Hub Bern

Located in the heart of Switzerland, Hub Bern, led by Dr. Olivier Jacquat, is dedicated to counteracting the loss of biodiversity and promoting sustainable human–nature interactions in ecologically sensitive areas. As a mountainous and agricultural region, Bern is significantly impacted by global climate change, experiencing more frequent dry summers, heavy precipitation, high-temperature days, and snow-poor winters. The team focuses on fostering positive transformations to address these challenges. Its current portfolio includes 15 different projects, including sustainable energy systems, strategies to achieve carbon-neutral tourism, and progressive steps toward a more sustainable food system. All their initiatives are supported and implemented in close collaboration with the Canton of Bern.

Main achievements in 2023

1. Pathways toward a climate neutral Oberland-Ost region

Governmental bodies established the objective of making this tourist region climate neutral. To support the achievement of this goal, in a first phase, the project team led by the Centre for Development and Environment (CDE) implemented a participatory development process, bringing together a diverse group of actors from the region, as well as researchers and representatives of public authorities. By carrying out a joint problem and situation analysis, they formulated visions of what a climate neutral region might look like and outlined pathways toward reaching this desirable future. Details of this collaborative work are presented in a brochure that can be used as a compass for taking action and initiating steps necessary for change. In the subsequent implementation phase, which is managed by the Office for the Environment and Energy of the Canton of Bern and closely supported by the Regional Conference Oberland-Ost, innovative pilot projects are to be realized in the region.

2. New project in the Grosses Moos region

The Grosses Moos region is known to be “Switzerland’s vegetable garden”. Being a drained former wetland, it is characterized by organic soils and faces challenges such as high carbon emissions, loss of organic matter, and a decline in biodiversity. A new project aims to develop and test win-win-win solutions that benefit biodiversity, agricultural production, and the climate. In 2023, workshops were organized to exchange ideas and gain a better understanding of the diverse perspectives on possible future developments in the Grosses Moos region. Together, representatives from agricultural organizations, environmental NGOs, research institutions, and public authorities worked to create a common systemic understanding and brainstorm possible incubator projects, which will be further developed in 2024.

3. Effective visitor management in Bern’s Nature Parks

Bern's regional nature parks are home to numerous biodiversity hotspots. Located in appealing landscapes, they attract many visitors. In 2023, initiated by the nature parks, key stakeholders active in visitor management came together and signed an agreement on principles for an integrated and jointly implemented visitor management in sensitive and highly frequented areas. Rangers were assigned a crucial role in sensitizing visitors. The initiative aims to increase awareness among visitors, promote compliance with existing rules of conduct, and strengthen cooperation among various stakeholders.

4. Wood ash: A promising new raw material for a circular economy

Every year, 75,000 tons of wood ash are generated in Switzerland. Currently, this is mainly deposited in landfills. However, research conducted with the Wyss Academy’s support has shown that wood ash has great potential as a substitute for limestone in the cement industry. The chemical-mineralogical properties of different types of wood ashes were analyzed, and promising uses in the construction industry and beyond were identified. Feasibility tests are now required. By using wood ash as a secondary raw material, material cycles can be closed, contributing to an improved carbon balance in cement production.

5. Strengthening regional value chains around forest and wood

Hub Bern implemented six incubator projects aimed at preserving or enhancing forest benefits while simultaneously improving the regional wood value chain. Progress has been made in various ways. This includes developing innovative wood products from hard-to-sell raw wood assortments, sensitizing municipalities to the sustainable use of local wood and forests and promoting the use of regional timber in construction by providing practical solutions for the complex coordination and logistics tasks involved. A few short videos present more details on regional value chains.

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