Empowering local communities to co-create and implement DIY climate solutions

Introduction

More and more people are willing to do something about rising (energy) prices, more fragile supply structures, and climate change. Hence, the EmpowerLIFE project provides concrete, simple, and effective measures that can be co-created and implemented by local communities following a do-it-yourself (DIY) approach.

Categories of Measures

The measures will cover three categories:

1. Lifehacks: Are rolled out as online challenges using an existing App. They are simple and can be implemented individually, e.g., sealing windows.
2. Workshops: Measures that require practical instruction and additional support, e.g., insulation of storey ceilings.
3. Community projects: Are more complex, need to be implemented jointly, and require resources and ongoing support, e.g., community gardens, car sharing.

Target Communities

The addressed local communities are constituted spatially (neighbourhoods, etc.), socially (work colleagues, associations, etc.), or thematically (solar self-construction groups, etc.).

EmpowerLIFE Hubs

EmpowerLIFE Hubs are installed to provide the communities with spaces to co-create and implement innovative climate solutions and offer tools, material, and expertise.

Project Activities

The project activities will be embedded in existing structures and are realized in close cooperation with established initiatives and civil society organizations.

Community Activation

Crucial for the success of the project is the activation of local communities. This will be done via several promising channels:

• Develop follow-up channels to existing structures (energy consulting, e5 teams, etc.).
• Broadly advertise the participation options via communication channels.
• Cooperate with mobilization partners (companies, associations, etc.) to share opportunities for participation with interested citizens and groups.

Networking and Support

The existing initiatives and stakeholders will also be invited to participate in a local network that facilitates knowledge sharing, cooperation, and leads to new climate solutions. In addition, a small project fund will allow supporting the initiatives' own activities.