The winner is …
The sharing initiative of Division 2 International Office began in 2021 as a collaboration between the stuvus Sustainability Department and Division 2. The initiative is primarily organized by the supervisors of the international students. Students and university staff collect used items that are important for daily life and living at the beginning of each semester. Everything collected – from kitchen utensils to bed linen and towels – is made freely available to newly arriving international students at the International Center.
Why is this sustainable?
The sharing initiative promotes less waste, fewer purchases of low-quality disposable goods, while at the same time raising awareness for second-hand culture. At the same time, the project also encourages students to help each other. From the first day of their stay, international students are made aware of issues related to sustainability and resource-conserving living. In addition, they receive financial relief and can adapt more quickly to everyday life. The sharing initiative offers practical support, allows participants to experience active engagement firsthand, and promotes a responsible and mindful use of resources. And: Apart from personnel costs, no additional financial expenses are incurred.
What the jury says
"The idea and the personal commitment of those responsible are convincing due to their contribution to ecological, social, and economic sustainability at the University of Stuttgart."
What award winner Rebecca Schwenger from the International Office says
“We are very pleased with the award; it is a strong sign of appreciation for our work, our efforts to promote sustainability at the university, and at the same time, for our support of international students. We are confident that the award will help make our upcoming sharing initiatives even better known across the university.”
Ideas for the future
Closer collaboration with student residences or nearby relevant shops is possible, and cooperation with stuvus could be resumed when sufficient capacity is available. The prize money could be used for emergency rations for the first days, as well as for reusable shopping bags and cups with the university logo. Vouchers for second-hand and zero-waste stores could also be an option.
[Image: University of Stuttgart / Division 2]
