Coherence despite all odds

In contrast to the physical distance we all need to keep these days, here is another example of the persistence of team spirit and the power of relationships. Recently there was a spontaneous online get-together of alumni of the 71st UNEP/UNESCO/BMU International Short Course on Ecosystem Management – Biodiversity Conservation and Ecosystem Services, which took place in September 2017:

Also the ongoing 43rd UNEP/UNESCO/BMU International Postgraduate Course on Environmental Management for Developing Countries had to adapt its character and after most of the participants returned home, it’s now continued as an “online only” effort. Nevertheless there was, despite the significant differences among time zones, a first complete reunion of all fellows last Wednesday (April 15th):

Once me and a friend and former colleague tried to come up with a fancy catchphrase for CIPSEM to be used for public relation purposes – we inoffically ended up with “CIPSEM – we open worlds” … and we still do, despite a global shut-down.

Take care and stay safe!

Farewell to energy experts

On Wednesday November 2nd the 69th UNEP/UNESCO/BMUB International Short Course on Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency (SC69) concluded in festive manner and 21 experts from 18 countries were looking back at four weeks with CIPSEM, but also ahead towards their challenges back home. Good luck SC69 – and all the best!

photos by Tamara Karp

Exploring heat and electricity generation from scrap wood

Today, after an introductory lecture on thermal treatment of waste, we went to see some practical applications. One group visited a coupled heat and power plant operated by STEAG New Energies. It is fuelled completely by chips of scrap wood supplied mainly by local waste management companies and is thus compensated under the Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG). We were given a very clear explanation of the technical and logistical set-up and a huge number of questions were patiently answered.

Explanation of the flue gas treatment system

Next to the boiler and combustion chamber. This is where fresh air gets into the system.

A look into the combustion chamber.

In the generator room.

Inspecting the control center.

And finally a group picture before we had home.