You may not think about the resources used in its production when you enjoy a cup of your favorite coffee, but coffee is more than a beverage; it represents a sophisticated global economy with significant environmental impacts. The amount of water it takes to make a cup of coffee is an important factor that is often ignored. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the hidden costs and examine how many liters of water are required to make your daily brew.
A cup of your favorite coffee can go a a long way in making you feel refreshed on a hectic day.
The water journey in coffee production
Understanding the complex supply chain involved in coffee production is critical to understanding the beverage’s water impact. Planting and caring for coffee plants are the first steps in growing coffee. When the coffee cherries are ready, they are picked, prepared, roasted, and finally brewed into the fragrant beverage we all enjoy. Water is an essential resource because it is involved in every step of the process:
1.Cultivation:
Coffee plants need a lot of water to grow. Typically, the agricultural process takes place in areas with irrigation systems or moderate to high rainfall levels. The typical amount of water required by coffee plants per kilogram of coffee cherries is 2,500 liters. The soil should also have good drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can be detrimental to the plants. In addition to water, coffee plants thrive in regions with specific temperature and altitude conditions. Coffee is usually grown in tropical climates with temperatures between 15 and 24 degrees Celsius. The altitude of the growing area is critical, with most coffee plantations located between 2,600 and 1,800 meters above sea level, contributing to the development of the unique flavors associated with coffee grown at high altitudes. Coffee plants also require adequate sunlight for healthy growth. This is where an agroforestry system can be implemented. When coffee grows under the canopy of taller trees, the trees provide the shade needed to protect the delicate coffee cherries from the sun’s harsh rays. This agroforestry practice not only benefits the coffee plants, but also promotes biodiversity and environmental sustainability.
2.Processing:
After harvesting, coffee cherries undergo a processing stage. There are two main processes: the wet process and the dry process.
Wet process: In this technique, the outer skin of the cherry is removed and left to ferment in water for a while. The water is necessary to wash away the mucilage that coats the beans during fermentation. The wet method requires between 38 and 42 liters of water to produce one kilogram of coffee.
Dry process: In this technique, the coffee cherries are spread out in the sun to dry. Although, this method uses much less water than the wet process, a small amount of water is still needed in the initial washing stage to remove any impurities or debris. The dry technique requires about 1-2 liters of water to process one kilogram of coffee.
3.Roasting and brewing:
The coffee beans are heated to a high temperature during the roasting process. Although, water plays less of a role in this process, it is critical when it comes to brewing the roasted coffee beans. The amount of water needed for brewing is determined by a number of variables, including the desired strength, the brewing process, and personal preference. A typical cup of coffee requires between 100 and 200 milliliters of water.
To calculate the total water footprint of a cup of coffee, we must consider all the water used in the production cycle, including irrigation, processing, and indirect water use, in order to calculate the entire water footprint of a cup of coffee. Research suggests that it takes an average of 140 liters (37 gallons) of water to produce a single cup of coffee. However, this value can change based on a number of variables, including the type of coffee, farming techniques, processing techniques, and even the region in which the coffee is grown.
Sustainable practices to minimize water impact of coffee
While the complexity of the industry makes it difficult to estimate the exact water footprint, it is important to understand the environmental impact and promote sustainable practices. As a result, programs and practices are in place to minimize water impacts. Some examples include:
Irrigation systems and technologies that use less water: the use of drip irrigation or precision agriculture techniques (like sensor-based irrigation systems) can help maximize water use in coffee farming. These systems use real-time data to optimize water delivery, ensuring that plants receive the precise amount of water they need, thereby minimizing waste.
Utilization of water-efficient coffee varieties: research and development efforts are underway to breed coffee plants that are more resilient to water scarcity. By cultivating and promoting the use of water-efficient coffee varieties, farmers can contribute to water conservation in coffee production.
Education and training programs: providing education and training to coffee farmers on water-efficient agricultural practices and sustainable water management can play a crucial role. Empowering farmers with knowledge about water conservation strategies ensures the long-term viability of coffee production while preserving water resources.
Environmentally friendly processing technologies can reduce the amount of water used during the manufacturing phase. These methods are being developed and promoted.
Responsible brewing: Minimizing the amount of water used while making coffee helps reduce resource use. Making the right brewing decisions, such as avoiding excessive water waste and selecting efficient brewing tools, can have an impact.
Promote water conservation throughout the supply chain by purchasing coffee from companies that are committed to sustainability and environmental responsibility. Here, certification can play a role. Certifications often include criteria related to environmental sustainability, including water management practices, and can guide consumers toward environmentally friendly coffee options.
Consumer awareness campaigns for coffee play a crucial role in educating and informing coffee enthusiasts about various aspects of the coffee industry, from ethical sourcing practices to health benefits and sustainability initiatives. It can have a significant impact on shaping purchasing behaviors and fostering a more informed and conscientious coffee culture.
So we, as consumers, can do our part by supporting coffee farmers who are committed to water-efficient farming and processing practices and advocating for transparency in the coffee supply chain, including information on where the coffee comes from and how it’s produced. In addition, minimizing our own water footprint when making coffee at home can help reduce the overall water footprint of our favorite morning habit. More simply, we can promote a more sustainable and environmentally responsible coffee culture by also appreciating the water that goes into a typical cup of this delicious beverage.
Authors enjoying a cup of coffee. Image credit: Arief Lagoina.
Let’s enjoy our coffee with a mindful awareness that our choices possess the power to preserve this invaluable resource and safeguard the environment for generations to come…
by Arief Lagoina (Indonesia), Délice Muhoza (Burundi), Guillermo Vizarreta (Peru), Sumaiyya Saleem (Pakistan), Minh Hoang (Vietnam) – Participants of the 46th UNEP/UNESCO/BMUV International Postgraduate Course on Environmental Management for Developing Countries.
Sustainable transportation has gained immense importance in an era where environmental concerns have taken center stage. Green and clean mobility can be achieved through cycling, which has emerged as an attractive option. Worldwide, cycling has captured the hearts of people due to its numerous benefits for both the individual and the planet. It is an inexpensive and environmentally friendly mode of transportation that requires no fuel and helps reduce air pollution. Cycling also promotes physical fitness and reduces stress. Ultimately, it is a great way to enjoy nature and explore the world around us. Looking at why cycling has become a symbol of sustainable transportation will open our eyes to its beauty.
Promoting sustainable transportation through cycling requires a multi-faceted approach that includes urban planning, policy changes, infrastructure development, public awareness campaigns, and individual choices. By embracing cycling as a viable mode of transportation, communities can reduce their environmental footprint, improve public health, and create more livable and vibrant urban spaces.
Cycling is highly encouraged and well integrated into the transportation system in Germany. The country has made significant efforts to promote cycling as an eco-friendly and healthy mode of transportation. Comparing cycling between Dresden, Germany, Santa Cruz, Bolivia, and Bangkok, Thailand, involves examining various factors such as infrastructure, cultural norms, policies, and overall cycling culture. Please note that these two Global South countries are diverse with significant differences, so this comparison will provide a general overview rather than specific details about each country.
The bicycle does not understand nationalities; it accepts everyone equally. It could be said to be the most democratic mode of transport. It creates value for society not only in terms of mobility but also in terms of habitability, sustainability, health, sociability, gender integration, etc. Moreover, a bicycle not only benefits those who pedal its wheels but also extends its positive impact to others.
Here are some key points to consider when discussing sustainable transportation through cycling:
1. Infrastructure
Germany: Germany is known for its well-developed cycling infrastructure, including dedicated bicycle lanes, cycling paths, and bicycle-friendly roads. The Dresden cycling infrastructure design has the main characteristics of the most significant elements of the public road. It can be distinguished between the bicycle lanes, the priority lanes for bicycles (lanes marked red), bicycles as guest areas, and zones of cars as guests, of these last two, it is recommended to limit the circulation speed. To calm traffic, in addition to reducing speed limits, changes must be made to the infrastructure, such as those curbs that have been called devilish.
Bolivia: Infrastructure for cycling varies widely across cities. Some cities have started to invest in cycling infrastructure, while others may have limited or underdeveloped cycling lanes and facilities. In Santa Cruz de la Sierra, the cycling infrastructure is comparatively developed, consisting of dedicated bicycle lanes and paths that are separated from the motor traffic, promoting cycling as a safe mode of transportation.
Thailand: Between 2014 and 2016, Bangkok initiated a project aimed at constructing 48 bicycle paths covering a total distance of 298 kilometers. These paths were categorized into six different types:
1. Road Surface Path
2. Sidewalk Path
3. Road-Sidewalk Joint Path
4. Bicycle Path on the Shoulder
5. Specialized Bicycle Path
6. Bicycle Paths within Parks
However, the utilization of these bicycle paths has fallen short of expectations due to several challenges:
Parking Conflicts: Many bicycle paths have been utilized as parking spaces due to their shared characteristics with regular lanes. This is prevalent in commercial districts where development has disregarded the intended purpose of these paths.
Legal Shortcomings: Inadequate legal measures have hindered the resolution of these issues, despite these lanes being designated as ‘specialized bicycle lanes’ separated from the main road.
Lack of Network Development: The creation of a comprehensive network of bicycle routes has not been realized yet.
Unsuitable Infrastructure: The area’s infrastructure is ill-suited for bicycle usage due to challenges such as negotiating road intersections, inadequate parking facilities, insufficient lighting, and obstructions.
To address these challenges, Bangkok will undertake a pilot initiative to develop bicycle-friendly zones, focusing on areas equipped with dedicated bicycle lanes disconnected from the main road system. The plan for this initiative is as follows:
Bicycle-Road Crossings: All bicycle crossings will be transformed into pedestrian crossings. They will be elevated to a flat-topped speed hill level, and a pavement will be added based on the suitability of the area. Addressing obstructions like trees and signs that hinder cyclists’ visibility will be prioritized. Installing speed limiters and clear warning signs for motorists and pedestrians will be integral. Enhanced road signage and additional lighting will improve safety.
Crosswalks: Pedestrian crossings compatible with bicycles and adapted to the local surroundings will be designed. Existing overpasses will be upgraded by incorporating rail trenches. Other crosswalks will be evaluated and enhanced to meet universal safety standards, ensuring safe passage for everyone.
Road Surface Enhancement: Road surfaces will be enhanced for a smoother experience, addressing issues like water pipe caps and road markings. Proper drainage systems with V-groove reflective pins and other safety features will be incorporated.
Bicycle Parking: High-quality, secure bicycle parking facilities integrated with public transportation options and adjacent commercial zones, like shopping malls and shops, will be established. Furthermore, collaboration with local stakeholders will ensure comprehensive support.
Comprehensive Bicycle Paths: A comprehensive network of cycle paths across all streets, connecting different parts of the city and creating a cohesive bicycle route system, will be developed.
By focusing on these improvements and addressing the issues that have hindered bicycle path utilization, Bangkok aims to foster a more bicycle-friendly environment that promotes cycling as a viable mode of transportation. This approach will not only encourage sustainable mobility but also enhance the overall urban experience for residents and visitors alike.
2. Cultural Norms
Germany: Cycling is a popular mode of transportation in Germany. It’s seen as a normal and practical way to get around, even for longer distances. The cultural acceptance of cycling in Dresden contributes to its popularity. There is a dedicated, mostly paved, multi-use path along both sides of the Elbe River, mainly heading east from the city center. The north side is lusher and greener, while the south side has several tourist spots, such as the ferry. In addition, a part of the public transportation system can be used for a 5-minute crossing. Interestingly, in Dresden, cycling infrastructure is made more meaningful by combining it with memorials such as painted white bikes, also called as ghost bikes, that intrigue the riders on their journey.
Bolivia: Cycling culture varies across the country. In some cities, cycling might be more associated with leisure or sport than daily transportation. However, after the pandemic, cycling is gaining popularity as a sustainable mode of transportation. In Santa Cruz de la Sierra, cultural norms related to transportation could influence the perception of cycling as a feasible choice for daily commuting or recreation.
The overall cycling culture in Santa Cruz is influenced by local events, clubs, advocacy groups, and individual preferences. A strong cycling culture can promote community engagement, events like group rides, and initiatives to raise awareness about cycling’s benefits. The presence of cycling-related businesses, repair shops, and bicycle-sharing programs can also indicate a growing cycling culture.
Thailand: In the past, Thailand had a strong cultural tradition of using bicycles for transportation. However, with the passage of time, the popularity of this practice has waned. Nevertheless, the contemporary era has witnessed a growing trend toward environmental preservation and mitigating the ecological issues stemming from car usage and fossil fuel consumption. These problems, notably air and noise pollution, have spurred a desire for change among a significant portion of the population.
Many individuals are now inclined towards adopting bicycles as a mode of transportation as well as for recreational and exercise purposes. This shift in mindset reflects a collective aspiration to contribute positively to the environment while embracing healthier and more sustainable lifestyle choices. As awareness of environmental concerns deepens and the realization of the impact of individual actions gains traction, the resurgence of bicycles as a preferred means of getting around stands as a promising step toward a greener and cleaner future.
3. Safety
Germany: Germany is known for its high safety standards for cyclists. Infrastructure is designed to keep cyclists safe, and drivers are generally respectful of cyclists on the road.
Bolivia: Safety for cyclists in Bolivia can be a concern due to varying infrastructure quality, traffic congestion, and differing attitudes towards cyclists on the road. Santa Cruz is working to improve cyclist safety, as they need to feel secure while riding on roads alongside motor vehicles. Effective safety measures, such as proper signage, designated bicycle lanes, and public awareness campaigns, can contribute to creating a safer environment for cyclists.
Thailand: Bicycle safety in Thailand remains a concern, largely due to the considerable volume of cars on the road. The existing state of bicycle paths also necessitates improvements to enhance safety conditions. However, there’s an encouraging trend of increasing bicycle usage despite these challenges. Looking forward, there is a strong desire for the formulation of comprehensive policies aimed at promoting bicycle use and bolstering confidence in its safety.
As more individuals embrace cycling as a viable mode of transportation, the need for a safer cycling environment becomes paramount. The eventual establishment of well-defined guidelines and policies is crucial in fostering a culture of bicycle safety. These policies should encompass not only infrastructure improvements, such as well-maintained bicycle paths and cyclist-friendly road designs, but also educational initiatives that inform cyclists and motorists alike about sharing the road responsibly.
By addressing these concerns and implementing effective policies, Thailand can aspire to create a future where bicycles are a trusted and secure mode of transportation. This transition not only aligns with the global trend toward sustainable mobility but also reflects a commitment to prioritizing the well-being of both individuals and the environment.
Challenges
Germany: While Dresden has made great strides in promoting cycling, challenges still exist, such as issues with bike theft and the need for continued investment in infrastructure.
Bolivia: Challenges in Santa Cruz can include the need for more investment in cycling infrastructure, changing attitudes towards cycling as a viable mode of transportation, and addressing safety concerns.
Thailand: Promoting the utilization of bicycles in Thailand comes with its fair share of challenges. These include the need for substantial investments in building adequate bicycle lanes, ensuring traffic safety for cyclists, incentivizing a higher number of people to opt for bicycles, and launching effective campaigns to encourage wider bicycle adoption.
1. Infrastructure Investment: Constructing well-designed and comprehensive bicycle lanes necessitates significant investments in urban planning and development. These lanes should be seamlessly integrated into the existing road network, prioritizing safety and convenience for cyclists.
2. Traffic Safety: Ensuring the safety of cyclists within the existing traffic ecosystem is a primary concern. This entails creating cyclist-friendly road designs, implementing measures to prevent accidents, and raising awareness among motorists about sharing the road harmoniously with cyclists.
3. Incentives for Cycling: To encourage more individuals to choose bicycles over other modes of transportation, the introduction of incentives can be influential. These incentives might include tax breaks, subsidies for bicycle purchases, or discounts on public transportation fares for those who cycle to transit stations.
4. Awareness Campaigns: Effective public awareness campaigns play a pivotal role in shifting cultural attitudes towards cycling. Promotional initiatives can spotlight the health benefits, environmental advantages, and cost-effectiveness of using bicycles. These campaigns should target a wide demographic sample of the population to garner broader support.
By proactively addressing these challenges, Thailand can pave the way for a bicycle-friendly environment that not only enhances sustainable mobility but also contributes to healthier lifestyles and a cleaner environment. A multi-faceted approach that encompasses infrastructure, safety, incentives, and public engagement will be instrumental in fostering a successful bicycle promotion initiative.
In conclusion, cycling as a sustainable mode of transport is more established and integrated into daily life in Germany than in many countries of the Global South. However, some Bolivian and Thai cities are making efforts to improve cycling infrastructure and promote cycling as a practical and environmentally friendly mode of transport. The success of cycling as a sustainable mode of transport depends on several factors, including infrastructure development, cultural acceptance, government policies, and safety considerations. A holistic approach that addresses these factors can help create cities where cycling is not only a practical, sustainable mode of transportation, but also a vibrant part of the urban culture. At the individual level, by embracing the bicycle as your trusted steed, you become a silent catalyst for positive change. The wheels beneath you become agents of transformation, curbing pollution and ushering in a sustainable future. Your choice to pedal instead of pollute resonates far beyond your individual journey, rippling through the fabric of society and inspiring others to follow.
A bicycle feels like a universal resonance of freedom. It produces benefits for those who travel by bicycle and those who do not, by freeing up space and reducing air and noise pollution.
The blog authors – Mariela Peña from Bolivia and Manop Kaewfoo from Thailand at the Blaues Wunder, Dresden. Photo Credits: (Arief Lagoia)
Our Dresden anecdote
Farewell to you, accompanied by a charming anecdote from our delightful cycling escapade through Dresden, Germany. Our hope is that this tale will ignite a spark within you to plan your very own cycling adventure. Navigating Dresden and its outskirts on two wheels is an experience of utmost security and ease. The enchanting journey led us along the serene banks of the Elbe River, where we marveled at the architectural masterpieces, sculptures, gardens, trees, and the tapestry of daily life.
Venturing into the rural expanse, we pedaled through barley fields, pastures, and orchards, embracing the tranquility of the countryside. In the winter of 2023, armed with our trusty CIPSEM bicycles, we embarked on a cycling expedition to the splendid Great Garden. Here, amidst blooming flowers, we delved into the intricacies of ecosystem services and hydraulic systems. A moment of reverent pause awaited us as we gazed upon the majestic Bismark Column, standing sentinel near the CIPSEM facility.
With the advent of late spring in May, our wheels covered a distance of 8 km to the vibrant rapeseed field. Inviting fellow enthusiasts to join us, we conquered challenging inclines that rewarded our determined efforts with vistas that took our breath away. At the summit, a refreshing breeze and the fragrant whispers of spring welcomed us, encapsulating the serenity of Dresden’s outskirts. And as nature’s law dictates, what goes up must descend; thus, we commenced our homeward journey.
Under the cloak of night, adrenaline surged as we descended downhill, guided by the dance of lights that signaled each move – a symphony of caution and exuberance, proclaiming, “Your safety is paramount.”
A visual glimpse into our adventure
A sunset at the Elbe River in Dresden, (Photo Credits: Manop Kaewfoo)
Left: Mariela at the Bismarcksäule, Right top: Großer Garten in winter season, Right bottom: Hydraulic systems, (Photo Credits: Manop Kaewfoo )
Left top: Route to Rapeseed field, Top center: At the Rapeseed field, Right top: The unique paved path with the wide field of meadows in winter season, Bottom: Riders bn the way to the Rapeseed field (Minh-Vietnam, Vaibhav-India, Mariela-Bolivia, Omobayo-Benin and Manop-Thailand) Photo Credits: (Manop Kaewfoo)
Left: The Red Poppy Team, Arief, Mariela and Manop (Photo Credits: A Vietnamese tourist) Right top and bottom: The red poppies, (Photo Credits: Manop Kaewfoo)
by Mariela Peña (Bolivia) and Manop Kaewfoo (Thailand) – Participants of the 46th UNEP/UNESCO/BMUV International Postgraduate Course on Environmental Management for Developing Countries.
While calling it a day, I am reflecting on the thought-provoking sessions at CIPSEM which discussed the alarming environmental problems exacerbating climate change. Climate change is currently among the most pressing environmental issues that our planet is facing. Scientific evidence shows that the Earth’s climate is changing at an unprecedented rate, largely as a result of human activities. CIPSEM is playing a great role in arranging these sessions which are good to initiate critical thinking about how big the problem is (although research says the problem is really big) and what to do (although research says the solutions are manyfold and all require financial means).
As I write this piece, I am reminded of a scene from the movie Avatar (2009) where the protagonist, Jake Sully, after being discredited, tries to get higher in the sky above Toruk (the great leonopteryx) to control it and becomes Toruk Makto.
Sometimes your whole life boils down to one insane move to test a theory.
In this case, the theory was that Toruk, being the largest and biggest leonopteryx, would not care about things flying above it.
So, when the problem is complex and vast, we need to broaden our perspective to solve the problem. The broadening of perspective becomes more important especially when the problem is related to the Earth itself.
Ironically, instead of addressing the root cause of the problem, we often settle for symptomatic solutions. Thus, shrinking the focus and perspective. This narrowing of the focus is also very visible in the evolution of our societies that moved from a collective family-oriented mentality to a narrow definition of family. In the Indian context, we have moved from the very primitive philosophy (Sanatan) of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” which means Earth (Vasudha) is One (Aiva) Family (Kutumb) to “Veer Bhogya Vasudha” which means Earth (Vasudha) belongs (Bhogya) to Strong (Veer) in the mediaeval period and finally to the definition of family as per:
Oxford Dictionary: a group of one or more parents and their children living together as a unit
Cambridge Dictionary: a group of people who are related to each other, such as a mother, a father, and their children.
Merriam-Webster Dictionary: the basic unit in society, traditionally consisting of two parents rearing their children.
The 3Cs: Consciousness, Compassion and Creation
As an observer of nature, societal development, and curious about spirituality, I see this transition broadly from the perspective of Consciousness, Compassion and Creation (3Cs). I borrowed these three terms from the three major philosophies of Hinduism (Sanatan) in India: Shiv, Vishnu and Brahma.
Shiv is the Consciousness that guides the energy in the whole system and is also responsible for the change of activities in the system, Vishnu is the Compassion that sustains momentum and interdependencies of activities in the system and Brahma is the Creation that introduces new activities into the system.
In nature, these three exist in perfect harmony. Disturbing this balance disturbs the whole entropy in nature as a system consisting of living species, non-living elements, earth, climate, water and many more. This means that for a balanced development, we need the 3Cs to be in complete harmony. Leaving even one C will result in an unbalanced development.
Human beings, as another living species, are also a part of the natural system and so thus the human society.
Disturbance in 3Cs
Thus, the problem of today’s earth, disturbance in the entropy of the natural system, is the result of unbalanced development where all the 3Cs are not in harmony. In the initial phase of modern development, creation seemed obvious and beneficial for societal development, but consciousness and compassion were dominated by creation.
Now, in the present scenario, to some extent consciousness about nature is increasing while carrying out creation, however compassion is missing. So, unless we learn to keep the 3Cs in harmony, we may struggle in solving the problems of the present time.
Education in the present scenarios helps to achieve awareness (Consciousness), which is very important to act in a certain direction. However, the same “shrinking” transition from broad to narrow focus can also be observed in the education system. In India, this system has moved from the broad “Gurukul Sabhyata” with flexible and nature-based learning (covering all the 3Cs) to a narrow “standardised school system” with rigid and text-based learning (covering only one or two Cs). Thus, structural learning has almost replaced behavioural learning and the focus has changed from one’s overall development to training the masses in a certain specific way.
Therefore, this transition from 3Cs to two or one C needs to be carefully analysed and calculated.
We need to think that to what extent we can shrink our focus and disturb the entropy of the system in the veil of development.
For me, the solution to the present problem lies in the history of societal development along with the education system. It’s very important to achieve harmony within the system. We must restructure the education system to incorporate all 3Cs to promote the development of a balanced society. This includes creating environmental consciousness, fostering compassion through interaction with nature, and facilitating creation through field activities. Small initiatives like waste segregation at the school level or student-based gardening can help reconnect society with nature and restore the balance between 3Cs.
It is also crucial to take collective measures at individual, societal, national and international level with a futuristic approach to balance the 3Cs through self-awareness, social boundations, policy changes and international agreements respectively.
Sometimes going back to achieve harmony is the only way forward.
by Vaibhav Aggarwal (India) – Participant of the 46th UNEP/UNESCO/BMUV International Postgraduate Course on Environmental Management for Developing Countries.
With the “Decade of Action” with more than 100 acceleration actions announced towards achieving the SDGs, also the “43rd UNEP/UNESCO/BMU International Postgraduate Course on Environmental Management” started at CIPSEM on January 9th, 2020.
The 21 EM-43 participants with representatives from the German Federal Ministry of the Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety, the rectors office of TU Dresden, members of the Faculty of Environmental Sciences and the CIPSEM team.
Again, 21 participants from 21 countries started their 6-month journey to become ambassadors of change and progress towards a sustainable society.
… also the Rector of TU Dresden, Prof. Dr. Hans Müller-Steinhagen (center), joined in for the opening ceremony.
UNEP/UNESCO/BMUV course program 