The “tracker dog” of tomorrow: innovative navigation software improves positioning

Nuremberg, 29th October 2009 – Originally developed for military purposes, satellite navigation devices have now been a set feature in almost all private cars for quite some time. But what about mobile navigation systems which can localise vehicles exactly or, for example, which can lead you around a shopping centre? It sounds like something from a science fiction film, but the Bavarian firm has now developed an intelligent “GOin” system which allows you to detect the exact position of people and mobile objects. The software is simply loaded onto a PDA or PC and not only offers help finding your way around a city centre or a large station, but also provides interesting information on the location or surroundings. Infsoft offers innovative solutions for industrial clients as well – for example, how to find a lost fork-lift truck. Based on the Fraunhofer ISS WLAN localisation technology the systems function without any problems both indoors and out.

Creating a child-friendly environment with paint and brush: KRASS celebrates an art festival in the Land of Ideas

Düsseldorf, 24th October 2009 – 800 canvasses, 400 paintbrushes, 40 volunteers and a lot of happy faces. The art festival organised by “KRASS – The biggest kids’ studio” to celebrate the “Selected Landmark” award was a huge success. 234 young artists from Germany and Kilolo in Africa put all of their energy into creating a colourful and unique piece of art. The studio’s initiator, Claudia Seidensticker, wants activities like these both to draw attention to socially underprivileged children and to create a child-friendly environment. A loose interpretation of the motto: ‘If we want to change the world we must begin with the children.’ For this exemplary concept opening the arts and music to young children “KRASS – The biggest kids’ studio” was named a “Selected Landmark in the Land of Ideas” on October 24th. Thomas Herring of Deutsche Bank presented the cup and the certificate signed by the Federal President to Claudia Seidensticker, the initiator of KRASS. In his prize-giving speech Herring emphasized the role art plays in breaking down barriers. “It speaks a language which we all understand. KRASS, the biggest kids’ studio in the world, encourages young artists to be creative. Claudia Seidensticker and her large team of volunteers give them practical support. This is an initiative which sets an example for the whole of Germany.”

Hand in Hand: German relief organisations pool resources to be able to get to troubled areas faster

Bonn, 4th October 2009 – When a catastrophe strikes every minute counts. Help which arrives either too late or at the wrong place can have disastrous results. Consequently, in 2001 eighteen German relief agencies joined forces so that, in an emergency, unnecessary delays could be avoided and help for those in need could be much more effective. Under the umbrella of the association known as “Aktion Deutschland hilft” (Germany provides help) the concentrated energy and years of experience in humanitarian foreign aid of well-known German organisations are now combined. This means that crucial supplies, willing helpers and financial aid reach their destination quicker. The alliance also has a positive effect on donations: by setting up a joint account unnecessary administration costs are cut out and the money can be used more efficiently – ensuring that contributions reach those that need the help most.

A new glass burner lowers emissions

Essen, 29th September 2009 – From drinking glasses to bottles, television screens, light bulbs and the aquarium – articles made of glass are to be found everywhere in our daily lives. The art of glass-making is a long-established one, but few people are aware that harmful nitrogen oxides are released during the manufacturing process. Now, thanks to an innovative natural gas burner developed by the Institute for Gas Energy in Essen (GWI) these dangerous emissions can be reduced by 50 percent. The new development is not only good news for our health – nitrogen oxide is highly toxic if inhaled directly – but also for the environment. Reducing the emissions can have a sustainable effect on the reduction of smog and acid rain.

Children demonstrate their rights through the “Children’s Rights Trail”

Fürth, 22nd September 2009 – Every one of the more than two billion children in the world share something in common. Whether male or female, whichever language they speak, whatever the colour of their skin or their religion: the internationally agreed rights of children apply to them all. To call attention to this the ‘Network for Child-friendly Cities’, an association operating in Fürth, Bavaria, has over the course of the last year been creating a “Children’s Rights Trail”. Working together with professional artists, children and teenagers create sculptures which demonstrate their basic rights. Over the last 12 months the children have created monuments representing their right to education, play and equality. The aim of the project: to use art to remind us of what mankind owes to children: the very best they have to give.

Athletes on the run – the ‘Achim Achilles’ runners’ portal connects runners and motivates couch potatoes

Berlin, 14th September 2009 – ‘Running, Suffering, Laughing, Living’. With this motto in mind Achim Achilles, alias Hajo Schumacher, gathers runners from all over Germany about him on his internet platform. Alongside advice on the topics of training, health and motivation, the users can also keep personal training diaries, organise running groups or exchange experiences. The website also lists expert opinions, current surveys and bizarre announcements. The portal is not only aimed at the approximately 17 million hobby runners in Germany, but looks particularly to attract those who so far haven’t discovered their love for the oldest and simplest form of sport in the world. For couch potatoes, this forum offers an easy introduction to running and provides them with the necessary motivation.

More than just hot air: “LaTherm” uses lost heat to heat buildings

Dortmund, 7th September 2009 – Lost heat, a by-product of industrial production processes, could until recently not be recycled in any way and had to be disposed of at a price. “LaTherm”, however, has now come up with a solution to counteract this double wastage. They have developed a process by which lost heat is stored in specially designed containers in which it is then transported to schools, hospitals or swimming pools and fed into their existing heating systems. The result is that the firms which produce waste reduce their disposal fees and “LaTherm” customers not only save on heating costs, but are pleased to have a portion of their heating supplies free from fuel costs linked to the price of oil. And there is an advantage for the environment as well: LaTherm customers save approximately 90 percent of CO2 emissions compared to traditional heat production methods.

Journey to the centre of the earth: “geoJETTING” simplifies the sustainable use of geothermal energy

Bochum, 2nd September 2009 – For most people a hot shower in the morning, a relaxing bath in the evening and a warm home in the winter have long been amenities which we take for granted. Thanks to “geoJETTING” these creature comforts can now be provided a lot more simply by making use of the earth’s natural heat. “Vaillant geoSYSTEME GmbH” has developed a process which drills channels into the earth using high water pressure. Subsequently a probe is sunk into the channel to tap the heat at the earth’s core. The process has a number of advantages: unlike conventional methods this technique allows for channels to be drilled in several directions, avoiding the formation of sludge, and in addition it is environmentally friendly.

All systems go in the Land of Ideas: ‘Travolution’ traffic light system reduces waiting time and protects the environment

Ingolstadt, 27th August 2009 – If you are driving through a town with a lot of traffic lights and are fortunate enough to go through most of them at green, you automatically think how lucky you are. In Ingolstadt this ‘luck’ is hopefully going to become the rule – thanks to a new system known as ‘Travolution’. The traffic light sequence is based on genetic algorithms and is founded on the principals of evolution. Taking into consideration several hundred parameters extracted from current traffic patterns the control systems are in a constant state of learning. Consequently, every five minutes a new, more intelligent generation is created. The beneficiaries of this system are not only the drivers – nature is also a winner. The software experts at GEVAS Software GmbH were inspired by nature’s continual drive towards optimal adaptation. The consequence: a reduction of 700,000 litres of petrol used every year.

Combatting unemployment with creativity: “ProJob” opens up new perspectives for the jobless in the Land of Ideas

Bremen, 19th August 2009 – With a swing or without, big or small, multi-coloured or plain: whatever the park offers, children just love being able to burn off energy and play with their friends. “Projob”, a not-for-profit firm in Bremen, has developed a smart concept which keeps playgrounds and other oases for children attractive, while at the same time helping those who are out of work. Their “Building Art” project offers the long-term unemployed the opportunity to be part of redesigning play areas in schools, kindergartens and other social institutions. Under the direction of a professional artist and a construction manager, twelve such projects have already been completed in Bremen. Beneficiaries of the scheme are not only the little ones who come to play, but also the unemployed. By participating in these projects they are acquiring new skills which will give them a better chance of getting back into the job market.

Good ideas on the move through the “Land of Ideas”: The “Science Express” presents innovation made in Germany

Erfurt, 9th August 2009 – If you take a look at the trains travelling across Germany this year you may be lucky and spot the “Science Express”, a train of a special kind which will be journeying throughout the country between March and October 2009. It will be stopping at 60 stations to give people a chance to look inside. The “Expedition to the future” exhibition covers everything from innovative technology to exemplary products and world-class research into current topics – in short, an overview of the products and research offered by our nation in the area of science. For example, visitors can see how science and technology are expected to affect many areas of our lives in the years to come. Above all it is hoped that as a result of this initiative young people will be encouraged to take up a science at university.

A new approach to violence: Finding constructive solutions

Dietzenbach, 1st August 2009 – One wrong word and the punch-up has started: violence is increasingly becoming a part of the everyday life of young people. The “People’s Theater”, an association founded in 2001, shows how conflicts can be solved without resorting to fighting. Young amateurs act short scenes which one would expect to lead automatically to aggression. But before the situation gets out of hand the presenter cuts in and stops the actors with a gong. Then, along the lines of “think up an end to the story”, the actors and the audience work out together how the situation could be solved amicably and what social skills are required. Finally, both the actors and members of the audience join together to demonstrate the solution on the stage.

Fun and excitement in the Land of Ideas: The "Hildesheim Olympiacamp" inspires young sports fans

Hildesheim, 27th July 2009 – Almost every child is familiar with football or table tennis. But how about cheerleading, fencing or American football? For all those who want to try out unusual sports the "Hildesheim Olympiacamp" is right up their street. Since 2003 this special summer camp for children and teenagers has offered participants the chance to take a shot at 18 different sports. With this initiative the sports club "Olympia 2004" is not only aiming at getting young people interested in exercising, but is also helping to generate a sense of belonging, regardless of social, cultural or national heritage.

Low noise, high output in the “Land of Ideas”

Wunstorf, 21st July 2009 – With a load capacity of up to 700 kg and space for four euro-pallets, EcoCraft Automotive’s ‘Ecocarrier’ is nothing less than a power-pack, ideal for moving goods safely from A to B. And what’s more, this modern transporter functions entirely without fuel. It is powered either by an electric or a hybrid-electric power train with which it can travel up to 80 kilometres. The first mass-produced commercial vehicle of its kind is not only amazingly quiet, but also very low on CO2 emissions. Its top speed of 75 km/h makes the ‘Ecocarrier’ ideal for use in cities or in large production facilities.

The “Land of Ideas” takes a close look at the Wadden Sea

Oldenburg, 15th July 2009 – The Wadden Sea is a unique ecosystem which is home to a large number of species of animals and plants which are ideally suited to this habitat. But surprisingly little is known about the processes which take place in these tidal mudflats. The “Wadden Sea Research Station” of the Institute for Chemistry and Biology of the Marine Environment of the University of Oldenburg has been researching into the secrets of the sea and contributing to a better understanding of this distinctive environment. The bright yellow mast which rises from the sea off the coast of Spiekeroog is a measurement station able to constantly register data – even under the most extreme weather situations – consequently providing an insight, for example, into the effects of environmental influences on the Wadden Sea. To enable visitors to learn more about the latest findings, a replica of the “Wadden Sea Research Station” has been built on dry land. Since 2009 both young and old have been able to check data or speak to scientists in the city of Oldenburg and discover what the Wadden Sea has to teach us.

A mixed community with strong ties

Stolzenau, 5th July 2009 – Both young and old, big and small, with or without a disability – “Siedlerhof Stolzenau” has become a community which knows no segregation and no barriers. The occupants have now moved in to populate the 24 flats for singles or families alongside the housing groups for senior citizens and the training flat for school pupils, which have all been restructured and refurbished at considerable expense. DSN Stolzenau GmbH, the company which operates the complex, lays emphasis on the flair of the place which encourages neighbours to help each other. The infrastructure available to the residents is ideal with the local cultural club, a music school, care services and a social counselling organisation all offering their services at the Siedlerhof.

START-up aid in the “Land of Ideas”

Frankfurt am Main, 27th June 2009 – Young people are often confronted by huge challenges on their way towards adult working life. On the one hand they want to fulfil their own dreams and goals and at the same time they are faced with the expectations, for example, of their parents or their social environment. Youngsters from ethnic backgrounds have the added challenge of finding their feet in largely unknown territory without neglecting the traditions which influence their family’s value system – challenges which are not easy to surmount. The START Foundation was set up to help adolescents like these from immigrant families. As a subsidiary of the charitable Hertie Foundation it awards scholarships to gifted and committed adolescents between the ages of 14 and 18 who come from ethnic backgrounds. Tutoring and language lessons, work experience, study trips or computer courses are just some of the ways in which the foundation helps young people to take advantage of opportunities and prepare themselves for the world of work. START’s objective is to give young people a helping hand as they move up through school while also promoting social skills and an understanding for foreign cultures.

Quiet ventilators bring a breath of cool air to the “Land of Ideas”

Hollenbach, 16th June 2009 – They provide the cooling air so much needed on hot summer days: fans. But fans are not just about making the temperature more pleasant in our homes – virtually all technical appliances from computers to fridges right up to large industrial plants only function efficiently if cooled. ebmpapst, a firm based in the south of Germany, has now developed a particularly quiet and energy-saving fan, “HyBlade”. This industrial ventilator has a unique hybrid structure which makes the axial-flow fan much more effective and more efficient than comparable products. For its trend-setting new mode of operation “HyBlade” was named as a “Selected Landmark in the Land of Ideas” on June 16th 2009.

Fresh impetus and support for careers over 40

Bad Homburg, 7th June 2009 – Job adverts are generally not directed at applicants over the age of 40. There is still a prejudice that these people will be more likely to fall ill or that their motivation to learn new things is lower. However they overlook the fact that older employees have their own individual wealth of experience and because of this are extremely well equipped to contend with all kinds of challenges. Monika Funsch is well aware of this. She set up “top forty” to offer support to those known as the “best agers” looking to further their career or to change to a new one. At “top forty” people over the age of 40 are given individual advice and coaching which takes their current circumstances into account. Their specific know-how, qualifications and life and professional experience are looked at individually.

Tomorrow’s Technology: The “3-D-Biochip” analyses the effect of medicines

Leipzig, 26th May 2009 – Saving lives, improving health, making pain tolerable: medicines are often indispensable. Yet frequently it is a long way the active agent takes from lab bench to marketable product. It requires innumerable tests, analyses and often animal experiments to precisely identify the effect of a substance. No longer: The 3-D-Biochip has been developed at the Centre for Biotechnology and Biomedicine of Leipzig University. Within milliseconds the chip shows the effect of medicines from tissue samples. Animal experiments are a thing of the past – plus the developmental period of pharmaceuticals will be reduced drastically.

A circus for everybody promotes diversity in the “Land of Ideas”

Herne, 20th May 2009 – Dancing, acrobatics, juggling, cracking jokes – at the circus the audience is spellbound by outstanding performances. Also “Circus Schnick-Schnack” from Herne in North Rhine-Westphalia offers a spectacular and varied programme. But there is more to “Circus Schnick-Schnack”: It is a registered association and cooperation is its main objective. Old and young, handicapped and non-handicapped artists work together for great performance in the ring – thus learning to appreciate each other’s singularity and individual talent. For this innovative and trend-setting approach “Circus Schnick-Schnack” was named as a “Selected Landmark in the Land of Ideas” on 20 May 2009. Henceforth, “Circus Schnick-Schnack” is part of Germany’s largest network for courage, curiosity and innovation.

Helping children with organ transplants: starting a new lease of life

Frankfurt/Main, 12th May 2009 – It’s not easy for adults to come to terms with a transplant – for children it’s even harder. To be there for children and their families in these difficult circumstances “Kinderhilfe Organtransplantation e.V.” (helping children with organ transplants) was set up in 2004. Among other things, the association helps families cope with financial difficulties, offers psychosocial care as well as providing support for patients starting a new life after a successful operation. One of a kind in Germany, the association receives support from numerous high-profile celebrities from the world of sport and wider society such as Pascal Roller, captain of the “Deutsche Bank Skyliners”. Together with their coach Murat Didin the team is in the German premier basketball league. Since 2005 Deutsche Bank has been the team’s exclusive partner, contributing to the promotion of real sportsmanship as a value to be held high in our society. In his prize-giving speech Jens Ferdinand, Deutsche Bank Frankfurt, recognised the passionate commitment of the association’s members, emphasizing how they give the help which is so often needed. “Those affected find expert advice and care, as well as financial support to enable them to meet the high expenses which a transplant incurs. The association ensures that young patients and their families receive the help they need to be able to start a new life.”

What does the world believe? - “Selected Landmark” Religion Monitor finds the answers

Gütersloh, 28th April 2009 – Our world has countless forms of belief which in many cases have a decisive effect on how adherents live their everyday lives. But how much attention is really given to religion? How does it affect the life of individuals, and what effect does it have on upbringing and how values are passed on? Questions which in the face of what seemed to be an overabundance of answers have remained unanswered for a long time. Bertelsmann Foundation’s “Religion Monitor” has now brought light to this scientific darkness. In a unique study comprising around 100 questions, facts have been collected and collated which, for the first time, give us a well-founded assessment of the world’s belief and faith systems. People from all world religions and on all continents were interviewed in an attempt to move a step closer to understanding the role religion plays in our modern society.

Help for helpers

Berlin, 15th April 2009 – Whether in Africa or Asia, Germany or Kyrgyzstan: in all parts of the world there are people who are starving, have no roof over their head or are in need of help due to illness. The support they need comes from non-profit-making organisations which help the people where it is needed most – where they live. However, to be able to give this support the projects often need help themselves, both financially and materially as well as in the shape of helping hands. This is where ‘betterplace.org’ comes in, bringing projects, sponsors, active members and givers together in one place: a virtual location which in a very real sense brings people together – those who want to help with those who need help. The beneficiaries of this idea are not only the people behind the projects who find they can raise support for their cause in a simple, uncomplicated way. They are also those who want to send financial help: they can rest assured that with ‘betterplace.org’ their money will be delivered 100% to the place where it is needed. In addition, they can track the progress of “their” project online themselves.

Clever pipes in the “Land of Ideas”

Weimar, 25th March 2009 – Line systems for gas are usually protected perfectly by metres of thick layers of earth. During construction work, however, excavator shovels can pose an unexpected threat. Should a leakage occur in the pipeline, the gas can leak unhindered and potentially cause great damage, in a worst-case scenario posing a serious threat to life and limb. Experts at the Research Centre for Underground and Pipeline Construction in Weimar have now developed a pipework system which is prepared for such emergencies – the so-called “SafePipes”. These ‘smart’ tubes are equipped with special sensors which set off an alarm as soon as any unusual readings are detected. Should a leakage be registered, the innovative pipes close independently. This way “SafePipes” not only create more security but also avoid the loss of the valuable resource. For its innovative “SafePipe” technology the Research Centre for Underground and Pipeline Construction was named as a “Selected Landmark in the Land of Ideas” on 25th March 2009.

A bus packed full of history goes on tour through the “Land of Ideas”

Berlin, 18th March 2009 – There is an air of expectation on the school playground as the pupils eye the big red dice, the lesson’s main attraction, with curiosity. The colourful giants aren’t objects for a modern marketing stunt, but part of an innovative concept of the Jewish Museum Berlin (JMB). To give pupils throughout Germany the chance to visit a museum, the project “on.tour – the JMB is making history” is visiting schools all over the country with its mobile exhibition. One of the project’s central aspects are the red dice. Inside them exhibits from the museum are on display which give information about the Jewish religion, as well as everyday objects which have a particular connection to the teenagers’ lifestyles. This way the pupils experience a little bit of German-Jewish history and discover important details in a playful way. As a result of this innovative concept the “on.tour – the JMB is making history” project was named as a “Selected Landmark in the Land of Ideas” on 18th March 2009. This makes it part of Germany’s biggest network for courage, inquisitiveness and innovation. “To be able to exist in the present, we both want and have to understand the past.

Postage of the future leaves its stamp on the “Land of Ideas”

Bonn, 12th March 2009 – Until now it has always been a symbol of value without which no letter could reach its destination. Before long, though, it could be a thing of the past: the postage stamp. Thanks to an innovation by Deutsche Post known as ‘Handyporto’ (mobile postage), in future all that will be needed to send post to friends, family or business partners is a simple function on a mobile phone. By texting a message to 22122, within seconds a data code is received on the customer’s mobile. Instead of the stamp, the customer can then copy the code by hand onto the letter or postcard, and off it goes into the next post box on its way to the recipient. Payment is deducted directly via the owner’s mobile phone bill. Thanks to ‘Handyporto’, the post of tomorrow can be sent from any place at any time, creating a new dimension of service which benefits the customer. For this innovative concept Deutsche Post’s ‘Handyporto’ was named as a “Selected Landmark in the Land of Ideas” on 12th March 2009. This makes the invention part of Germany’s biggest network for courage, inquisitiveness and innovation. “’Handyporto’ offers independence from opening hours, is an impressive example of the spirit of innovation in our country and leads the way to an even more comfortable future in the area of postal services,” emphasised Hans-Peter Stefer of Deutsche Bank in his prize-giving speech.

Making the most of patents

Berlin, 6th March 2009 – Time and again groundbreaking inventions have had their origins in Germany. Innovations such as the MP3 format show that collaboration between commerce and science contributes to carrying such strokes of genius from Germany into the rest of the world. Once the brilliant idea has been put down on paper, the decision has to be made as to who gets the patent for the intellectual property – the company as the employer or the scientific institute as the intellectual father? Boehmert & Boehmert, a law partnership in Berlin, has specialised in proprietary matters and has developed sample agreements which can be adopted free of charge for collaborative projects between industry and science. These model contracts are to help avoid possible legal disputes on questions of revenue or awards. Particularly for small businesses or institutions which do not have their own legal department this is an important instrument to help protect their interests. At the same time, it places the cooperation of commerce and science on a safe legal footing, giving future “Made in Germany” patents a head start.

Literature 2.0: Going digital in the “Land of Ideas”

Dresden, 22nd February 2009 – We are all familiar with that special feeling of being in a library. Shelves as high as the ceiling with row upon row of books, which either leave the visitor feeling solemnly elated – or desperate, faced with the fact of having to find the book they’re looking for like the proverbial needle in a haystack. The Saxony State Library and Library of the University of Dresden (SLUB) is now offering its visitors a service which will make searching a lot easier. Thanks to state-of-the-art technology the books, some of which are centuries old, are being introduced to the modern digital age. In the SLUB’s centre for digitalisation even 1,000 page volumes are being scanned and converted into manageable files which users can easily access and browse on their computer. This way, for the first time ever, valuable works such as the 13th century “Sachsenspiegel” or a manuscript of Bach’s Mass in B Minor are available to those interested, without being damaged by the turning of pages or any marks being left. An innovation which benefits the users and literature alike. Because of their modern concept of conserving cultural heritage the SLUB Dresden was named as a “Selected Landmark in the Land of Ideas” on 22nd February.

Three in one go - Bochum honours its “Selected Landmarks 2009”

Bochum, 17th February 2009 – Once known as a down-to-earth mining stronghold, Bochum presents itself nowadays as a modern location for innovation: In the “365 Landmarks in the Land of Ideas” competition the city of 380,000 inhabitants in the Ruhr stands out with no less than three “Selected Landmarks”. Amongst more than 2,000 applicants for the competition, the social project “Jedem Kind ein Instrument” (An instrument for every child), the “Research for Health Protection” wing of the BGFA (Research Institute for Occupational Medicine of the German Social Accident Insurance) as well as Vaillant’s innovative drilling method “geoJetting” came up trumps. The three Bochum history makers were able to convince the impartial jury of their concepts and are now a part of the unique network of “Selected Landmarks” in the “Land of Ideas”.

The big effect of miniature mirrors: energy-saving methods of the future

Kassel, 16th February 2009 – Can you save energy with nanotechnology? Scientists from Kassel are making it possible! At the Institute of Nanostructure Technologies and Analytics of the University of Kassel Prof. Hartmut Hillmer’s team are currently developing a revolutionary technique known as ‘micro mirror arrays’. Embedded in normal windowpanes, these tiny mirrors will help save electricity by directing daylight to those corners of the room which are usually dark. This is possible due to a highly sensitive control and sensor technology which turns and tilts the miniature mirrors as needed. Should nobody be in the room, the small mirrors close and the window reflects the warmth. Depending on the time of year, this can noticeably lower the need for air conditioning or heating. The aesthetics of the building will not be impaired in any way since, except for a slight tint to the windows, no change will be visible. As a result of this innovative energy-saving technology the micro mirror arrays were named as a “Selected Landmark in the Land of Ideas” on 16th February.

Young experimenters in the “Land of Ideas”

Hemmingen, 10th Februray 2009 - Writing screenplays, creating colour schemes or developing remote-controlled aeroplanes – for pupils at the Carl-Friedrich-Gaus School (KGS) this is part of everyday life. As part of the initiative “JeT – Youth discovering technology”, the teenagers are being introduced to the technical aspects of areas like computing, mobility or media in different ‘competence centres’. With this project the Association of German Engineers (VDI) is aiming to introduce young people to technical professions while at the same time counteracting the lack of young engineers entering engineering professions. In the various centres and with the help of competent mentors the pupils gain important practical experience which will be of value to them in their future careers – while at the same time discovering how fascinating technology can be. “JeT – Youth discovering technology” was named as a “Selected Landmark” in the “Land of Ideas” on 10th February for having developed this trend-setting concept.

Sustainable climate protection with the “Forest Share“

Schwerin, 8th February 2009 - Whether oak, alder or maple - trees play a crucial role in our ecosystem. They protect the soil, store water, lower the concentration of carbon dioxide and produce oxygen. In so doing they not only provide us with fresh air to breathe but also help to neutralise the climate-damaging greenhouse gas CO². The Tourist Board of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania is now offering tourists and nature lovers the possibility to become owners of the forest themselves by buying “Forest Shares” – and so to do their bit towards protecting the climate. You can purchase these “green shares” for the amount of 10 Euros each from the Tourist Board. This amount enables them to plant a hardwood tree that neutralises the same amount of CO² as a family of four produces during a two-week holiday in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania – about 200 kg. Since November numerous ‘forest shareholders’ have acquired a little stretch of wood, leading to the planting of forests on Usedom, in Neustrelitz and Schwerin which will positively influence the climate. Planting ‘events’ allow each shareholder to plant their own seedling and experience for themselves how much fun protecting the environment is.

An outstanding idea: Volunteering to support “My hour for Wuppertal”

Wuppertal, 30th January - Courageous moves and great success stories, brilliant ideas and absolute commitment – our country is full of innovative energy and good ideas. A good reason to look forward to the future! One of these ideas is the “My hour for Wuppertal” initiative which took its place in the limelight as a “Selected Landmark” on January 30th. “My hour for Wuppertal” represents dedicated citizens who have joined together to make Wuppertal more attractive and a better place to live in, based freely on J.F.Kennedy’s “Don’t ask what your city can do for you; ask what you can do for your city.” The basic idea is that if every citizen can devote just one hour of their time it will add up to a total of more than 300,000 hours. And every individual has something to contribute. Be it through getting physically involved in improving the landscape of the city, by looking after children in need of support and stimulation or by accompanying and counselling fellow citizens as they look for employment. Since the launch of the initiative in 2006, 126,000 hours of voluntary work have come together in this way: many small steps which are achieving great things because they are changing an entire city.

The utmost energy efficiency

Vohburg-Irsching, 16th January 2009 - 13 meters long and weighing 440 tonnes, it is the world’s largest and most powerful gas turbine, to be found in the “Irsching4” power plant. With a capacity of 340 megawatts this enormous construction is capable of supplying a city of two million people with electricity while at the same time saving 40,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide each year. This is about the annual carbon dioxide emissions of 10,000 medium-sized vehicles each driving 20,000 kilometres. On 16th January “Irsching4” was named as a “Selected Landmark” in the “Land of Ideas” for its effective means of generating energy with an efficiency of more than 60 per cent. “An excellent idea which has been put into action with a high degree of expertise and know-how,” said Dr Ekkehard Lechler of Deutsche Bank in his prize-giving speech. He emphasized “The need to use our fossil energy as efficiently as possible. How to do so is shown here, making the future worth looking forward to.”

Lively exchange in the “Land of Ideas”

Munich, 12th January 2009 - Making phone calls, writing e-mails, talking to each other –ways of communicating which we experience and use every day. For people suffering from severe disabilities it is often hard or even impossible to express themselves and make themselves understood in this way. To give these people the possibility to approach others and so form and strengthen friendships, the association “Helfende Hände e.V.” (Helping Hands), run by parents, has instituted a remarkable project: “connecting friends – be connected”. Together with representatives of well-known communication companies they have developed PC workplaces especially adapted to the needs of the disabled. This makes skypeing and chatting just as possible as writing e-mails or surfing the world-wide-web. In addition, a “meeting place” with a barbeque, fireplace and a sensory adventure trail has been created to serve as a place of communication and lively encounters. In so doing, the project has helped to open up new ways of communicating for disabled people and has added to their quality of life. On 12th January the project “connecting friends – be connected” was named for its innovative concept as a “Selected Landmark” in the “Land of Ideas”. This makes it part of Germany’s largest network representing courage, inquisitiveness and innovation.

Medical innovation brings a new breath of life to the “Land of Ideas”

Heidelberg, 4 January 2009 - For patients, operations often not only mean worries and fears but also possible risks to their health, especially when sensitive organs are being treated. Thanks to a ground-breaking invention by a resourceful doctor at Heidelberg University Hospital the risks during airway surgery can now be reduced and the work of surgeons facilitated. Dr Christoph Schramm, Consultant Anaesthesiologist at the clinic in Heidelberg, has succeeded in developing an innovative endoscope, the “Fibuskop”, which permits the endoscopic examination of patients while simultaneously giving artificial respiration. Equipped with a camera and electronic steering the instrument is easy to use, allowing visual control by the doctor and creating gentler operating conditions, even during difficult operations. On 4 January the innovation in the field of endoscopy was named as a “Selected Landmark in the Land of Ideas”. This makes the invention part of Germany’s largest network representing courage, inquisitiveness and innovation. Under the patronage of Federal President Horst Köhler Deutsche Bank, together with “Germany – Land of Ideas”, awards an outstanding institution for its ideas and creativity every day of the year and puts it in the limelight nationwide.