Environmentally Friendly

There are many things that I love about Freiburg. It has a rich history, is quaint, is known to be the city with the nicest weather in Germany, and has been influential in its concern for our environment.

Much of the environmental friendliness that is seen throughout Germany was started here in Freiburg. Above the city are the constantly turning Windturms (as they are called here), and any drive through the Schwarzwald will guarantee more sightings.

Freiburg has been influential in beginning recycling programs. Throughout the city it is common to find trash cans with three sides, one for paper, one for plastics and metals, and one for "rubbish". We were given three trashcans in our rooms for the same purpose, and were told that if didn't separate the recycling the housemeister would and were kindly asked to be sure to recycle so as to spare the housemeister the hassle.

I already blogged about the fantastic bicycle paths that are found throughout the entire city. We have been told that many Freiburgers don't even own a car, but rather resort to walking, cycling, or taking public transportation.

Freiburg is also one of the first cities to seriously take solar energy into consideration. You can see solar paneling on the entire side of the farmhouse below. I have been told that most houses in Freiburg have solar power and produce more than is needed each year. Impressive!

In my time here I have met people who are very sensitive about the care of creation and it has been good to be in dialogue. For them, being environmentally friendly is a way of life and is influences their daily decisions. I have found myself challenged by their concerns and lifestyle.

My hope is that I will continue to become a better steward of this earth, caring for the creation that I live with, recognizing that I am not only a cherished part of it but have also been given responsibility for it. It is indeed good.

"Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice; let the sea roar, and all that fills it; let the field exult, and everything in it. Then shall all the trees of the forest sing for joy before the Lord" Ps. 96:11-13