The FutureScape Conference marked a key milestone within the FutureScape Conference teaching innovation project and simultaneously concluded the module “Transformation Fields – Interdisciplinary Cooperation Project.”

At the heart of the module is Challenge-Based Learning (CBL), a practice-oriented approach in which students work on real-world challenges and develop independent, solution-oriented concepts.

A Real-World Sustainability Challenge

This year’s challenge was developed in collaboration with a practice partner. The task: to design a concept for the meaningful use of currently unused space in a future branch in Friedberg.

All proposed solutions were guided by the principles of Sustainable Development Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production.

Interdisciplinary and International Perspectives

During the conference, two student teams presented their concepts and engaged in in-depth discussions with the audience.

Their approaches addressed key questions of sustainable resource use:

• The recycling and reuse of coffee waste, including ideas for circular economy solutions and customer awareness
• Foodsharing strategies focused on reducing food waste and improving the use of surplus food

In addition, two discussions provided valuable insights into sustainable material use and innovative approaches to food redistribution.

Exchange, Reflection, and Community

The event concluded with a poster exhibition and informal networking session, offering space for further discussion and exchange between students, faculty, and guests.

For the students, the conference also represented an important moment of reflection. After an intensive first semester, it became clear how much they had developed – academically, personally, and as teams.

Part of a Long-Term Teaching Innovation Project

The FutureScape Conference is an integral part of a two-year teaching innovation project funded through the StiL initiative. The goal is to establish and continuously refine this format over multiple cycles.

With this year’s successful conference, the project has taken another significant step forward.