Many industries converge this week for Green Tech Berlin. Because the topic of sustainability is on everyone’s agenda, we decided to see what happens at this conference with topics on fashion, mobility, technology and travel.
Cannes Film Festival 2023, a bold red carpet look based on the principles of a circular sustainability. Actress Eugenia Kuzmina graced the Croisette in a dress designed by Mira von der Osten for CRUBA.
Click on the video to find out what made the creation special.
Spring time in Berlin means bike riding. The cycling lanes have been widened to encourage more cycle ridership. I tried an electric Van Moof last year. The Dutch brand has made a name for itself in the mobile tech field with it’s uniquely designed durable city bikes. When you see the bike, you know it.
This is not the 70’s Chopper bike, just jump on and ride. In 2021 there is no fun without connecting to a smartphone. Download the Van Moof application for the easy set up.
The most recognizable Van Moof feature is the integrated design with technology.
For some reason while Peddling around Mitte, it felt as if I were piloting Wonder Woman’s Invisible Jet, a smooth ride. The store employee told me to press a button for speed. I had a clear path, I tapped the Boost Button, suddenly, VROOM!
There is no need for lock. HUH! With the high anti thief system; the stealth lock and alarm discourages event the most determined bike napper. All bikes can be tracked. If your 2.000 euro investment happens to get stolen, Van Moof track it down, then return it. If return is not possible, the company will give you a new one. I had a look of disbelief when the store attended told me about this feature.
What I did not like about the model I used was the recharging feature. Living on the 5thfloor, a 100 stir climb with a bike for recharging, not in my book! But there is a portable recharging unit.
Van Moof is trendy and practical and fun in a time of peddle power. But, the price could put many off. Secondly, there is a lot of tech in the bike. A Van Moof can only be repaired at on the company’s centers.
My conclusion, I really liked the Van Moof. Would I buy one? Tempting. Technology combined the simple pleasure of bike riding on the city streets.
If in Berlin head over to the Van Moff store in Mitte at 42 Torstrasse for a test ride. The staff is friendly, knowledgeable and admire their product.
I have written about this subject in the past. It is easy to protest, be a part of a movement that does not involve negative consequences. Climate change activism continues to stay on the front page. Greta made the cover of Time magazine as Person of the Year.
However, does Generation Z really feel about the planet and consumption? Primark’s revenue rose 4% with more planned store openings in 2020.
I recently ran across a New York Times article on the Instagram obsessedcrowd concerning shopping. The divergent values add up the same as 2+2=3. This is the reason many fashion brands are having a difficult time understanding what these consumers want. Hate fast fashion on social media, run to the store to get a new look, post. Buy better means buy less, yet on Instagram posting the same look twice is a faux pas that will earn negative comments. Such is the life of digital “W level” celebrity. A disposable wardrobe in the closet on Saturday, throw it in the garbage on Monday, shopping again on Friday.
Climate change is a movement, but instant gratification is an entrenched modern behaviour.
Another follow up to a past story regarding Nudie Jeans I wrote a few years ago. The brand’s policy concerning sustainable fashion is not just a marketing strategy but a part of the Swedish label’s DNA. If a pair of jeans are torn or in need of mending the buyer can take them back to a repair center free of charge. I took my pair back to the store for second time to fix the rip in my pocket. After filling out the form the staff took the jeans back and politely said, “they will be ready in 3 weeks.”
I can honestly recommend buying pieces from this denim brand. I have not had any regrets in 4 years of wear. A good pair of denim are like a good charm. They give off a feeling of confidence, feeling good, looking great!
I have been a fan of Italian brand 959 from the first time I saw their collection in Berlin at a fashion trade show. Designer Pablo Ferrari upcycles car seat belts into unique stylish bags. I have two, whenever I use one there are many compliments and questions because of the eye catching design. As an accessory, it is different, a moving forward, a new horizon, and sustainable.