Tauschhaus Kiel: A year of sustainable engagement success celebrated!

Tauschhaus Kiel: A year of sustainable engagement success celebrated!

A remarkable pilot project is currently being celebrated in Kiel-Holtenau: The Tauschhaus opened its doors a year ago and has quickly become a popular meeting place in the neighborhood. The celebrations for the one-year anniversary took place on Richthofenstrasse, at the corner of Lilienthalstrasse, where a colorful hustle and bustle unfolded among those present. The festival was supported by live music by artist Claus Vaith, who entertained the guests with his “Tauschhaus Song”. Kerstin Graupner, head of the press department for the city of Kiel and initiator of the project, was also there and praised the volunteers.

The Tauschhaus, which was the first concept of its kind to be established in the public space of Kiel, is based on the positive experiences of other swap locations such as the Tauschbude Hammer and the Tauschhaus-Schrank in Suchsdorf. But the focus is not only on the exchange of goods, but it has also established itself as a contact point for meetings and social contacts. Graupner describes the voluntary work as strenuous, but at the same time sustainable, and emphasizes that without the commitment of the nine helpers, the operation of the exchange house would not be possible.

Rules for harmonious coexistence

The exchange house is a place that follows clear rules: residents are only allowed to give away seasonal, healthy things; large pieces of furniture are taboo. It is the user's responsibility to leave everything behind neatly. However, despite intensive efforts, there were also challenges, such as an excess of rubbish, which led to the temporary closure of the house in October. Above all, dried-out Advent wreaths and bulky waste meant that the volunteers were faced with overcrowding.

An additional problem highlights a positive side of the project: the encounters with people from different walks of life. For example, with a woman from the women's shelter or an elderly lady who sought refuge in the rain.

Sustainability in focus

The exchange house is part of a broader approach to sustainability in Kiel. The Kiel Sustainability Center, which has the motto “Inform. Encounter. Network.” occurs, offers a perfect framework for further sustainable projects. Various actors present themselves here, including the Environmental Protection Agency and organizations such as People for Future Kiel and the Climate Forum. Together they offer regular workshops and advice on topics such as biodiverse gardens, fair trade and sustainable nutrition.

A highlight of the center is the interactive zero waste refrigerator, where users can playfully learn how to store food efficiently. The offer is designed for a broad target group; school classes are also addressed with workshops and guided tours. The events take place regularly, at least once a month on Wednesday afternoons, and range from panel discussions to film evenings.

The exchange house and the sustainability center symbolize the growing commitment of the people of Kiel to building a sustainable community. Anyone interested in getting involved in the Tauschhaus sponsorship programs or other activities at the Tauschhaus is invited to contact the local advisory board. The city of Kiel supports this process by providing free land and facilitating waste disposal by providing free waste bags.

Committed citizens can thus easily become active and contribute to promoting sustainable coexistence, while at the same time benefiting from the city's support. The Kieler Tauschhaus has a good knack for bringing a bit of sustainability into people's everyday lives and creating a platform for joint work.