What began in 2005 as a bold idea during a visit to the College of the Atlantic has grown into a vibrant international initiative in Human Ecology. Over nearly two decades, the European College of Human Ecology (COHE) has built a unique path in higher education—rooted in sustainability, liberal arts, and transdisciplinary research. From early Charrette workshops and stakeholder dialogues in Emmend
ingen and Weissenburg, to ongoing academic exchanges across Europe and the U.S., our journey has been shaped by collaboration and community. Our Summer Universities (2015–2018) brought together students and scholars from across the globe to explore pressing topics—food sustainability, urban transitions, and business transformation—all through a human ecological lens. These events laid the foundation for innovative curriculum development and research. Along the way, we've contributed to international discourse through conferences and publications—from GAIA and the Society for Human Ecology to curated symposia and keynote panels. The “Manchester Declaration” and our work on core human ecology curricula continue to influence educational frameworks worldwide. Our partnerships—with Alanus University, College of the Atlantic, and the German Society for Human Ecology (DGH)—have been essential in co-developing our MA in Human Ecology and Philosophy of Social Entrepreneurship. Launched in 2021 as an international online program, it stands as a testament to years of shared vision, dialogue, and action. Looking back, we celebrate the milestones, the people, and the persistence that shaped COHE. Looking forward, we remain committed to cultivating human ecological thinking for the challenges of tomorrow.
