We are starting the next stage of cooperation within NEB. The results of the co-design phase influenced the way of communication and the assumptions made. In order to support the implementation of the next stages, the European Commission has created the New European Bauhaus Lab, a space for dialogue and cooperation for communities related to the initiative.
In January 2021, the co-design phase began to define the needs and way of thinking about aesthetic, sustainable and inclusive solutions for our living space. A strong need to exchange the partners' experiences was noticed. One of the priorities has been to create a collaborative infrastructure, including a digital platform for the exchange of ideas.
The New European Bauhaus Lab is a space for dialogue and cooperation for the NEB community. As part of Think Tank, representatives of official partners of the initiative will co-create, prototype and test tools, solutions and activities that will help implement the assumptions of the NEB.
The NEB aims not only to bring people closer to the principles of the European Green Deal, but to be the driving force behind its implementation in an attractive, innovative and human-oriented way. The initiative aims to create a space for interdisciplinary dialogue and a common design and creative platform where architects, artists, students, scientists, engineers and designers collaborate on systemic change through a combination of design and sustainable development. It is a movement based on sustainability, accessibility and aesthetics. The European Commission has identified new initiatives and actions to develop and implement sustainable solutions. Four main thematic axes are defined:
- reconnecting with nature
- regaining a sense of belonging
- prioritising the places and people that need it most
- fostering long term, life cycle and integrated thinking in the industrial ecosystem
There are also funds behind the actions. Some 85 million euro from EU programs has been allocated to finance the actions. In addition, the Commission will invite Member States to implement locally sustainable strategies as well as participate in cohesion policy programs.
In this way, the initiative will help to translate the European Green Deal into a positive, tangible transformation of the places around us, but also of the environment that enables innovation and our way of thinking. As President von der Leyen said in her State of the Union address last week: "If the European Green Deal has a soul, it is the New European Bauhaus!"
In spring 2022, the first edition of the New European Bauhaus Festival will take place in Brussels to increase citizen engagement.