Flourishing Biodiversity

Floating University, Berlin

Flourishing Biodiversity is a workshop in two parts that invites an affective change in perspective on biodiversity. On a very practical side it offers hands-on knowledge and action in how to make a hot compost. Hot composting creates the conditions for the flourishing of biodiversity and hence for life. Moreover, Flourishing Biodiversity invites to experimentally and holistically activate the nurturing and healing potencies that hot composting offers and to tune into our multi species co-existence.

DAY 1

On the first day, we will build a hot compost together and you can observe how in no time and solely through the activity of the soil organisms, it heats up and transforms into fertile humus. In the run-up we have collected a cubic metre of garden and kitchen scraps at the Floating University, that we will use to prepare a feast for the soil creatures around the rainwater retention basin. Martina Kolarek (DIE BODEN SCHAFFT) combines traditional compost-making techniques with the latest scientific findings to revitalise urban soils and increase biodiversity in the city.

DAY 2

On the second day, we will experiment to create an inclusive and sensual awareness for our fellow microorganisms that by then will have multiplied in the then hot compost. As a playful awareness experiment it is an invitation to re-awaken our innate sensing nature, and to move from a human-centred to more earth­-bound mindfulness. Berit Fischer (Radical Empathy Lab) will guide through this trans-species encounter to generate presence and awareness. The methods draw e.g. on experimental composers Pauline Oliveros’ Deep Listening, radical and feminist pedagogies.

In collaboration with Martina Kolarek/DIE BODEN SCHAFFT which is an initiative for a new soil science and culture in Berlin, founded by Martina Kolarek, a biochemist, soil scientist and terrestrial artist in Berlin.