Pillar 1:
Ecological transition in the field of culture

Priority 9:
Training our staff and local actors on biodiversity and ecological issues

Starting in 2021, every summer, the city of Essen celebrates the Gutes Klima Festival, an event co-organised by the city and a broad civil society alliance. It combines climate protection, resource conservation and social cohesion while showing visitors concrete ways to incorporate sustainability into their daily lives. This is done through hands-on activities, information stands and workshops that consider sustainability holistically, including its ecological, social, and cultural perspectives.  

On the environmental side, reducing resource consumption is one of its key priorities. The festival minimises its impact by using materials thoughtfully, avoiding waste through reusable and sustainable solutions, and relying entirely on renewable energy. Climate-friendly mobility is also encouraged to reduce CO2 emissions and is achieved by providing secure cycling parking, discounted public transport tickets, promoting carsharing, and ensuring the festival site is car-free.  

The festival has a strong social mission: aiming to remove barriers to culture and education so that sustainability can be experienced by everyone. To achieve this, entrance to the festival is free and accessible, with inclusive measures for all visitors, low-threshold activities, and various participatory formats that make it possible for people of all ages and backgrounds to participate.