Innovation for a sustainable future: the HESO ideas competition 2023

In September 2023, the Solothurn Autumn Fair (HESO) was transformed into a center of sustainable innovation. Characterized by the guiding principle "legemirlos", the HESO special show 2023 was entirely dedicated to the topic of sustainability. This special show provided a stage for a variety of exhibitors - from foodwaste.ch to the Ökozentrum - to unveil their visionary concepts and initiate in-depth discussions about how we will shape the world in the future.

For our newly founded association Piazza Circulaire, this was the ideal opportunity to present the association and organize an ideas competition that focused on innovative approaches for a more sustainable future.

‍

Piazza Circulaire: Our commitment to change

As an exhibitor at the HESO special show, our aim at Piazza Circulaire was to promote sustainable change in our community. Our stand became a lively center of exchange where visitors of all generations could engage with the topics of biodiversity, sustainable nutrition and circular economy.

‍

The HESO ideas competition 2023

A highlight of the special exhibition was the ideas competition organized by Piazza Circulaire in collaboration with the 3FO Foundation. The challenge was to collect concrete solutions for current environmental problems in the canton of Solothurn. Three finalists were selected from 38 submissions, with ideas ranging from the creation of biodiverse oases in urban areas to revolutionary approaches to sustainable food concepts.

‍

Awarding the best ideas

Agronomist Christine Fury impressed the jury with her innovative idea to promote biodiversity in urban areas and was chosen as the deserving winner. Her project to create green islands in various municipalities in Solothurn is a clear sign of the community's commitment to supporting innovative ideas. Her prize money of CHF 4,000, sponsored by the 3FO Foundation, is a further step towards a green future.

In second place was Michael Gähler with his idea for a "biodiversity network" in the canton of Solothurn. His concept aimed to create a networked system of green spaces, including gardens and balconies, which serve as habitats for native plants and animals and promote biodiversity in urban areas.

Alessia Bärtsch secured third place with her project "Green Growth Challenge". Her vision focused on the creation and maintenance of urban green spaces in Solothurn to improve the quality of life and increase urban biodiversity through participatory approaches with local residents.

‍

Thanks to the 3FO Foundation and HESO

Special thanks go to the 3FO Foundation and the organizers of the HESO for their support and commitment to a sustainable future. Without them, this inspiring event would not have been possible.

What made the HESO ideas competition special was the commitment to realizing the ideas presented. The subsequent drinks reception provided an ideal opportunity for all participants to network and forge partnerships. It was not just about awarding the best idea, but also about providing a platform for exchange and support.

‍

For Piazza Circulaire, the HESO ideas competition was just the beginning. Further exciting events are already planned for the coming year, including a Food Save Banquet in Olten, which will take place on September 14, 2024.