt it for a chic silhouette. A flowy dress? Hem it for a fresh look.

And if you don’t have the necessary gold doubloons for a treasure hunt? There are solutions like “Die Zwiebel”. Located in the Rotes Feld district of Lüneburg, Die Zwiebel is a gifting space on the campus of Leuphana University. It’s a treasure trove where clothing, books, and other items are freely shared among the community. The concept is simple: bring what you no longer need and take what you like.

Visiting Die Zwiebel felt like stepping into a microcosm of sustainable living. The shelves were brimming with clothes of all kinds, from basic staples to quirky vintage finds. You can find a cozy knit cardigan, or a fun graphic tee that has all the charm of a thrift store treasure.

The best part? There’s no money involved—just a spirit of sharing and reuse. It proves that sustainability doesn’t have to be complicated or costly. In the changing room at Die Zwiebel, the words above the mirror said it all: ‚Tauschen ist toll’—Swapping is great! A simple phrase that captures how sustainable fashion can be easy, fun, and accessible to everyone through community-based solutions.

Our partners in Gainesville, Florida, shared insights about a similar experience with the University of Florida Thrift Club. Established in 2021, the club’s thrift swaps have become a hub for students passionate about slow fashion and upcycling.

Here’s how their events work:

● Participants bring at least one clothing item to swap.

● Items are collected and laid out by the executive board.

● Swappers take turns selecting new-to-them pieces.

● Any leftover items are donated to Peaceful Paths, a domestic violence center.

There are challenges the club faces like managing competitiveness at events and staying focused on community improvement. However, their vision is inspiring: expanding thrift swaps beyond the university, fostering community connection, and raising awareness about second-hand fashion.

Gainesville’s thrift swaps show how these events do more than reduce waste. They build community, support important causes, and offer an affordable way for college students to refresh their wardrobes. As our partners noted, they’ve even seen how these swaps can improve mental health by creating a sense of belonging and shared purpose.

Thrifting and Swapping: A Sustainable Future

From Die Zwiebel’s gifting space to Gainesville’s thriving thrift culture, these initiatives prove that sustainable fashion can be inclusive, creative, and community-driven. By giving clothes a second life, we reduce waste, conserve resources, and foster connections with others who share a commitment to sustainability.

Whether it’s finding a gem at a thrift store, swapping items with friends, or supporting community-focused events like thrift swaps, small changes in how we approach fashion can make a big difference.

Conclusion – Svenja

The fashion industry’s impact on the planet is undeniable, but the solutions to mitigate this impact are both creative and accessible. Thrifting and swapping are powerful tools in this fight. These practices not only reduce waste and conserve resources but also empower individuals to make mindful choices that reflect their values. Spaces like Die Zwiebel and Gainesville’s Thrift Club demonstrate that sustainable fashion doesn’t have to be expensive or exclusive. In fact, it can be a fun, community-driven experience that fosters connections and inspires innovation.

Choosing pre-loved clothing is a small but powerful step toward protecting the planet. Thrifting, swapping, and supporting local initiatives all contribute to a more sustainable future. It’s not about perfection but progress—prioritizing quality, longevity, and community over fast fashion. Every mindful choice creates a ripple effect, inspiring others and showing Earth we’re ready to do better.

While Earth might still dream of a nudist utopia, we think these efforts are a step in the right direction—toward a future where fashion truly becomes a force for good.

Sources

1 Kitajima Mulkey, S. (2024). Shein is officially the biggest polluter in fast fashion. in: Yale Climate Connections https://yaleclimateconnections.org/2024/09/shein-is-officially-the-biggest-polluter-in-fast-fashion-ai-is-making-things-worse/ last visited on: 07.03.2025

2 Wolfe, I. (2024, July 17). Textile Dyes Pollution: The Truth about fashion’s toxic colours – Good on you. Good on You. https://goodonyou.eco/textile-dyes-pollution/ last visited on: 07.03.2025

3 ibid.

4 Sparkman, L. (2024, February 14). Unraveling the impact of thrifting. Earth Day. https://www.earthday.org/unraveling-the-impact-of-thrifting/ last visited on: 07.03.2025

5 ibid

University life – Sex, drugs and mental health

SHK Digital — Thu, 28 Aug 2025 06:46:54 +0000

Milena Sarwary and Jarmila Binia

Hey there, curious reader!

We’re Milena and Jarmila, the masterminds (or at least the dedicated writers) behind this blog. One of us studies Environmental Science, the other studies Law—so naturally, we figured, why not tackle a project together and mix legal thinking with eco-consciousness? A perfect match, right?

But here’s the fun part: We actually first met as guides for international students, helping them navigate life in Germany. Fast forward, and we randomly ended up in the same seminar, staring at each other like, “Wait… haven’t we done this before?” Life works in mysterious ways! With the help of amazing students from the USA and Brazil, we’ve gathered insights and stories to make this blog as exciting and informative as possible. So buckle up, enjoy the read, and maybe—just maybe—you’ll learn something new while having a laugh or two!

Now let´s begin with our blog.

Scrolling through Instagram at midnight, exhausted from studying, she sees another perfectly curated photo – a girl in a flawless outfit, glowing skin, toned body. She sighs, closes her books, and wonders, “Why can’t I have it all together like them?”

Financial stress, academic pressure, social media comparison, and burnout are all factors affecting students´ mental health. Why does this matter? If universities don’t address these issues, it leads to long-term consequences, including declining academic performance and emotional exhaustion.

This blog will explore the key contributors to student anxiety – social media, financial pressure,academic pressure, academic expectations, and social isolation – while highlighting solutions that can help turn awareness into action.

Milena

Basic Infos, just so you know

A questionnaire representing Leuphana students shows that 56.1% of students impaired by mental illness. The most common are depression (45.1%), anxiety disorders (27.3%) and eating disorders (15%). Furthermore, the second most frequent cause are chronic-somatic illnesses in general (19.8%) and (7%) dyslexia, dyscalculia, concentration disorders and AD(H)S (Leuphana University Lüneburg (a)).

Meanwhile, in the USA About 65% of college students are in need of mental health resources, but only 13% of overall students will have clear access to it (Preeti Vankar, November 2023).

WWhile 81% of students are aware that their school provides mental health services, about half (40%) believe that their school does not provide enough support to student mental health (Jessica Bryant and Lyss Welding, March 2024)

Jarmila

The Heavy Toll of Financial Stress on University Students

For many university students, financial stress is not just an inconvenience—it is a persistent burden that directly impacts their mental health, academic performance, and overall well-being. The rising cost of tuition, skyrocketing rent, and increasing daily expenses force students into an exhausting cycle of financial insecurity, often requiring them to balance multiple jobs alongside their studies.

Consider Anna, a third-year university student whose reality reflects that of countless others. Her day begins before sunrise with an early shift as a barista, followed by a full schedule of lectures. In the evening, she transitions into her second job as a tutor, often working late into the night just to

stay afloat financially. While her peers unwind or catch up on much-needed sleep, Anna is fighting exhaustion, battling stress, and struggling to keep up with academic deadlines. The relentless pressure to secure financial stability isolates her from social interactions, drains her energy, and exacerbates feelings of burnout.

Jarmilia

This financial strain is not an isolated experience—it is a systemic issue affecting millions of students worldwide. With the rising cost of higher education and insufficient financial aid options, students are increasingly forced to sacrifice their well-being just to afford their education. The question remains: How can universities and policymakers alleviate this burden to ensure that higher education is a place of learning, not survival?

Milena

The Digital Pressure Cooker

While financial stress weighs heavily on students, another invisible force is shaping their mental well-being – social media. What started as a tool for connection and entrainment has evolved into a constant stream of comparison, validation-seeking, and unattainable beauty standards.

Scrolling through Instagram or TikTok, students are bombarded with images of flawless bodies, perfect grades and seemingly effortless success. But behind every “candid“ photo is careful curation, editing, and in many cases, and unrealistic portrayal of reality.

This begs the question: How does social media impacts students´ mental health and what can be done to break the cycle of comparison and self-doubt?

Milena

The Social Media Effect: The Illusion of Perfection

In today’s digital world, students are constantly exposed to carefully curated versions of success.

Whether it’s an influencer seemingly effortless lifestyle, a classmates straight A semester, or a perfectly edited travel photo, social media creates a distorted reality where failure, struggle, and imperfection rarely make an appearance.

What Social Media Breaks in Us: Student Voices

It happens almost without thinking. I open Instagram for just a few minutes – just to check.

But before I know it, I’m caught in a scroll spiral. There she is: another stunning girl, effortlessly beautiful, glowing, standing in perfect lighting, wearing an outfit I could never pull off. I scroll again – another girl, flawless skin, toned body, a dreamlike vacation. I try to remind myself that these images aren’t real, that they’re filtered, edited, curated. But deep down, I still feel it: I’m not enough.

Even though I know the reality behind social media, I still catch myself comparing my body, my life, and my achievements to people who only show the highlight reel of their lives. If I feel this way, I can’t help but wonder – how many other young woman feel the same?

So I asked them.

In my interview with university students around Germany, I asked a simple but profound question:

„What does social media break in you?“

The responses were overwhelmingly similar – confidence, self-worth, peace of mind.

Milena

Solutions and Offers are the key

At the Leuphana the University Service, the Student Administration and the Asta Service have different solutions and services.

The University Service has the Appointee for Students with Disabilities or Chronic Illnesses, who supports in all study-related matters and always free of charge and is confidential. There is the Office for Equal Opportunities that can make adjustments to avoid barriers and takes suggestions from students. To protect the students whenever they have problems with a professor there are the so called “Ombudspersons” who work on voluntary basis and can be contacted whenever there is a suspicion of violation of code of Ethics (Leuphana University Lüneburg (b)). The Student Administration offers individual counseling where students engage in confidential one-on-one sessions with professionals counselors to discuss concerns. They also offer group workshops and sessions on topic as mindfulness and self-compassion. Their additional focus areas are study challenges like exam anxiety, motivation and concentration. Students can also come for advice for personal issues like self-esteem, relationships and loneliness. They also are crisis intervention point for urgent psychological concerns.

The UF in America also has a counselling programme offered by the Counselling and Wellness Centre at UF, which is on campus and accessible for students, and has served 935 students so far this semester. The main issues reported are difficulty concentrating, anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts. The programme has approximately 55 counsellors available. The majority of students using the service are graduate students and 3rd year undergraduate students. This service is free to UF students with their student ID, as their services are covered by the student health fee.

Jarmila

Turning Awareness into Action

The mental health struggles that university students face today are not just personal challenges—they are the result of larger systemic issues. Financial insecurity and the pressures of social media are not just sources of stress; they shape how students experience higher education and impact their ability to succeed. While individual coping strategies are helpful, real change requires action from universities, policymakers, and students themselves.

Addressing Financial Stress: Making Higher Education More Accessible

One of the most effective ways to improve student mental health is to reduce financial strain.Universities must take responsibility for making education more accessible by expanding scholarships, financial aid programs, and affordable housing options. Many students are forced to juggle multiple jobs just to afford tuition and rent, leaving them with little time to focus on their studies or well-being.

Additionally, universities should introduce mandatory financial literacy courses to help students develop budgeting skills, understand debt, and make informed financial decisions. Money management is rarely taught in schools, yet it is one of the most significant stressors in adulthood. Equipping students with these skills early on can help prevent financial crises later in life.

On an individual level, students can take proactive steps by seeking financial counseling, applying for grants and scholarships, and advocating for policy changes that improve the affordability of higher education. No student should have to choose between paying for their education and taking care of their mental health.

Breaking the Social Media Comparison Cycle

In addition to financial stress, social media has become one of the biggest contributors to student anxiety, particularly among young women. The constant pressure to measure up to filtered images and highlight reels creates unrealistic expectations that lead to self-doubt and decreased self-esteem.

To combat this, universities should promote digital wellness initiatives by offering workshops on media literacy, organizing social media detox challenges, and creating peer-led discussions on self-esteem and mental resilience. Understanding how social media distorts reality is key to reducing its negative impact.

At the individual level, students can take control of their digital well-being by unfollowing accounts that trigger insecurity, taking regular social media breaks, and remembering that what they see online is not an accurate reflection of real life.

Beyond personal action, we also need broader societal change. Advocacy for greater transparency in influencer culture, ethical advertising practices, and regulations on excessive digital manipulation can help shift beauty and success standards toward something more authentic and attainable.

Universities Must Prioritize Mental Health Resources

While financial stress and social media pressures are significant, the lack of accessible mental health support on many campuses is a major issue that needs to be addressed. Far too often, students experiencing anxiety, depression, or burnout do not seek help—not because they don’t need it, but because they don’t know where to find it or they fear the stigma attached to mental health struggles.

Universities need to take active steps to increase the visibility and accessibility of counseling services, mental health hotlines, and peer support programs. Simply offering these resources is not enough—students need to be aware of them, and they need to be easy to access.

Creating safe spaces on campus where students can openly discuss their struggles without judgment can also make a significant difference. Mental health should not be treated as an afterthought—it should be a fundamental part of the student experience.

Milena & Jarmila

From Awareness to Action: What Needs to Happen Next?

The mental health crisis among university students cannot be solved by individual effort alone. It is a structural issue that requires institutional and societal change. Universities, policymakers, and students must work together to build a system where mental well-being is a priority, not an afterthought.

• Universities need to implement policies that reduce financial stress, expand mental health services, and promote digital literacy.

• Students need to take charge of their own well-being by setting boundaries with social media, seeking financial assistance when needed, and speaking out about mental health.

• As a society, we need to stop glorifying burnout, perfectionism, and unrealistic expectations that harm students‘ mental health.

At the end of the day, the question is no longer whether student mental health is a crisis—it is. The real question is: How do we create an education system where students are set up to thrive, rather than just survive?

This conversation is just the beginning. Real change happens when awareness turns into action. The future of student mental health depends on what we do next.

Milena & Jarmila

Sources

Leuphana University Lüneburg (a). (n.g.) https://www.leuphana.de/en/institutions/officefor-equal-opportunities/offers-and-information/study-impairment/studying-with-mentalillnesses.html (20.11.2024)

Leuphana University Lüneburg (b). (n.g.) Leuphana University Lüneburg. https://www.leuphana.de/en/institutions/office-for-equalopportunities/offers-and-information/study-impairment/hardship-application-and-waitingsemesters.html (20.11.2024)

Jessica Bryant and Lyss Welding. (March 22, 2024).https://www.bestcolleges.com/research/college-student-mental-health-statistics/

Preeti Vankar (November 29, 2023). https://www.statista.com/statistics/1126750/barriersto-mental-health-services-college-students-us/

Photo:

Figure 1: Preeti Vankar, November 2023 (https://www.statista.com/statistics/1126750/barriers-tomental-health-services-college-students-us/)

Figure 2: Financial stress (Sarah Allam) (https://dailyorange.com/2019/09/colleges-can-helpstudents-financially-struggling/)

Figure 3: Individual Counceling Team Leuphana (https://stwon.de/l%C3%BCneburg/beratung/pbs/team)

Figure 4: Awareness into Action (https://www.palletone.com/ceo-blog/get-better-every-day/)

Figure 5: Stronger students (https://www.eurokidsindia.com/blog/strategies-to-enhance-academicperformance-and-support-student.php)

Biophilic Design

SHK Digital — Mon, 18 Aug 2025 10:56:45 +0000

Marlon Nnamocha, Kana Casas and Egisona Qosja

Trigger Warning: This Blog article discusses themes of addiction, recovery, and environmental challenges, drawing inspiration from Alcoholics Anonymous’s framework. Reader’s discretion encouraged.

Welcome to Ugly Cities Anonymous, where we’ve all gathered to admit that, yes, our cities are often a far cry from the verdant, leafy places we crave. Urban deserts, towering glass facades, and green spaces that feel more like afterthoughts—if only our cities knew how to show their true colors! But fear not, fellow urbanites, because there’s hope on the horizon. Breaking the Cycle explores how biophilic design—our city’s version of rehab—can help cities reconnect with the natural world.

Like any good support group, our journey begins with acknowledging the problem: despite the hustle and bustle, our cities often lack that one thing that sustains both our bodies and minds—nature. Biophilia, the deep-rooted human connection to the natural world, offers a remedy. It’s not just about planting a few trees or installing a rooftop garden; it’s about rethinking urban spaces from the ground up, seeding sustainability, cultural identity, and green innovation into every street corner and high-rise.

But don’t worry, we’re not in this alone. Alongside us, there are a few senior members, who have already begun their recovery. Our friends from Lüneburg (Germany) and Gainesville (USA) are here to help guide us on this journey, sharing their stories of how they are turning their cities around. For decades, city planning prioritized cost-cutting, car-friendly design, and large apartment buildings, focusing on function over beauty and leaving cities feeling lifeless and disconnected from nature (Ellis 2019). But examples like Lüneburg’s climate-neutral campus and Gainesville’s nature-infused healthcare spaces show that change is possible.

Lüneburg

Dear Ugly Cities Anonymous, I am very excited to tell my story! I am sure we can all better ourselves, and I want to speak to you about what I achieved through city planning and hard work. I will also share my problems with you; nobody is perfect, but we should strive to become better for ourselves, the environment, and all our inhabitants.

My strength lies in biophilic design, as demonstrated by the iconic Leuphana University main building. While much of me has grown in harmony with nature for over a thousand years, part of me has taken a different path. What began as a modest teacher-training college has transformed into a sustainability-driven university, marked by Daniel Libeskind’s bold architecture. Some celebrate this as innovation, while others argue it clashes with my historic character (Trenkamp 2010). Still, I embrace my transformation and I’ve brought a little virtual tour of it for you—feel free to look around and experience its beauty! https://virtual-tour.web.leuphana.de/en/start/.

As you can see, the main building has a green roof covered with grass and floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the interior with natural light. I have also invested in solar energy, reducing my carbon footprint (Opel et al. 2017). I achieved a climate-neutral energy balance and received the sustainability award in 2023 (Zühlsdorff 2023). However, I still have flaws. For instance, my center, Am Sande, lacks many trees and becomes uncomfortably hot in the summer due to the absence of shade. This is problematic because excessive heat can negatively affect my inhabitants. However, incorporating biophilic designs, such as adding more vegetation, could help address this issue by reducing urban heat, improving air quality, and enhancing mental well-being (GEO-NET Umweltconsulting GmbH 2019).

A recent survey carried out at Leuphana University revealed that spending time in nature helps students feel more relaxed and improves their mental and physical well-being (Nnamocha 2024). Most of them noticed health benefits, while only a few saw no change. Similarly, the majority believe biophilic architecture enhances urban environments, though some remain uncertain.

Lastly, I’d like to share a fascinating insight from this study. As you can see here, the students reported different changes in academic focus, compared to how much time they spend in green spaces. We noticed that around the board people felt either no improvement or some improvement, while those spending 30–60 minutes in nature reported the most significant benefits. Interestingly, none of the students in the sample reported spending less than 10 minutes outside!

I’ll end my monologue now with a nice picture for you, dear ugly cities, to look at. My students shared which biophilic elements they found most appealing. Feel free to pass around and take a closer look!

Now I am giving the ball to Gainesville

Gainesville

Thank you, Lüneburg. I saw the same effects as you! 26 out of 52 students at the University of Florida reported a significant positive impact on physical relaxation and health when spending time close to nature. While 22 felt some and 4, had no impact. Additionally, 44 students think biophilic architecture can improve urban landscapes, with 8 being not sure. I also brought the same chart as Lüneburg, a funny coincidence, but made by my students. Also, feel free to pass around.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.

Now as for me, I’m proud of integrating biophilic design in the UF Health Shands Children’s Hospital. As one of the leading pediatric medical centers in Florida, this hospital plays a crucial role in advancing healthcare and research. If you look inside, you can see plants and pictures of animals on the walls, creating a warm, welcoming space for young patients. I even brought a little video, where children talk about the hospital! https://youtu.be/sUlYUp9cCl8.

For my people, it promoted well-being and impacted the community’s connection to nature. We found that biophilic environments reduce stress and improve mental health (McGee & Marshall-Baker 2015). This ultimately benefits my dear residents, making me more livable (Index Methods and Sources – AARP Livability Index, n.d.)!

Also, I want to add that my approach differs from Lüneburg’s not just in purpose but also in cultural context. In Germany, sustainability efforts often intertwine with historic preservation, blending old and new, while I have more flexibility to reshape my spaces. That’s why it was easier for me to redesign a children’s hospital than for Lüneburg to secure funding for a big, bold university project. Both of us are surrounded by nature, but while Lüneburg integrates green spaces into its urban core, I tend to preserve mine in parks and reserves just outside my city limits.

A big applause for our senior members and previously ugly cities!

I also want to applaud you, dear participants of Ugly Cities Anonymous, for being brave and willing to change. The numbers shared by our senior members show that people feel better when surrounded by nature. From improved focus to physical relaxation, the statistics clarify that biophilic design isn’t just a theory—it’s a proven way to enhance well-being in our cities. Lüneburg showed us how sustainability can blend with history, while Gainesville highlighted its impact on healthcare. Together, they proved that no matter the setting, nature can transform urban spaces for the better.

Why Mental Health Should Be at the Core of Urban Recovery?

Let’s be real for a second. Living in a city can be tough on the mind. The constant noise, the rush of people, the never-ending sea of grey. It’s no wonder urban residents are more likely to experience anxiety, depression, and burnout. And yet, the solution to this problem has been right in front of us all along: nature.

Our senior members have already hinted at this. Gainesville spoke about the calming effect of animal murals and indoor plants in their hospital. Lüneburg showed us how green roofs and light-filled buildings can create more pleasant environments for students.

But why is this so important?? Attention Restoration Theory explains that being in nature isn’t just relaxing; it’s like hitting the reset button for your brain. Even short periods of exposure to green spaces can reduce stress and improve focus (Ohly et al. 2016; Ackerman 2021). Imagine if our cities weren’t just places to live and work but places that actively supported our mental well-being! A future like that isn’t only about mental health; it’s also about sustainability.

Sustainability: Finding Balance Between Progress and Preservation

Lüneburg, for example, took the brave step of acknowledging its environmental impact and committed to becoming a climate-neutral campus. They didn’t stop at installing solar panels; they rethought their entire approach to energy use. It wasn’t easy, but it was worth it. And the best part? They’re now inspiring other cities to do the same.

Gainesville showed us that sustainability isn’t just about big, flashy projects. Sometimes, it’s the small changes that make the biggest difference. By incorporating biophilic design into their hospital, they created a space that not only looks good but also feels good. It’s a reminder that sustainability and well-being go hand-in-hand.

So, what’s the takeaway here? Sustainability isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Each city has its unique challenges and opportunities. The key is to find what works for your community and commit to it. Remember, recovery is a journey, not a destination.

The Future: Building Cities That Heal

So, how do we bring it all together? How do we create cities that are both mentally restorative and environmentally sustainable?

First and foremost, it begins with a shift in mindset.

We need to prioritize green spaces. Parks, gardens, and tree-lined streets shouldn’t be afterthoughts. Instead, they should be central to urban planning. These spaces do more than beautify our cities; they regulate temperatures, improve air quality, and provide places for people to unwind (Mishra and Yu 2022). Think of them as urban detox centers.

Second, urban design needs to be intentional. It’s not enough to just add a few trees to a building and call it a day. We need to create spaces that feel welcoming and inclusive. It’s about designing with empathy in mind!

Of course, biophilic design isn’t without its challenges. Some say adding greenery can raise property values, leading to gentrification, while others worry about high maintenance costs. But these issues don’t outweigh the benefits. Cities can plan green spaces fairly, making them accessible to everyone, not just the wealthy. And while upkeep costs exist, the long-term benefits—better health, cleaner air, and climate protection—make it a smart investment (Beatley 2016).

Finally, cities need to embrace a culture of continuous improvement. Recovery isn’t a one-and-done process. It’s ongoing. No city is perfect, and that’s okay. What’s important is the willingness to adapt and evolve (WHO Regional Office for Europe 2016). Take our friend Rio Grande, for example—it’s working on Projeto Orla, an initiative focused on restoring coastal ecosystems, enhancing public access to waterfronts, and integrating sustainability into urban planning (Brasil 2021).

As we wrap up this session of Ugly Cities Anonymous, let’s take a moment to appreciate how far we’ve come. We’ve admitted the problem, learned from our senior members, and committed to change. That’s a big step.

It’s important to note that recovery is a journey that happens one day at a time. The cities of tomorrow can be places of beauty, sustainability, and mental well-being. They can be places where people feel connected to their communities and the natural world. But it won’t happen overnight.

So, dear participants, let’s keep going. Let’s advocate for greener spaces, more thoughtful design, and sustainable practices. Let’s build cities that inspire, sustain, and truly come alive. Because at the end of the day, we all deserve to live in communities that make us feel at home with nature, with ourselves, and with each other.

References:

Ackerman, Courtney E. “Attention Restoration Theory: A Complete Guide.” PositivePsychology.com, 2021, https://positivepsychology.com/attention-restoration-theory/. Ackerman is a psychologist and writer specializing in positive psychology and mental well-being.

Beatley, Timothy. Handbook of Biophilic City Planning & Design. Island Press, 2016, https://islandpress.org/books/handbook-biophilic-city-planning-design. Beatley is a professor of sustainable urban planning at the University of Virginia, focusing on biophilic cities and urban resilience.

Brasil. Manual do Projeto Orla: Fundamentos e Metodologia. Ministério da Economia, Oct. 2021, https://www.gov.br/economia/pt-br/arquivos/planejamento/arquivos-e-imagens/secretarias/arquivo/spu/publicacoes/081021_pub_projorla_fundamentos.pdf.

Ellis, Cliff. „History of Cities and Urban Planning.“ Art.Net, 2019, http://www.art.net/~hopkins/Don/simcity/manual/history.html. Ellis is a professor of city and regional planning, with expertise in urban history and sustainable design.

GEO-NET Umweltconsulting GmbH. Stadtklimaanalyse Lüneburg. Stadt Lüneburg, Fachbereich Stadtentwicklung, 2019, https://www.hansestadt-lueneburg.de/_Resources/Persistent/0/7/d/2/07d270590a617e27a4236acd35234f864ccf8629/Stadtklimaanalyse_Abschlussbericht.pdf.

“Index Methods and Sources – AARP Livability Index.” AARP, n.d., https://livabilityindex.aarp.org/methods-sources.

McGee, Ben, and A. Marshall-Baker. “Loving Nature from the Inside Out.” HERD Health Environments Research & Design Journal, vol. 8, no. 4, 2015, pp. 115–130. https://doi.org/10.1177/1937586715578644. McGee and Marshall-Baker are researchers in environmental psychology, exploring the impact of biophilic design on health and well-being.

Mishra, Anamika, and Richard Yu. “Urban Planning & Mental Health: How Can We Design Healthier Cities for Our Aging Population to Improve Mental Health Outcomes.” University of Western Ontario Medical Journal, 2022, https://www.academia.edu/97081754/Urban_planning_mental_health?auto=download. Mishra and Yu are researchers in urban health, focusing on how city design impacts mental well-being.

Nnamocha, Marlon. Public Health Group Project Survey. Leuphana University, 2024, https://docs.google.com/forms/d/13XyslAP1dBU8uKNOfTsVLzUiZ0thaiAiOyTsa1o-ERk/viewform?edit_requested=true. Marlon Nnamocha is a student who conducted a public health survey at the Leuphana University Lüneburg.

Opel, Oliver, et al. “Climate-Neutral and Sustainable Campus Leuphana University of Lueneburg.” Energy, vol. 141, 2017, pp. 2628–39, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.energy.2017.08.039.

Trenkamp, Oliver. „Libeskind-Audimax in Lüneburg: Prachtbau für die Provinz.“ Spiegel Online, 22 Dec. 2010, www.spiegel.de/lebenundlernen/uni/libeskind-audimax-in-lueneburg-prachtbau-fuer-die-provinz-a-735952.html. Trenkamp is a journalist covering architecture and urban development.

World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for Europe. Urban Green Spaces and Health: A Review of Evidence. 2016, https://iris.who.int/bitstream/handle/10665/345751/WHO-EURO-2016-3352-43111-60341-eng.pdf.

Zühlsdorff, Hanna. “Leuphana Wins the German Sustainability Award 2023.” Leuphana University Lüneburg, 3 Nov. 2023, https://www.leuphana.de/en/university/events/press-releases/single-view/2023/11/03/leuphana-wins-the-german-sustainability-award-2023.html.

Image sources:

Fig.1: OpenAI’s DALL·E. A Creative Illustration of an Urban Recovery Support Group Called ‚Ugly Cities Anonymous. Generated on 12 Jan. 2025.

Fig.2: GEO-NET Umweltconsulting GmbH. Stadtklimaanalyse Lüneburg. Stadt Lüneburg, Fachbereich Stadtentwicklung, 2019, p. 26. https://www.hansestadt-lueneburg.de/_Resources/Persistent/0/7/d/2/07d270590a617e27a4236acd35234f864ccf8629/Stadtklimaanalyse_Abschlussbericht.pdf. Accessed 29 Dec. 2024.

Fig.3: Joergens, Michael. Am Sande in Lüneburg, Germany. CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons. https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/a/a1/L%C3%BCneburg_Am_Sande_012_9319.jpg. Accessed 20 Feb. 2025.

Fig.4: ChatGPT (OpenAI). Time Spent in Green Spaces vs Academic Focus Changes – Leuphana University. Generated on 12 Jan. 2025 in response to user input for project assistance.

Fig.5: ChatGPT (OpenAI). Which of the Following Biophilic Designs Do You Find Most Appealing (Select All That Apply) – Leuphana University. Generated on 12 Jan. 2025 in response to user input for project assistance.

Fig.6: ChatGPT (OpenAI). The Most Appealing Biophilic Design Elements. Generated on 20 Feb. 2025 in response to user input for project assistance.

Fig.7: ChatGPT (OpenAI). Which of the Following Biophilic Designs Do You Find Most Appealing (Select All That Apply) – University of Florida. Generated on 12 Jan. 2025 in response to user input for project assistance.

Fig.8: Thomson, Harshan. Gardens by the Bay, Singapore. CPG Corporation, https://www.cpgcorp.com.sg/images/blog/biophilic-design.jpg. Accessed 16 Jan. 2025.

Fig. 9: OpenAI’s DALL·E. A Modern, The Future with Biophilia. Generated on 12 Jan. 2025.

A small pedal stroke for a human, a giant leap for humankind

SHK Digital — Mon, 18 Aug 2025 10:25:32 +0000

Aryan Kumar, Johanna Hecht & Sara Marini

Hello! We are Aryan, Johanna and Sara from Lüneburg, Germany. We’ve been working together with Aurelia, Juan, Juliana, Karen, Milka and Neena from Gainesville, USA. Fun fact: this project was realized without us ever being all in one zoom room together.

Have you ever pedaled to your workplace or been grocery shopping by bike? The answer might vastly differ, depending on where you come from. In certain cultures, biking is part of people’s lives, in others an activity that only a minority is familiar with. In a rapidly changing world facing challenges of an unprecedented magnitude, biking could represent a staple for a better world. The health benefits of biking are undeniable and the contribution it can make to slowing down climate change is crucial. Biking hasn’t become as widespread as we wish it were. Yet. What are the reasons behind it? Why is it established practice in certain areas and completely absent in others? What makes a city truly bike-friendly? Is it the miles of bike lanes, the accessibility of bike-sharing services, or the safety measures in place? Perhaps it’s the cultural mindset that prioritizes sustainability and active living. We were intrigued to find out more and decided to conduct our project on the bike-friendliness of Lüneburg (Germany) and Gainesville (Florida).

In our research journey we investigated more tangible elements like infrastructure and laws, but also factors which are less obvious and harder to measure such as cultural attitudes. To structure our findings, we’re using the so-called iceberg model (see picture 1). Think of it like this: what we see on the surface – bike lanes, parking stations- is just the tip. Below that, follow more concealed factors such as laws and regulations. If we dive deeper, we can uncover social and cultural factors shaping biking habits. But enough about methodology: let’s jump right into the content: Whether you’re a biking enthusiast, a city planner, or just curious about sustainable urban living, join us as we pedal through the perspectives of Lüneburg and Gainesville. Let’s discover together, what makes a city truly bike friendly.

The locations

Close your eyes and feel the fresh air in your face. It’s raining lightly, but nobody seems bothered here. You are strolling through a city center paved by cobblestone, bikes are constantly passing by. You’re surrounded by beautiful red brick buildings, and you can hear some bells ringing. It’s a big medieval church in the historical neighborhood of the city. You are in Lüneburg, a charming town in Northern Germany with a long-standing biking culture.

Image 2: Caption: The wet cobblestone in the rainy Lüneburg

Aryan Kumar. (2022, April 5). City Center, Lüneburg [Photograph]. Personal collection

Now shake this picture away from your head and start to feel a warm breeze on your skin. You’re now surrounded by palm trees. It’s warmer here. Still, it rains even more than in Lüneburg. The streets are broader and busier. You hear the sound of laughter, students chatting and cars speeding by. You’re in the student city of Gainesville, a university city in the heart of Florida, USA. Younger than Lüneburg, yet already double its size and busting with life.

Now focus on the traffic around you. In Lüneburg it is quite easy to see bikes passing by. And, if you’re wondering: yes, also on cobblestone. While cobblestone isn’t the most comfortable terrain for biking, people in Lüneburg seem accustomed to it. In contrast, Gainesville is a car-dominated environment. The initial chats in the group of students already highlighted this difference. As we told them that it is normal for people here to bike to university, we could clearly see a glimpse of surprise on their faces. “Are you kidding?” Their eyes were giving their shock away. “It’s very hard to pedal back home after a full day at university.” We were surprised how different their perspective on biking was. These striking differences made the initial stages of the investigation ever more exciting.

Infrastructure: safety, accessibility and affordability of biking

The first factor we investigated was the actual infrastructure in the two cities. We imagined biking through a city without bike lanes. Would we still opt for a bike, or would we rather opt for driving a car or taking a bus? We can consider ourselves lucky in Lüneburg. The small city is covered by a quite dense network of bike lanes and also provides two public bike garages.

In Gainesville, bike lanes cover up to 25% of the city’s roads and are primarily concentrated along major roads across the city. The lanes in Gainesville help boost accessibility, but lack continuity. People in Gainesville highlighted how weather conditions might make it hard for people to bike, as no covered bike lanes exist.

Overall, a similar infrastructure has been detected in both cities; nevertheless, considering the smaller size of Lüneburg (about half of Gainesville), the German city seems to be, comparatively, better equipped than its American counterpart. Does being smaller make it easier?

Another big factor influencing the accessibility of biking are the opportunities to buy a bike. We counted a total of 8 shops in Gainesville as well as in Lüneburg. For those who don’t own a bike, sharing services complement the offer in both cities. The prices are not directly comparable, because prices in Gainesville are fix and depend on the time spend on the bike Lüneburg. Still, it seems like the bike sharing in Lüneburg offers better deals for students as the first 60 minutes per ride are free and if you commute inside of Lüneburg no distance exceeds that duration. Additionally, Lüneburg offers a self-help bike repair shop (Konrad) as well as “quick repair points” throughout the city. Similar offers exist in Gainesville, but to a much smaller extent.

Overall, Lüneburg seems to offer a denser network of bike lanes and a wider array of biking services. While the investigation into infrastructure offered insights into one important factor influencing biking, we didn’t stop here. Do you remember the iceberg model? It’s time to dive below the surface.

Underlying institutions: top-down policies and bottom-up initiatives promoting or hindering biking

The second big area we investigated were regulations and initiatives in both cities. Both cities, shared the same focus: Biker’s safety (you can consult the Lüneburg Radverkehrskonzept here). Still, due to limited time and expertise in legal matters, it wasn’t possible to assess to what extent the policies are implemented. While formal regulations definitely play an important role in promoting or hindering biking, we realized that there is at least another big force shaping the behavior of people within a certain context: informal institutions. These include initiatives, embodying recurring patterns of behavior, shared wishes and enabling collecting action. On this side, an interesting picture emerged. In Gainesville, efforts are primarily pushed by institutional initiatives. Programs like Bicycle Friendly America advocate for safe biking infrastructure nationwide, while the Alachua County Bicycle Pedestrian Master Plan is currently in the works, aiming to improve roadways for cyclists and pedestrians. Public meetings allow citizens to share their concerns, though tangible results may take years to materialize.

In Lüneburg, grassroots efforts play a major role. Organised rallies and events such as the Kidical Mass encourage family-friendly biking advocacy, while the Stadtradeln campaign collects anonymous data to make the local infrastructure better. Further initiatives such as Radentscheid and NUMP (Nachhaltiger Urbaner Mobilitätsplan) promote civic engagement, encouraging public dialogue and actionable solutions for improving bike safety and accessibility. The ADFC (Allgemeiner Deutscher Fahrrad-Club) further improves efforts by supporting bike-friendly policies across Germany.

Culture: the ultimate reason for all visible patterns?

Looking at the regulations and events underlying the infrastructure and services gave us more insight, but it still didn’t explain the differences in attitude. The two locations are too similar to be this different!

To complete the picture, we turned to the deepest level of our iceberg: culture. After hitting a stone wall with desk research, we decided to go straight to the source and adopt a hands-on approach: we prepared our own questions and hit the streets. Through interviews and data analysis, we aimed to investigate the cultural norms surrounding biking sought to uncover the key factors shaping attitudes toward cycling in these two cities. Our goal: talk to people and find out how they feel about biking. If you’re curious about the technical details of our interviews, follow this link. Collecting our own data on the ground was quite time- intensive, but provided invaluable insights into the cultural backdrop underpinning biking in these two areas, potentially influencing everything else we had discovered in our research.

In the first part of the interviews, we explored respondents’ actual commuting behaviors. In Lüneburg, 64% of the interviewees reported commuting by bike, citing reasons such as convenience, affordability, health benefits, and environmental friendliness. In contrast, the preferred commuting method in Gainesville appeared to be the car. Over half of the respondents in Gainesville did not even own a bike, and a striking 90% stated outright that they would never consider commuting by bike.

The second part of the interview investigating the associations that people have with biking in the two cities revealed a very interesting difference: while in Lüneburg nearly all respondents saw biking as a commuting option, nearly three quarters of interviewees in Gainesville associated biking with sport or recreational activity. The overall conclusion that we could draw from this phase of our research is that the vastly different biking behaviors in the two cities seem to be deeply rooted in people’s relationship with biking.

So what? Lessons learnt

After presenting these findings, one central question remains: what makes a city truly bike-friendly? The widespread use of bicycles in Lüneburg appears to be supported by all three layers we investigated: an extensive infrastructure, favorable policies and grassroots initiatives, and cultural perceptions that regard biking as an integral part of daily life.

While the interplay between infrastructure and cultural mindset is evident, understanding the causal relationship is far more challenging. Does better infrastructure shape the attitudes of residents, or is it a reflection of existing mindsets? Where is the most effective leverage point if we aim to transform the mobility sector? Should efforts focus on campaigns to shift public perceptions of biking, with the expectation that new policies and infrastructure will follow increased demand? Or should we prioritize investing in infrastructure, trusting that it will prompt a change in people’s values and habits?

Due to time constraints, our project could only scratch the surface of this complex and fascinating topic. However, one thing is certain: given the significant implications of transportation choices on air quality, noise pollution, and public health, understanding how to drive positive change toward more sustainable options like biking is more urgent than ever. In a world suffering under fossil fuel consumption and health diseases, shifting infrastructure, institutions, and cultural values surrounding biking really appears to be a stepping stone towards a more desirable future: a small pedal stroke for a human, a giant leap for humankind.

References

Alachua Countywide Bicycle Pedestrian Master Plan https://growth-management.alachuacounty.us/Planning/BikePedMasterPlan (07.03.2025)

Radentscheid Lüneburg. Sicheres Radfahren für alle. Für das Klima. Für Lüneburg. https://radentscheid-lueneburg.de/ (15.11.2024)

Stadtradeln. Lüneburg im Landkreis Lüneburg. https://www.stadtradeln.de/lueneburg (18.11.2024)

Hansestadt Lüneburg: Europäische Mobilitätswoche. https://www.hansestadt-lueneburg.de/_Resources/Persistent/e/4/b/7/e4b7ff541f7e9bccd5be8d46caa7c49146ab60b8/2024_Mobilit%C3%A4tswoche_Flyer-1.pdf (17.11.2024)

Hansestadt Lüneburg – Nachhaltiger Urbaner Mobilitätsplan. https://www.hansestadt-lueneburg.de/bauen-und-mobilitaet/mobilitaet/nump.html (12.11. 2024)

Hansestadt Lüneburg – Radverkehr. https://www.hansestadt-lueneburg.de/bauen-und-mobilitaet/mobilitaet/radverkehr.html (13.11.2024)

StadtRAD Lüneburg:

https://stadtradlueneburg.de (07.03.2025)

AStA Lüneburg:

https://www.asta-lueneburg.de/mobilitaet/stadtrad (07.03.2025)

Landkreis Lüneburg: Radverkehrskonzept für den Landkreis Lüneburg. https://www.landkreis-lueneburg.de/fuer-unsere-buergerinnen-und-buerger/mobil-im-landkreis/radfahren/radverkehrskonzept.html (13.11.2024)

Lünepedia: Kidical Mass. https://www.luenepedia.de/wiki/Kidical_Mass (18.11.2024)

New city roads to include bike lanes, safety measures for cyclists and. (2022). Gainesvillefl.gov. https://www.gainesvillefl.gov/News-articles/New-city-roads-to-include-bike-lanes-safety-measures-for-cyclists-and-motorists (07.03.2025)

Niedersachsen: Radverkehr in Niedersachsen. https://www.mw.niedersachsen.de/startseite/verkehr/radverkehr/radverkehr-15422.html (16.11.2024)

Interview outline

A) Demographics & actual use of car/bike

● Age / Profession

● Commuting: frequency, average time and preferred means of transportation

● Why do you use this means of transportation? [open answer]

● Do you have a car / a bike? → reasons why / why not

B) Deeper perception / values influencing that behavior

● (If they say that they mostly commute by car): Would you start commuting by bike? Why / why not?

● What are your first associations when you see people biking? Is it a sport? Is it a reasonable commuting option? Too poor to afford a car?

We all have to be somewhere

SHK Digital — Fri, 15 Aug 2025 10:10:51 +0000

Hello! We are Malou, Feisal and Nayama from the University of Leuphana, Germany, Aryanna, Diego, Peter, Lamia and Conner from the University of Florida, USA and Junaid from the Universidade Estadual Paulista, Brazil. We have been working together in the framework of our seminar culture, sustainability and intercultural communication virtual exchange project.

Fun fact: the majority of this project was written on trains.

Starting the journey – Malou, Feisal, Nayama

Every day, we all have places to be-work, school, or university. But how do we get there? Do we drive, take public transports, bike, or walk? Surprise, surprise… these are all questions related to mobility. These choices shape our routines and impact the environment. The transport sector contributes nearly 20% of total greenhouse gas emissions (World Economic Forum, n.d.), affecting air quality, land use, and ecosystems. Addressing these issues requires more sustainable transportation.

The United Nations define sustainable transport as safe, affordable, accessible, and environmentally friendly. Inspired by this, our multinational team explored how universities promote sustainable transport. Through surveys, interviews, and discussions, we uncovered how infrastructure, culture, and policies influence mobility—and how different institutions tackle this challenge.

We found significant variations. Some universities prioritize biking and public transport, while others struggle with accessibility and infrastructure. Government policies, incentives, and cultural attitudes shape these differences. Our findings reveal how much we can learn from each other’s successes and challenges.

In this blog, we’ll share what we’ve learned and why it matters—not just for getting to class, but for building a better future. Small changes in how we travel can make a big difference.

Navigating Lüneburg – Nayama

As I sit on the train to Hamburg courtesy of the ever-reliable Deutsche Bahn (German railway), writing this blog entry, I find myself reflecting on the different modes of transportation I rely on, including a ferry on one occasion, to get to my university. Through my train window, I see factory smoke curling up, a somber reminder of the price we pay everyday for our lifestyle. Yet, I feel grateful to reduce my impact in small ways, like many students at Leuphana University wh0 bike or take public transport. The campus is compact (0.189 km²) with 10,000 students, making sustainable mobility viable. The city itself is only 70.38 km² (Zahlen, Daten, Fakten, n.d.).

It makes me think of how Luneburg’s urban planning fosters bike-friendliness, walkability, and bus

connectivity. The university employs “push” factors (restrictions) such as limited vehicle access, bollards, and decentralized parking to discourage car use (Leuphana Nachhaltigkeitsbericht, 2022) (Mobilität, 2024).

Meanwhile, “pull” factors (incentives) include a Semester ticket, e-bike rentals (free for half an hour), charging stations, car-sharing options, bike repair stations on campus providing greener alternatives (Leuphana Nachhaltigkeitsbericht, 2022) (Mobilität, 2024).

It makes me wonder if this is influenced by Germany positioning itself as a pioneer in sustainability. National sustainability efforts, like the Deutschland ticket (affordable public transport) (The Deutschland-Ticket (n.d.)) and the National Cycling Plan (increasing bike use across the country) (National Cycling Plan 3.0. (n.d.)) probably influences Leuphana to implement mobility strategies that align with national goals. Lüneburg also benefits from the National Urban Mobility Policy (NUMP), which, supported by international frameworks, aims to develop integrated and inclusive mobility policies that align with the SDGs. It integrates sustainable transport strategies through data-driven planning, stakeholder engagement, and capacity-building activities (Changing Transport, 2020). Such efforts showcase how policy shapes student mobility choices.

This reminds me of yesterday’s chat with my friends about how the right systems can help make sustainable choices easier for everyone.

Navigating Gainesville – Malou

One of my friends shared their experience at the University of Florida, which, while different from my experience in Germany, shares some common themes. The UF campus is much larger than Leuphana, with a population comparable to that of Lüneburg. With more than 60,000 students in a city of 145,000 inhabitants, the campus plays an important role in Gainesville’s infrastructure. Getting from one seminar to another can be a challenge – not surprising when you consider that the main campus alone covers more than 8 km² and has over 1000 buildings (UF Facts n.d.). Recently, new crosswalks and pedestrian signage have made the campus more walkable, and electric scooters are available for rent, which can be used on the designated bike lanes (Alternative Transportation – TAPS, n.d.). This has even led some students to describe a „moped culture“ (Survey conducted, 2024), with many buying scooters to get from one class to another more quickly, as walking would take much more time due to the large distances.

But there is more: Gainesville offers 48 free bus lines for students, supported by real-time tracking via an app, making it easier to plan trips. However, cars are still a popular choice, despite frequent overcrowding in parking lots, many of which are reserved for staff. Students often use discounted car-sharing options instead.

In addition, future budget cuts could result in the removal of 36 buses (Williams, 2024), potentially making the system less reliable and less frequent. Given that about 76% of UF-students live off-campus (University of Florida Housing, 2020, p.2), this uncertainty may push them toward the convenience of personal vehicles instead. Nevertheless, UF, like Leuphana, is striving to implement sustainable transportation options, by offering the mentioned incentives, which are less costly in comparison to unsustainable transportation methods. Those can be argued to function as pull-factors in similar ways to the ones in Lüneburg.

Hearing about their experience made me curious about how mobility and sustainability are approached in the global south. For example, are there similar efforts to balance environmental goals with practical access to transportation in Brazil?

Navigating Presidente Prudente – Feisal

A friend from Brazil explained how things differ in comparison to Germany and the USA. Brazil heavily relies on fossil fuels, despite its 2012 National Urban Mobility Plan aimed at reducing environmental and socioeconomic costs. Transportation was also included in the constitution as a “social right”. Yet, public transport is underfunded, relying mainly on user tariffs that disproportionately affect low-income populations. Metro and Bus Rapid Transit expansions have improved accessibility, and ride-sharing apps offer affordable alternatives to taxis.

At the UNESP in Presidente Prudente, mobility is particularly challenging. Covering 0.41 km2 and serving 227,072 students, it is larger than UF and Leuphana. Public transport is unreliable, and the university offers no incentives for sustainable mobility. As a result, most students rely on private cars. Limited infrastructure and awareness further hinder sustainable choices.

Navigating Student Transportation Choices (Survey Insights) – Nayama

As I compared my discussion with my friends across the different universities, I realized that policy and infrastructure play a key role in mobility choices. What if we go a step further? Is it also influenced by personal habits and cultural perspectives? A survey of 55 students across three campuses showed that while many care about sustainability, practical factors like time and cost also shape their choices. Distance matters most—since most live within a mile, walking (38.2%) is the go-to option. Even those farther away prefer buses, trains, bikes, or e-scooters over cars. Students pointed out barriers like poor infrastructure, safety concerns, and limited public transport, but surprisingly, bad weather wasn’t a big issue—they simply adapted with umbrellas and rain jackets. Most students (74.5%) walk on campus, highlighting the need for pedestrian-friendly campuses.

Quite surprising was the mixed attitude toward sustainability itself. While nearly half (49.1%) use sustainable transportation daily, only 58.5% considered sustainability very important in their decisions, with some even ranking it as unimportant. Leuphana showed the most divided opinions, whereas students at UF and UNESP generally rated sustainability as somewhat important.

Students at Leuphana and UF rated their universities’ sustainability efforts as somewhat effective, while UNESP students leaned toward ineffective or neutral. Many respondents were unsure if their university had formal sustainability goals, highlighting a lack of awareness.

Navigating from Lüneburg to Gainesville to Presidente Prudente – Feisal

Through these discussions, I noticed both similarities and differences in mobility challenges. Public transport plays a vital role but remains unreliable in many places. Private cars and ride-sharing apps dominate Brazil and Florida, while biking and public transport incentives encourage greener choices in Lüneburg.

Sustainable transport depends on policy, infrastructure, and accessibility. While Leuphana and UF implement bike-sharing, electric vehicles, and free shuttles, UNESP lacks similar support due to financial constraints. Yet, all three universities face common struggles—such as inadequate infrastructure and continued reliance on fossil fuels.

Collaboration can drive change. If universities share best practices, they can learn from each other’s successes. Expanding public transit investment, improving walkability, and fostering institutional collaboration could accelerate sustainable mobility worldwide. The choices we make today shape tomorrow’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Our journey comes to an end – Nayama

As my train reaches Hamburg Central Station, I reflect on global mobility and sustainability. From Lüneburg’s bike-friendly streets to Gainesville’s tech-driven transit and Presdidente Prudente’s expanding metro, it’s clear that every city is working toward greener transport in its own way.

What strikes me most is the power of individual choices. At Leuphana, sustainable options are encouraged, making green choices easier. But as my friends and I discussed, no system is perfect—infrastructure gaps, policy limitations, and convenience factors all shape behavior. Learning about other universities’ efforts gives me hope. Every step forward, no matter how small, makes a difference.

While the challenges are global, so are the solutions. By sharing ideas and learning from each other, we can create change that extends far beyond our own campuses or cities. In the end, it’s about choosing to care. Choosing to walk instead of drive, cycle instead of taking a car, or advocating for better public transit. These small choices add up. As students, communities, and global citizens, we have the power to make sustainable transport the norm.

Let’s keep moving forward–together

Editing: Nayama, Feisal and Malou

Sources:

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Brüggen. (2024). Mobilität. Leuphana Universität Lüneburg. Retrieved from [https://www.leuphana.de/universitaet/nachhaltig/mobilitaet.html]

Changing Transport. (2020, December 2). National Urban Mobility Policies and Investment Programmes (NUMP) Guidelines – Changing Transport. Retrieved from [https://changing-transport.org/publications/national-urban-mobility-policies-and-investment-programmes-nump-guidelines/]

Delgado, F. C. M., & Bezerra, B. S. (2021). Subsidies for public passenger transport in Brazil—a sustainable mobility issue. Latin American Journal of Management for Sustainable Development, 5(2), 95-109.

History. (2024, June 30). Leuphana University Lüneburg. Retrieved from [https://www.leuphana.de/en/university/history.html]

Leuphana Universität Lüneburg. (2022, April). Nachhaltigkeits-Bericht 2022. Retrieved from [https://www.leuphana.de/fileadmin/user_upload/uniprojekte/Nachhaltigkeitsportal/Nachhaltigkeitsbericht/files/2022_Leuphana_Nachhaltigkeitsbericht.pdf]

Mobilität. (n.d.). Leuphana Universität Lüneburg. Retrieved from [https://www.leuphana.de/universitaet/nachhaltig/mobilitaet.html]

National Cycling Plan 3.0. (n.d.). BMDV – National Cycling Plan 3.0. Retrieved from [https://bmdv.bund.de/SharedDocs/EN/Articles/StV/Cycling/nrvp.html]

NUMP. (n.d.). Lüneburg. Retrieved from [https://www.hansestadt-lueneburg.de/bauen-und-mobilitaet/mobilitaet/nump.html]

Survey conducted (2024). Retrieved from [https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1_r4yVbrxTiA9BhzbpXNJFccnJSf8IJyxo69_-JJlnG8/edit]

The Deutschland-Ticket. (n.d.). Retrieved from [https://int.bahn.de/en/offers/regional/deutschland-ticket]

UF Facts. (n.d.). Ufl.edu. Last visited on 02.03.2025, from [https://news.ufl.edu/for-media/uf-facts/]

United Nations. (n.d.). Mobilizing Sustainable Transport for Development. Retrieved from [https://sustainabledevelopment.un.org/content/documents/12453HLAG-ST%20brochure%20web.pdf]

University of Florida Housing. (2020). University of Florida Housing Campus Master Plan, 2020-2030 Data & Analysis. Retrieved from [https://facilities.ufl.edu/wp-content/uploads/plan/2020-2030/data/Housing%20DandA%202020.pdf]

Williams, K. (2015, April 15). Proposed RTS cuts could impact future Gainesville, UF climate action plans. The Independent Florida Alligator. Retrieved from [https://www.alligator.org/article/2024/04/proposed-rts-cuts-could-impact-future-gainesville-uf-climate-action-plans]

World Economic Forum. (2022, June). Green transport and cleaner mobility are key to meeting climate goals. Retrieved from [https://www.weforum.org/stories/2022/06/green-transport-and-cleaner-mobility-are-key-to-meeting-climate-goals/]

Zahlen, Daten, Fakten. (n.d.). Lüneburg. Retrieved from [https://www.hansestadt-lueneburg.de/rathaus/zahlen-daten-fakten.html]

Photo references:

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3-8, 13-14: Produced by the project work.

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10. City of Gainesville. (2023, August 13). Gainesville’s RTS map with current routes as of July 28, 2023. The Gainesville Sun. Retrieved from [https://eu.gainesville.com/story/news/local/2023/08/13/gainesville-residents-concerned-over-elimination-of-campus-rts-routes/70463102007/]

11. UF Perks. (n.d.). RTS: UF students can ride RTS public transportation fare-free by presenting their Gator 1 card. [Photograph]. UF Perks. Retrieved from [https://ufperks.wordpress.com/transportation/]

12. UNESP. (n.d.). Retrieved from [https://www2.unesp.br/]

References

Brüggen (2024). Mobilität. Leuphana Universität Lüneburg. https://www.leuphana.de/universitaet/nachhaltig/mobilitaet.html

Leuphana Universität Lüneburg. (April 2022). NACHHALTIGKEITS-BERICHT 2022. In NACHHALTIGKEITS-BERICHT. https://www.leuphana.de/fileadmin/user_upload/uniprojekte/Nachhaltigkeitsportal/Nachhaltigkeitsbericht/files/2022_Leuphana_Nachhaltigkeitsbericht.pdf

Survey conducted (2024) https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1_r4yVbrxTiA9BhzbpXNJFccnJSf8IJyxo69_-JJlnG8/edit

The Deutschland-Ticket. (n.d.). https://int.bahn.de/en/offers/regional/deutschland-ticket

National Cycling Plan 3.0. (n.d.). BMDV – National Cycling Plan 3.0

NUMP. (n.d.). Lüneburg. https://www.hansestadt-lueneburg.de/bauen-und-mobilitaet/mobilitaet/nump.html

Changing Transport. (2020, 2. Dezember). National Urban Mobility Policies and Investment Programmes (NUMP) Guidelines – Changing Transport. https://changing-transport.org/publications/national-urban-mobility-policies-and-investment-programmes-nump-guidelines/

history. (2024, 30. Juni). Leuphana University Lüneburg. https://www.leuphana.de/en/university/history.html

Bing Maps. https://www.bing.com/maps?q=leuphana+size&FORM=HDRSC7&cp=53.228898%7E10.401099&lvl=17.1

Zahlen, Daten, Fakten. (o. D.). Lüneburg. https://www.hansestadt-lueneburg.de/rathaus/zahlen-daten-fakten.html

https://www.weforum.org/stories/2022/06/green-transport-and-cleaner-mobility-are-key-to-meeting-climate-goals/

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Delgado, F. C. M., & Bezerra, B. S. (2021). Subsidies for public passenger transport in Brazil-a sustainable mobility issue. Latin American Journal of Management for Sustainable Development, 5(2), 95-109.

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From Fashion Fiascos to Eco Chic: SharingOur Way to Sustainable Style

SHK Digital — Fri, 15 Aug 2025 09:18:13 +0000

ABOUT THE AUTHORS

Hey, I’m Isabella! I enjoy living in Lüneburg and being a part of sustainable development and progress right here at Leuphana.

Fun fact: If I don’t sell my used clothes online, I just give them to my mum. 9 out of 10 times, she loves them!

Hey, I’m Madalina! I’m also a student at Leuphana and focus on sustainability transformations in my studies.

Fun fact: I bought half of the clothes I currently own when I was in 7th grade.

Last Monday, worn out by the post-New Year’s Eve exhaustion, I resolved my first New Year’s resolution: I wanted to declutter my life. Armed with coffee in my left, and a trash bag in my right hand, I bravely faced my messy closet. After I opened the door, a red shirt landed in the yellow trash bag. As I continued looking through my wardrobe, a realization occurred: Half of my tossed-out clothes meant nothing to me. Skirts, dresses, and blouses accompanied the red shirt in the trash bag. Am I a victim of consumerism?

I shook my head to push away that (kind of scary) thought, but the cognitive dissonance set in. I’m a good, environmentally-aware person. Panic set in as I thought about all the money I wasted on my clothes. What would my neighbors say? The thought of having to do a walk of shame down our driveway, being watched by a judgy grandma, made me want to crawl back into my bed and abandon all my resolutions immediately. As my previous motivation turned into regret, I threw the bag on the floor and marched to my laptop. There must be another way to handle this. A way that a good and responsible person – like you and me – would choose.

BACKGROUND: THE ROOTS OF OVERCONSUMPTION

Overconsumption is a fundamental sustainability problem because it is intrinsically connected to the overuse of resources and the production of a lot of waste, but also to values, norms, and (consumer) behaviors in different societies and cultures. Fast Fashion is what you might call the poster child of this phenomenon. It is defined as “clothes that are made and sold cheaply so that people can buy new clothes often” (“Fast Fashion,” n.d.).

Consequently, out of the up to 100 billion new garments made globally each year, 92 million tons are thrown away (Igini, 2023). Let that sink in. At the same time, clothes or fashion are so much more than just fabric making up for our lack of fur – they are a means of expressing identity, belonging, culture, values… the list goes on (Mode Und Textilien, 2022).

It might seem like you cannot do much to solve this problem – and that isn’t entirely wrong. Still, there are local and relatively simple solutions where you can help make a difference – one of them being sharing your clothes. So having a closet filled with clothes you rarely wear doesn’t make you a bad (or at least unsustainable) person, it is your actions that matter. In this blog, we want to show you what that can look like in different places and cultures with different circumstances.

Take a second to think about your current hometown. Do you know what options there are when it comes to the reuse of clothing? Are there any sharing opportunities that you’re aware of? Most of the time, people are unaware of the local solutions available to them. This is why in the following paragraphs we’ll look at two locations: Lüneburg, Germany and Gainesville, US. As you will see in the following, these solutions and their differences illustrate the link between sustainability and culture. But don’t fear, this isn’t going to be a theoretical essay about concepts, definitions, and nomenclature. This is a blog that focuses on solutions and how they can help YOU actually make a big difference and contribute to sustainability.

PEEL BACK THE LAYERS: INSIDE ‚DIE ZWIEBEL‘ LÜNEBURG’S ONION OF CLOTHING SHARING!

Let’s start off by looking at Lüneburg. Lüneburg is a medieval town in the north of Germany that’s historically wealthy and future-oriented (it’s funded by the government and houses a university focusing on sustainability). This is important to keep in mind when looking at local solutions and comparing them to other places (within and beyond Germany). In Lüneburg, there are several secondhand shops – many of which use a donation model and needs-based pricing. However, these are not free of exchange or monetary logic and thus not of interest to us since we are focusing on sharing as a means of reusing clothing. Sharing is also quite common in Lüneburg: there is a gift shelf quite literally in my backyard and there are little wooden houses called “Fairteiler” (a wordplay on the word “verteilen”, which means to distribute and is pronounced the same as this neologism combining “fair” and “distribution”) that are set up for the sharing of food especially. Thus, there are different sharing practices and infrastructures at play: Some are informal (e.g., organized by members of the community in their own front yard), some formal (e.g., provided and maintained by the city), but also virtual (e.g., WhatsApp or Telegram groups). Since we are interested in sharing infrastructures for clothing, our options quickly narrow down.

Fig. 1 Standing in front of the building of the campus “RotesFeld” you can already peek inside the room the student initiative uses to facilitate sharing of clothes. (Picture by Madalina)

There is only one clothing-specific sharing institution in Lüneburg: Die Zwiebel (in English: The Onion). Seems kind of utopian and almost impossible in our capitalistic society. Don’t they have to make money to pay their bills? Even if they’re run by volunteers, there are still maintenance fees and other mumbo jumbo to consider, right? In the following paragraph, we’ll address these questions and take a closer look at how this solution works.

One of the main answers is that Die Zwiebel is run by a University initiative and located in a room at Leuphana University. Thus, their modelis supported by the university. This could potentially be a barrier for non-academics who might feel out of place there. Furthermore, it is based on a communal approach and trust basis: People sort the clothes themselvesand everybody is expected to leave the place in an organized and usable state.

Today, I decided to take a look at Die Zwiebel. Entering the room, the first thing I notice is the sheet posted on the door with a code of conduct indicating how the system works. The room is spacious and there are shelves filled to the brim with clothes, some quite organized, others rather messily thrown together. There are labels for organizing the clothes, but not all items are well sorted. Opposite an infographic about fast fashion and sustainability impacts is a small dressing room with a stool and mirror. I’m kind of overwhelmed by the amount of clothes. Some items actually look quite cute! But I’m not here to shop. The room certainly doesn’t look like a well-maintained and sorted secondhand shop, but if you’re willing to do some rummaging and change up your shopping routine, this solution works quite nicely.

GAINESVILLE’S CLOTHING CONUNDRUM: EXPLORING THE UPS AND DOWNS OF CLOTHING DRIVES AND FREE STORES!

My visit to Die Zwiebel gives me a good feeling. I leave with a sense ofhope, knowing that there are organizations that actually care about thesustainable reuse of clothing pieces and do something about it. On my wayback home, my phone rings. It’s George, my old American friend fromGainesville, Florida. After we talk about recent life and news, I share with him today’s dilemma. He is right on board: Buying used clothes belongs to the top three growing categories in the US market landscape,as it fulfills consumers’ requests for uniqueness, variety, and sustainability(World Economic Forum, 2019).

“Have you tried donating your clothes to Clothing Drives?” George asks. Donate. That sounds good – no time and effort involved, but a good feeling about myself included. Is that egoistic? He tells me that Clothing Drives are organized events, where people can drop off used clothing. They may take place in schools, offices, or local communities. The collected clothes are usually donated or sold to people in need, depending on the organization. This is not really a sharing institution, since Clothing Drives only organize the collection and used clothes have to be purchased, even if the price is lower. George tells me that this is the most popular form of getting rid of old clothes in the US. But… Wait! What happens to the clothes that are not sold? In fact, only 10-30% of the clothes given to charity are resold in stores (Franklin-Wallis, 2023). They are more likely to be sent overseas, just as Textile Recyclers like SMART (short for “Secondary Materials and Recycled Textiles”) do: This association sends about 45% of their received unwanted clothes to be re-sold in either the US or overseas (Strutner, 2021). Even though this may sound humble to you, think a bit further. Is it really responsible to send clothes through the whole cycle again? Sending clothes to other countries can really hurt the businesses that make clothes. This means people in those countries might lose their jobs and money. This is especially harmful to developing economies, and it just pushes the problem onto someone else!

“Aren’t there any local options?”, I ask George. As I just came back from my visit to Die Zwiebel, I’m interested in his perspective. He tells me about a free store down the street. Once every three months, they organize a free pop-up store. They not only take clothes but also toys or CDs. “How do they finance that? Is it fully voluntary?”, I’m wondering.

“The store has had some problems. I know they sometimes receive donations from the Civic Center, but they really need financial donations (Facebook, n.d.)”, George sounds disappointed. “It’s such a shame that local options are mostly not financially supported and not well known. Most places are maintained by the state. This is helpful because institutions are well-known and have a credible reputation. It makes it easier for people in need to locate. Moreover, it offers job opportunities”. He is right, organizations are more spread in the country and they probably receive more clothes. More clothes means more help for people in need. But for me, it also means that all clothes that don’t get sold might end up in the trash. Is this really a better solution?

PASSING THE THREADS: EMBRACING THE POWER OF CLOTHING SHARING FOR A SUSTAINABLE TOMORROW!

Let’s take a moment and go back to where we started: our journey took us from New Year’s resolutions and sorting out closets, to looking at pervasive overconsumption and the environmental impact of fast fashion, to exploring local solutions like the student initiative run DieZwiebel in Lüneburg, Germany and clothing drives and a free store in Gainesville, US. We saw that the intrinsic connection of these issues and solutions to deeply ingrained values and ideas highlights the complex relationship between sustainability and culture. However, the focus should not be on merely acknowledging this problem but on actively seeking and participating in sustainable solutions. Reuse based on a sharing model offers one of the most sustainable and practicable ways how you can make a difference (Sandin & Peters, 2018). But it’s a solution thatisn’t used by many people. How many of your clothes are used ones? Although – as you’re probably well aware – vintage clothes are in fashion, most of the time when we need clothes we opt for new. This is partly due to misconceptions and prejudice, such as concerns about hygiene which are simply false because, just like new clothes, used ones just have to be washed to be hygienic (Paço et al., 2020). This varies in different cultures. So the next time you’re sorting out your closet or need clothes, try to question your habits and see if you can make use of a more sustainable solution. Then you can actually make a big difference!

LIST OF FIGURES

FIGURE 1. VIEW INTO THE ROOM USED BY DIE ZWIEBEL, LOCATED IN THE LEUPHANA CAMPUS “ROTES FELD” BUILDING (PICTURE BY MADALINA)

FIGURE 2. SHELVES AND RACKS INSIDE DIE ZWIEBEL (PICTURE BY MADALINA)

FIGURE 3. CODE OF CONDUCT OF DIE ZWIEBEL (PICTURE BY MADALINA)

FIGURE 4. SHOE RACK (PICTURE BY MADALINA)

FIGURE 5. DRESSING ROOM (PICTURE BY MADALINA)

FIGURE 6. CLOTHES ON A RACK (PICTURE BY MIKE BIRD) RETRIEVED FROM HTTPS://WWW.PEXELS.COM/DE-DE/FOTO/NAHAUFNAHME-DER-KLEIDUNG-DIE-AUF-STOFF-HANGT- 250288/.

SUPERPARK

SHK Digital — Fri, 11 Jul 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Ein Serious Game Workshop zu verantwortungsvoller Prozessautomatisierung (RPA)

Im Rahmen der internationalen ISAGA-Konferenz , vom 16-18. Juli 2025 in Stuttgart, laden Britta Werksnis und Saskia Sterzl zum Workshop SUPERPARK ein – einem Serious Game, das im Teilprojekt DI-SZENARIO des DigiTaL-Verbundprojekts entwickelt wurde. Der Workshop richtet sich an Fachleute, Forschende und Interessierte, die sich mit den Herausforderungen und Potenzialen intelligenter Prozessautomatisierung (RPA) in komplexen Arbeitskontexten auseinandersetzen möchten.

Im Spiel SUPERPARK erleben die Teilnehmenden die Einführung von RPA in einem fiktiven, futuristischen Freizeitpark auf dem Planeten Supertopia. Sie übernehmen die Rolle von Automatisierungsexpert:innen, die Parkprozesse modernisieren und dabei einen verantwortungsvollen Umgang mit automatisierten Systemen und KI-Technologien sicherstellen müssen. Dabei gilt es, Effizienzsteigerung, soziale Auswirkungen und ethische Entscheidungsfindung in Einklang zu bringen.

Ziel des 90-minütigen Workshops ist es, die Teilnehmenden durch ein interaktives Lernformat für die komplexen Fragen rund um KI-Governance, Verantwortlichkeit und strategische Technologieeinführung zu sensibilisieren. Das Spiel wird durch gezielte Reflexionsphasen ergänzt, die den Transfer in reale Anwendungskontexte ermöglichen.

Der Workshop verbindet Gamification, interdisziplinäres Lernen und aktuelle wissenschaftliche Erkenntnisse zu einem innovativen Format, das sowohl zur Diskussion als auch zur Weiterentwicklung ethischer Standards in der digitalen Transformation anregt.

Weitere Informationen:

ISAGA Konferenz 2025

Projekt: DigiTaL

Teilprojekt 08: DI-SZENARIO

Entering the Multiverse of Methods

SHK Digital — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 13:00:00 +0000

Teaching Inter- and Transdisciplinary Methods Competencies

In June 2025, Subproject 4 undertook a three-day excursion to the Copernicus Institute for Sustainable Development, part of the University of Utrecht, to gain new perspectives on digital teaching practices and methodological training. With its strong focus on sustainability — similar to Leuphana — the Copernicus Institute provided an inspiring setting for exchange on how to address complex societal challenges using diverse methodological approaches.

During the visit, the team engaged in in-depth discussions with students, lecturers, and administrative staff about current challenges and innovative solutions in teaching sustainability. A key topic was the exploration of potential collaboration around the Sustainability Methods Wiki, an integrative and reflective platform designed to support researchers in developing methodological skills. The Wiki, launched in 2018, now hosts over 300 entries across various fields such as statistics, ethnography, GIS, and ecology, offering both practical guidance and critical reflections on the use of methods in sustainability research.

From Exchange to Action: Enhancing Teaching and Methodological Education

The exchange with Utrecht partners yielded valuable insights on advancing teaching quality, particularly regarding flipped classroom formats and inter- and transdisciplinary learning environments. The discussions particularly highlighted the need to navigate the tension between competition and cooperation among institutions, building solidarity among programs, and adapting teaching to evolving student narratives and needs.

Looking ahead, the team will implement feedback and best practices from the Copernicus Institute to further enhance the Wiki’s content and visibility, and to strengthen methodological education at Leuphana. This collaboration opens up promising opportunities for co-developing resources and joint initiatives that support the next generation of students and teachers.

Resonanz im Widerspruch

SHK Digital — Wed, 25 Jun 2025 13:04:48 +0000

Über kollaborative Praktiken im digitalisierten Studium

Wir laden ein zum Abschlussevent des Teilprojektes 3 „Dialogische und kooperative Praktiken im E-Portfolio stärken“.

Im Sinne von „Ausblick, Austausch, Ausklang“ diskutieren wir gemeinsam mit Kolleg:innen unserer Universität multiperspektiv zum Begriff der „Resonanz“ in der Hochschulbildung, um Beziehungen und Reflexion in pädagogischen Kontexten zu erörtern. Mitwirkende sind Prof. Dr. Harald Hantke, Barbara Hanusa, Dr.in Steffi Hobuss, Dr. Tilmann Wahne.

Portfolioarbeit als Raum für Resonanz und Zusammenarbeit

Gerade in Zeiten der digitalen Transformation der Gesellschaft verlangt das digitalisierte Studium im Sinne eines E-Learning by collaboration eine Unterstützung der Zusammenarbeit von Lehrenden und Lernenden sowie von Lernenden untereinander (Reinmann 2003). In diesem Teilprojekt stand insbesondere das kollaborative bzw. das soziale Miteinander unter den Lernenden, im Rahmen des individuellen Formats der phasenübergreifenden Portfolio-Arbeit, im Mittelpunkt des Interesses.

Um die Erfahrungen der Arbeit des Teilprojekts zu reflektieren, gestalten wir mit den Kolleg:innen eine Diskussionsveranstaltung, welche die „Resonanz“ des Pädagogischen in den Fokus nimmt.

Die Veranstaltung findet am 03.07.2025 von 16:00 Uhr bis 18:00 Uhr am Leuphana Campus in Raum C40.704 statt.

DigiTaL

Mehr als ‚Nice to Have‘: Warum Reflexion entscheidend für zukunftsfähige Lehre ist

Von Gitte Köllner

Warum Selbstreflexion die Zukunftsfähigkeit von Studierenden stärkt

Future Skills – mehr als ein Buzzword

Reflexion als Fundament

Zwei Formate: Deep Dives & Reflection Nuggets

Praxisbeispiel 1: Navigating the Future

Reflexion als roter Faden – Prozessbegleitende Verankerung im Seminar

Praxisbeispiel 2: Reflect & Envision

Einblicke in die Reflection Nuggets und Deep Dives

KI-Richtlinien

Unsere Learnings

Literaturverzeichnis

The earth’s guide to fashion

by Tessa and Svenja

Introduction – Tessa

Expert Interview – Tessa

“Most humans have a really shitty fashion sense. It hurts me to my core and makes me feel hot and cold at the same time” – Earth

Fashion Blog – Svenja

Conclusion – Svenja

University life – Sex, drugs and mental health

Basic Infos, just so you know

The Heavy Toll of Financial Stress on University Students

The Digital Pressure Cooker

The Social Media Effect: The Illusion of Perfection

What Social Media Breaks in Us: Student Voices

Solutions and Offers are the key

Turning Awareness into Action

Addressing Financial Stress: Making Higher Education More Accessible

Breaking the Social Media Comparison Cycle

Universities Must Prioritize Mental Health Resources

From Awareness to Action: What Needs to Happen Next?

Biophilic Design

Lüneburg

Now I am giving the ball to Gainesville

Gainesville

A big applause for our senior members and previously ugly cities!

Why Mental Health Should Be at the Core of Urban Recovery?

Sustainability: Finding Balance Between Progress and Preservation

The Future: Building Cities That Heal

References:

Image sources:

A small pedal stroke for a human, a giant leap for humankind

The locations

Infrastructure: safety, accessibility and affordability of biking

Underlying institutions: top-down policies and bottom-up initiatives promoting or hindering biking

Culture: the ultimate reason for all visible patterns?

So what? Lessons learnt

We all have to be somewhere

Starting the journey – Malou, Feisal, Nayama

Navigating Lüneburg – Nayama

Navigating Gainesville – Malou

Navigating Presidente Prudente – Feisal

Navigating Student Transportation Choices (Survey Insights) – Nayama

Navigating from Lüneburg to Gainesville to Presidente Prudente – Feisal

Our journey comes to an end – Nayama

Let’s keep moving forward–together

From Fashion Fiascos to Eco Chic: SharingOur Way to Sustainable Style

Hey, I’m Isabella! I enjoy living in Lüneburg and being a part of sustainable development and progress right here at Leuphana.

Fun fact: If I don’t sell my used clothes online, I just give them to my mum. 9 out of 10 times, she loves them!

Hey, I’m Madalina! I’m also a student at Leuphana and focus on sustainability transformations in my studies.

Fun fact: I bought half of the clothes I currently own when I was in 7th grade.

BACKGROUND: THE ROOTS OF OVERCONSUMPTION

PEEL BACK THE LAYERS: INSIDE ‚DIE ZWIEBEL‘ LÜNEBURG’S ONION OF CLOTHING SHARING!

GAINESVILLE’S CLOTHING CONUNDRUM: EXPLORING THE UPS AND DOWNS OF CLOTHING DRIVES AND FREE STORES!

FIGURE 1. VIEW INTO THE ROOM USED BY DIE ZWIEBEL, LOCATED IN THE LEUPHANA CAMPUS “ROTES FELD” BUILDING (PICTURE BY MADALINA)

FIGURE 2. SHELVES AND RACKS INSIDE DIE ZWIEBEL (PICTURE BY MADALINA)

FIGURE 3. CODE OF CONDUCT OF DIE ZWIEBEL (PICTURE BY MADALINA)

FIGURE 4. SHOE RACK (PICTURE BY MADALINA)

FIGURE 5. DRESSING ROOM (PICTURE BY MADALINA)

FIGURE 6. CLOTHES ON A RACK (PICTURE BY MIKE BIRD) RETRIEVED FROM HTTPS://WWW.PEXELS.COM/DE-DE/FOTO/NAHAUFNAHME-DER-KLEIDUNG-DIE-AUF-STOFF-HANGT- 250288/.

SUPERPARK

Ein Serious Game Workshop zu verantwortungsvoller Prozessautomatisierung (RPA)

Entering the Multiverse of Methods

Teaching Inter- and Transdisciplinary Methods Competencies

From Exchange to Action: Enhancing Teaching and Methodological Education

Resonanz im Widerspruch​

Über kollaborative Praktiken ​ im digitalisierten Studium​

Portfolioarbeit als Raum für Resonanz und Zusammenarbeit

Resonanz im Widerspruch

Über kollaborative Praktiken im digitalisierten Studium