Hopefully, summer also brings with it some slow moments when we have time to simply lie in the sun and chill by the pool or on the beach. However, many of your favorite podcasts may also be on summer break, especially now, when you could actually do with a pleasant “vacation sprinkling”. You may also have already finished reading that shallow romance novel or crime thriller with the obligatory cynical and unenthusiastic investigator and are now desperately looking for new material. But if you’ve had enough of the shallow stuff and are ready to consume informative content, then you’ve come to the right place – because we provide you with recommendations for inspiring listening and reading material about sustainability, people and our future!
5 Podcasts
„Ideen für eine bessere Welt“:
The podcast focuses on inspiring and innovative concepts that aim to make the world a better place. In each episode, Yvonne Adamek meets inspiring people and talks about various topics ranging from sustainability and environmental protection, social justice and the common good to technological progress and new economic concepts.
“Umwelt und Verbraucher”: The podcast from Westdeutscher Rundfunk (WDR) deals with topics relating to environmental protection, sustainable living and consumer protection. The episodes deal with current developments in the field of environmental protection such as climate change, species protection and renewable energies. The podcast offers a mixture of current news, practical tips and in-depth background information to inspire listeners to lead a more conscious and sustainable life.
„fairquatscht“: The podcast that deals with social and ecological issues and takes a look at sustainable consumption and fair production. Podcast host Marisa Becker brings exciting interviewees to the microphone and not only talks about the background and effects of our consumer behavior, but also gives practical tips on how each individual can contribute to a positive change. The podcast is a source of inspiration for anyone who wants to make a commitment to a sustainable and fair future.
“Outrage + Optimism”:An English-language podcast that addresses the challenges of climate change and global environmental issues while providing hope and concrete opportunities for action.
Episodes often feature guests who share their expertise and experiences, providing insights into the latest developments, policy decisions and technological advances in the field of environmental protection. The focus is on solutions and innovations that can help tackle the global climate crisis.
“Outrage + Optimism” combines the urgent need to draw attention to the urgency of climate change (outrage) with the conviction that change is possible through collective effort and optimism. The podcast aims to spread hope and motivates its listeners to take action.
„Sustainababble“: The English-language podcast is known for its humorous and often sarcastic take on environmental issues, sustainability and the challenges of climate change. Presenters Dave Powell and Ollie Hayes take a somewhat unconventional approach, discussing complex environmental issues in accessible language, highlighting both the absurdities and the serious aspects.
“Sustainababble” is aimed at a broad audience with an interest in environmental issues, but who also enjoy a tongue-in-cheek reflection on the challenges and contradictions of the modern environmental movement.
5 Books
„Human Kind. A Hopeful History” by Rutger Bregman. A book that takes an optimistic view of human nature. Contrary to the common assumption that humans are inherently selfish and violent, the author is convinced that humans are essentially good and cooperative.
The book draws on a variety of historical events, scientific studies and case studies to support his thesis. Bregman challenges widespread negative assumptions about humanity, such as the idea that people inevitably act aggressively and selfishly in crisis situations. Instead, he shows that in many disasters and crises, people help each other and act in solidarity.
„Th Green New Deal“ is a book by futurologist Jeremy Rifkin that presents a comprehensive vision for a sustainable and environmentally friendly global economy. Rifkin argues that the age of fossil fuels is coming to an end and that the global economy urgently needs to switch to renewable energy to combat climate change and secure a sustainable future. How can a collective radical change succeed? Rifkin provides answers to such burning questions.
„The history of bees“ by Maja Lunde. A moving novel that explores the importance and fate of bees in different eras and societies. The book weaves together three interconnected stories from the past, present and future to paint a comprehensive picture of the invisible bond between humans and bees. A stirring and gripping novel that shows us the consequences of our actions on nature and its creatures.
„Unfuck the Economy” by Waldemar Zeiler. The book is a passionate plea for a radical realignment of the economic system. Zeiler, founder of the company Einhorn, criticizes the current economic model, which is based on profit maximization, infinite growth, and short-term gains, and sees it as the cause of social injustice, environmental destruction, and human alienation.
The author advocates for the Common Good Economy as an alternative, where the well-being of the community and the environment is at the forefront. In his book, Zeiler explains how companies can be sustainably successful and socially and ecologically compatible through sustainable business practices, ethical behavior, and social responsibility. He shares his own experiences and challenges as an entrepreneur and offers practical advice for a new kind of corporate management based on transparency, flat hierarchies, and employee participation.
“The year of the Dugong” by John Ironmonger. This moving novel revolves around themes such as humanity, community, and the importance of hope in difficult times. The author skillfully intertwines elements of fiction and reality to tell a story that is both emotionally gripping and thought-provoking. The novel centers on a small village and its residents, weaving a deep reflection on the significance of community, solidarity, and hope. John Ironmonger demonstrates how people can come together during crises to face challenges collectively, finding strength and courage in the process.
We hope we could inspire you to explore one of these books or podcasts. With that in mind, enjoy your reading or listening!