planet-centric design proposal
design, publication, workshops, exhibitions, classes

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In the context of the climate crisis and the accompanying social change, the project examines the relationship between Berlin and the Spree, the urban space, the citizens and the body of water. How can the river be given its own "political" voice and what can help to create more awareness for the Spree and the influence of humans?

With the help of buoys, the water body draws attention to pollution. Digital tools and media, such as measuring devices and app, record the current state of the river and communicate it to citizens in an accessible way. Exciting historical and current articles related to the topic are also communicated.

A future layer "SpreeVision" on the website highlights untapped potential and illustrates how the city could change for the better with the help of the river, inspiring citizens and politicians to take action. During the hot summer months, the buoy pumps oxygen into the river, providing it to the Spree and its creatures.
The planet-centered approach provides a holistic and "green" solution to the various problems and ensures a healthier balance between the stakeholders involved.

Problem - During the extensive research, many problems were identified. The SpreeBerlin project focuses on the relationship between us and the water and specifically addresses the oxygen problem of the Spree River in the inner-city area.
Through education about problems such as sewer overflows, river architecture, the use of water bodies by shipping and traffic, tire wear, fertilizer input from agriculture, sulfate pollution from coal mining or climate change, an awareness of citizens* can be raised.
In the best case, SpreeBerlin inspires, mobilizes and leads to a new perspective on our precious urban nature. Raising awareness through water quality data allows a broad mass of people to become little "scientists". The project is also a practical solution to the problem of oxygen deficiency in the canals and the resulting fish mortality. Currently, one of the only solutions is the oxygen pumping boat "Rudolf Kloos".
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But how useful is the costly, labor-intensive, time-consuming and environmentally harmful use of the boat? The buoys could be an alternative that can be operated with sustainable energy.