17/07/2026
How can climate action be both environmentally effective and economically viable?
This question was at the heart of this week’s Werkstatt des Wandels in Nantesbuch, hosted by the BMW Foundation Herbert Quandt. Bringing together leaders from agriculture, business, science, and politics, one message became clear: agriculture can be far more than a sector affected by climate change. It can become a driving force for climate action, energy security, and regional economic value creation.
To make this happen, we need:
▪️ New business models that make climate action economically attractive – from paludiculture and carbon sinks to peatland photovoltaics.
▪️Stronger collaboration across policy, business, science, and practice to break down silos and accelerate implementation.
▪️Long-term planning and investment certainty so that innovative solutions can move beyond pilot projects and scale.
▪️Strong regional value chains that create new markets for climate-friendly products while strengthening rural communities.
▪️Data, knowledge, and practical examples that build trust, provide direction, and make transformation tangible.
One conclusion was particularly encouraging: many of the solutions already exist. The next step is to bring the right stakeholders together, create the right enabling conditions, and turn ideas into action.
A sincere thank you to all participants, speakers, and partners for the open exchange, diverse perspectives, and shared commitment to shaping a sustainable future.
Because transformation happens where people take responsibility, learn from one another, and work together to make change happen.