Commitment to Honest Communication
A Case Study in the Climate Crisis
Sustainability and climate protection are widely discussed topics. Yet, communication around them is often intentionally vague. The 3rd Impact Action Day by Impact Hub Stuttgart addressed this very issue. Yesterday, people gathered at the Wizeman Areal to ask, without judgment or moral lecturing, why we collectively produce results that none of us individually desire.
Conscious Misleading
Participants in this gathering understood that the focus is not on climate or environmental protection but rather on human protection. This is where communication falters: the climate does not need our protection, but people do.
System Dynamics and Exponential Growth
In his talk on system dynamics, André Reichel explained how our exponential growth toward collapse currently feels like a slow approach to resource limits. The difference isn’t yet evident: it’s good to build and drive electric cars, but perhaps not for everyone to own one just to drive a few kilometers to work, even if it’s enjoyable. What we need are more mobility concepts and less resource consumption.
Economic Incentives for Sustainable Thinking
In the “Team of the Hopeful,” we discussed with Tobias Kollmann how economically profitable sustainable thinking can be. This relies on education, exchange, and clear, unclouded communication. A prime example is the progress at WoodenValley gGmbH: Robert Böker and Kamila Pasko demonstrated in their tiny house, wood.ii, how awareness for sustainable building can be integrated into communication, from kindergarten to architectural firms. Just do it!
Innovation and Efficiency through Clear Communication
Another highlight was a keynote by Daniel Faller from STRABAG. He showed that a central innovation hub can be far more efficient than traditional suggestion systems. By fostering barrier-free communication, openness, and commitment, sustainable solutions can be found and implemented. STRABAG’s direct dialogue between CEO and employees is particularly valuable and efficient.
Critique of One-Dimensional Business Models
Patrick Knodel, an experienced impact investor, provided a critical perspective on venture capital-driven start-ups. These companies are often founded with the intent to sell profitably. Knodel posed the question of how long such one-dimensional models can last. When asked why they don’t do things differently, start-ups often respond: “That’s the market standard.” But how long can and should this standard persist?
Conclusion: Honest Communication as the Key to Success
Honest, simple, and clear communication is essential for genuine progress in sustainability and climate protection. It’s crucial to go beyond superficial solutions and face real challenges. Participants engaged in intense, judgment-free exchanges, laying the foundation for true, sustainable change.
Many thanks to the organizers and all participants for this valuable, open, and objective exchange! Naturally, climate protection can indeed make economic sense.
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