SUSTAINABILITY

This innovative concept of investing in nature was implemented by the Hinterland of Things Conference in summer 2023 together with our partner green account – by creating a high-quality biotope the size of the event area.

CAUSE WE CARE.

FOR A GREENER TOMORROW

The Hinterland Biotope is part of a so-called biotope complex that connects various ecosystems: Orchard meadows, field hedges, water edge strips and afforestation can be found on the total area of 23.6 hectares. The Hinterland biotope extends over an area of 3850 square meters.

TRANSFORMING BIELEFELD AT SCALE

The goal is to transform the Brönninghausen area into a vibrant and diverse ecosystem, enhancing species-poor zones into rich habitats and protected areas. To achieve this, numerous initiatives are being implemented to create a thriving biotope complex, providing a sanctuary for a wide range of animals and plants.

HOW WE REACH GOALS WITH OUR PARTNER

Since its founding at the Founders Foundation in 2021 and winning the Startup School in the same year, the team around the founders Trutz von der Trenck, Max von Sandrart and Johann Meyer zu Bentrup has focussed on building Europe’s nature trading platform to enable companies to invest in nature and biodiversity – the commodities of the future.

CAUSE WE CARE.

FOR A GREENER TOMORROW

The Hinterland Biotope is part of a so-called biotope complex that connects various ecosystems: Orchard meadows, field hedges, water edge strips and afforestation can be found on the total area of 23.6 hectares. The Hinterland biotope extends over an area of 3850 square meters.

TRANSFORMING BIELEFELD AT SCALE

The goal is to transform the Brönninghausen area into a vibrant and diverse ecosystem, enhancing species-poor zones into rich habitats and protected areas. To achieve this, numerous initiatives are being implemented to create a thriving biotope complex, providing a sanctuary for a wide range of animals and plants.

HOW WE REACH GOALS WITH OUR PARTNER

Since its founding at the Founders Foundation in 2021 and winning the Startup School in the same year, the team around the founders Trutz von der Trenck, Max von Sandrart and Johann Meyer zu Bentrup has focussed on building Europe’s nature trading platform to enable companies to invest in nature and biodiversity – the commodities of the future.

OUR PARTNER

Green Account, established in 2021 and headquartered in Bielefeld, Germany, is a company dedicated to facilitating investments in nature restoration and biodiversity enhancement. Their platform connects landowners with investors to implement impactful environmental projects, such as rewetting peatlands, afforesting areas, planting hedgerows, and establishing traditional orchards. These initiatives aim to sequester CO₂ and promote biodiversity. Green Account utilizes a Nature Credit System based on the German Federal Nature Conservation Act’s eco-point system, ensuring transparent and secure investments in ecological assets.

OUR ROAD TO A SUSTAINABLE CONFERENCE

Original of the project area

Most of the project area consists of species-poor farmland, previously used intensively for agriculture, especially for growing maize for the farm. In the northern section, there is a wooded area, and to the south, the land borders a stream embankment.

The aim is to transform the area in Brönninghausen into a high-quality and diverse ecosystem and to upgrade species-poor areas into biodiverse habitats and protected areas. To this end, a wide variety of measures are being taken to turn the project area into a wonderful biotope complex that is home to diverse animals and plants.

The biotope covers an area of 23.6 hectares, equivalent to 236,000 square meters.

At our conference, we are committed to sustainability through several key actions:

  • Exclusively Vegetarian Menu: We are providing a fully vegetarian menu, aiming to reduce the environmental impact associated with meat production.
  • Reusable Dishware and Recyclable Coffee Cups: All meals will be served on reusable dishware, and our coffee cups are recyclable, significantly cutting down on single-use waste.
  • Water in Glass Bottles: To minimize plastic use, we will serve water in glass bottles.
  • Partnerships with DB and MoBiel: We have partnered with DB and MoBiel to offer discounted public transportation options for attendees, encouraging the use of eco-friendly travel methods.
  • Reuse of Materials and Banners: To minimize waste, we are reusing materials and banners from previous years’ events.
  • Rented Furniture: Instead of purchasing new furniture, we are renting it, further reducing our environmental footprint.
  • Relevant Program and Startups: Our program features topics of current importance and includes representation from innovative startups.
  • Focus on Female Empowerment: This year, we are placing a special emphasis on female empowerment.
  • Diversity, Tolerance, and Justice: Our event promotes diversity, tolerance, and justice, reflecting our commitment to these values.

TAKE AN INTERACTIVE LOOK ON THE PROJECT

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BIELEFELD 5 JUNE 2025