In this context, one concept is moving to the center of attention: resilience.

Not just another buzzword

The term “resilience” originally comes from the Latin resilire, meaning “to bounce back” or “rebound.” It was first used to describe the ability of a material to return to its original shape after stress. Today, resilience refers to the capacity of people, organisations, and cities to withstand crises, adapt, and recover.

Resilience is often used loosely, but its importance is very real. It has become a key lever for advancing sustainability in cities and societies.

Why? Because resilience is what allows systems to hold together under pressure. It enables us not only to respond to crises, but to continue functioning, adapting, and moving forward despite them.

This is no longer just about climate mitigation or long-term sustainability goals. It is about ensuring that our societies, infrastructures, and economies remain stable and capable of acting in an increasingly uncertain world.

Where sustainability and resilience meet

What becomes clear is that sustainability and resilience are deeply interconnected.

Healthy ecosystems, for example, are not just a question of conservation. They directly influence how vulnerable we are to risks. Nature helps to regulate water, buffer extreme weather, and stabilise local environments, to just name a few examples. Working with nature is therefore not only good for “classic sustainability issues” like biodiversity, but a very practical way to strengthen societal resilience – and survival, in times of catastrophe or existential crisis.

The same applies to the circular economy. Keeping materials in the use cycle, reducing dependencies on global supply chains, and designing systems for reuse and repair all contribute to greater autonomy and stability. Renewable energy plays a similar role by reducing exposure to geopolitical risks and globalised, mostly fossil energy supply chains.

Resilience, in this sense, is not something separate from sustainability, but a way of making sustainability tangible and robust in the face of constant disruption.

Photo by (c) Juliane Hermann

Resilience Is built together

At the same time, resilience is not something that can be developed in isolation.

Cities, businesses, and communities are tightly interconnected and when one part of the system is under pressure, the effects quickly spread. Critical infrastructures for water, food systems, mobility, or health services rely on coordination between many different actors.

This is why resilience is not just a technical challenge. It is a social one.

It requires trust, shared understanding, and the ability to act together. It requires people who know what to do, how to communicate, and how to support each other when it matters. In short: resilience lives in relationships.

From strategy to people

Many organisations are already working on resilience strategies, but strategies alone are not enough.

Resilience only becomes real when people experience it. When they are involved, when they understand their role, and when they can actively contribute to change. When they feel like they are part of the change instead of feeling like change is being inflicted onto them.

This is where we see a crucial shift in our work: from planning transformation to actually living and doing it.

What this means for our work at co-do! lab

At co-do lab, this understanding shapes how we approach transformation. At the CSCP, our mother organisation, sustainability has been at the center of our work for 20 years. With the co-do lab, we now welcome the idea of resilience as a catalyst for transformation.

We work with businesses, cities, and society to create pathways toward a better, more sustainable future. And that means, very concretely, increasing resilience.

We do this by supporting every step along the way: developing strategies that help organisations navigate complexity; creating communities that bring together different perspectives and build shared ownership; focusing on bringing people along, because transformation only works when it is understood and supported; and designing processes that make change tangible and experiencable, so that it moves beyond concepts into real action.

A place where this becomes visible is Gut Einern, the home of co-do lab. It is more than just a innovative learning place. It is a living example of how sustainable systems can be designed with resilience in mind. Resources are reused wherever possible, cycles are closed, and the idea of circularity is not theoretical but practiced in everyday life.

It shows that resilience is not an abstract concept. It can be built, experienced, and continuously developed.

We’re in this together

If there is one thing the current moment makes clear, it is this: we cannot navigate these challenges alone.

Resilience emerges where people come together, where systems are thought of as a whole, and where action is shared.

At co-do lab and the CSCP, we have been working at this intersection for over 20 years, building bridges between different actors, fostering collaboration, and creating spaces where transformation becomes possible.

Because in the end, resilience is not just about withstanding crises. It is about shaping a future where life can thrive despite them.

Let’s join forces to navigate the challenges and transformation ahead.

From regulation to innovation

With the Right to Repair Directive and the new Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR), the EU is sending a clear message: products must become more durable, repairable and resource-efficient. Spare parts must be available. Repair information must be accessible. Product design decisions must become more transparent.

For companies in retail and manufacturing, this means adapting to new requirements for product design and supply chains, complying with increased transparency obligations, and responding to growing expectations from customers and business partners.

But beyond compliance, there is a real opportunity: companies that integrate repairability, modularity and circularity early on will strengthen resilience, sustainability, customer loyalty and long-term competitiveness.

This is where our Challenge comes in.

The Challenge: Your question, our community

As part of Circular Week 2026, a European high-level format, we invite companies to submit concrete challenges related to Right to Repair and Ecodesign:

How can business models become more repair-friendly?

How can products be designed for modularity and longevity?

How can customers be more actively involved in repair processes?

What new service or platform solutions are needed?

And how do we interest customers in repair or refurbished offerings?

Solutions from the wisdom of the crowd

The co-do lab translates your question into an open innovation challenge and shares it with a strong network of:

Apprentices, Trainees, University students, Fab Labs, Repair cafés, Circular innovators, etc.

They will develop practical and concrete concept solutions. The best ideas and the winning solutions will be showcased during Circular Week at Gut Einern – the home of co-do lab – and awarded prize money.

This creates a real co-creation space between business, civil society and young talents – generating value for all participants.

A highlight: The repair world record attempt

Another highlight of Circular Week 2026:
Our colleague Stephan Schaller is organising, together with the FAB Region Bergisches Städtedreieck and partner companies, a repair world record attempt.

The goal: to complete more repairs in one place on one single day than ever before – during a large public festival in Wuppertal and with partner satellites across NRW.

This is more than a symbolic action. It is a strong statement: repair is no longer a niche topic. It is a key pillar of economic and societal transformation. Making it a social event and easily accessible may support in offering attractive alternatives to convenient online shopping of new items.

Why you should join

By participating, companies gain fresh perspectives on upcoming regulatory requirements and receive concrete, practice-oriented solution ideas. They also benefit from increased visibility within a European high-level format, the opportunity to position themselves as frontrunners in the circular transformation, and access to young talent as well as potential new partnerships.

Become part of the Challenge

Circular Week 2026 is the stage.
Your challenge is the starting point.
Our community develops the solutions.

Would you like to submit a challenge or learn more about the Circular Week 2026?

Let’s not just talk about transformation. Let’s co-do it.

We are a start-up and do-tank for sustainable transformation.
We co-do transformation for a better tomorrow – for businesses, for cities, for society.

The Packaging Challenge: Why Good Intentions Aren’t Enough

Europe’s Circular Economy Action Plan sets out ambitious goals: reducing waste, increasing recycling and creating packaging that works within planetary boundaries. However, despite the urgency, Europe’s circular economy is stuck in reverse. Since 2018, the share of recycled materials in global consumption has actually dropped from 9.1% to 6.9%. Although regulation is becoming stricter, implementation is lagging behind. Innovations emerge, but scaling up remains slow. And consumers? Many still struggle to tell what is recyclable, reusable, or just wishful thinking.

At the co-do lab, we believe this gap between vision and reality isn’t inevitable—it’s a design challenge. Together with the Forum Ökologisch Verpacken (FÖV) and the Collaborating Centre on Sustainable Consumption and Production (CSCP), we dove deep into the future of packaging. The result? Four bold scenarios that show where we’re headed—and how we can steer the ship before it’s too late.

Using scenario planning, expert insights, and participatory workshops, we developed four plausible futures. These aren’t predictions – rather, they clarify the choices we have: Do we want a world where packaging waste disappears into clever, circular systems? Or one where half-hearted rules and lazy innovation leave us drowning in trash?

We brought together policymakers, businesses, scientists, and activists to imagine what 2030 could look like. We have determined that strict enforcement of regulations on the one hand and the willingness of the economy to innovate on the other will be key parameters for future development – and, of course, these two factors also influence each other. So let us take a look at what a future might look like in which these two core factors take on different forms:

Four Futures for Packaging in 2030

1. The Great Stagnation

A future where inertia wins.

– Weak policies, limited incentives, and short-term thinking keep the industry on autopilot.

– Recycling tech and materials innovation stall, while landfills and incinerators stay busy.

– Consumers disengage, frustrated by lack of transparency and convenience.

– Europe loses ground to regions with faster innovation and stronger policies.

The warning: Without urgent action, 2030 could look eerily like today—just with more waste.

2. Pioneers Lead, Laggards Lag

A future where a few drive change—but most wait to be forced.

– A handful of front-runner brands invest in reusable systems, smart materials, and closed-loop recycling, gaining market share and loyalty.

– Most companies stick to the status quo, waiting for regulation (or consumer pressure) to catch up.

– Consumers reward innovators, but without clear standards, greenwashing thrives.

– Global competition intensifies—European pioneers thrive, while latecomers struggle to keep up.

The question: Can market leaders alone drag the entire industry forward—or will fragmentation hold everyone back?

3. Halfway There: Compliance Without Momentum

A future where regulations exist—but fall short of real change.

– Laws are strict on paper, but their impact is diluted by patchy enforcement and bureaucratic hurdles.

– Companies meet the minimum requirements, but innovation stagnates. Recycling rates increase slowly, but breakthroughs remain rare.

– Consumers want to make better choices, but confusing systems and greenwashing undermine trust.

– Secondary materials remain scarce and expensive, which keeps demand for raw materials high.

The risk? A false sense of progress—where everyone looks sustainable, but the system stays linear.

4. Circular Transformation Takes Flight

A future where policy, innovation, and collaboration align.

– Strong, harmonized EU regulations set clear standards for recyclability, reused materials, and waste reduction—and member states actually enforce them.

– AI and automation optimize sorting and recycling, while new and better materials enter the mainstream.

– Businesses increasingly compete to also make the most sustainable packaging, not just the cheapest.

– Consumers are supported with smart labeling, deposit systems, and incentives that make circular products and packaging the easy choice.

The catch? This future demands bold harmonized regulation and leadership, investment in infrastructure, and a willingness to break from “business as usual.”

From Scenarios to Strategy: How to Build the Future We Want

So, which future do we choose? The answer lies in the decisions we make today. And here’s the good news: The best future is still on the table.

From our stakeholder workshops, we pulled out four key moves to make the circular economy real:

1: Break Down Silos

– Collaboration across the value chain—from material suppliers to retailers to recyclers—is non-negotiable.

– Transparency tools (like Digital Product Passports) can align goals and track progress.

2: Design Smarter Policies

– Regulations must be ambitious and practical—co-created with industry to ensure they work in the real world.

– Incentives (not just penalties) can drive innovation and investment.

3: Invest in What Works

– Scale proven technologies (chemical recycling, AI sorting, reusable systems) with public-private funding.

– Support SMEs—not just giants—to ensure no one gets left behind.

4: Put Retail in the Driver’s Seat

– Retailers shape consumer choices. If they demand circular packaging, the market will follow.

– Consumer education must be clear, engaging, and actionable—no more guesswork at the bin.

Why This Matters for Your Organization

Whether you’re a brand, a policymaker, or just someone who’s sick of sorting trash, this is your wake-up call. The future of packaging isn’t some distant dream – it’s being built right now.

At the co-do lab, we specialize in turning foresight into action. Our work with FÖV and CSCP shows how scenario planning, stakeholder engagement, and co-creative workshops can clarify complex challenges and reveal blind spots. How they can align diverse stakeholders around shared goals and accelerate innovation by focusing on what actually works.

The best future isn’t inevitable—it’s a choice. And it starts with asking: What role will you play?

Ready to shape the future? Explore our Futures Visioning.

P.S. Dive deeper into the findings—read the full report here—and see how these scenarios could reshape your strategy.

Transformation needs images we don’t just understand, but feel deeply. This was exactly the starting point of the transform.NRW symposium.

“Where are we now? Where do we want to go? What are we willing to dare?” – with these questions, the symposium at the Bundeskunsthalle Bonn opened two days full of exchange, inspiration and courageous visions for the future. Practitioners from design, research, politics, business and civil society came together to rethink social-ecological transformation through art, culture and design.

For us at the co-do lab, it was a special space: filled with people who translate complexity into images, stories and emotions – and who can therefore offer exactly what transformation needs most.

Head, heart and hands

Together with my colleague Stephan Schaller, I joined the panel “Networks, Accomplices and Other Allies” to introduce the co-do lab and talk about why transformation only succeeds when head, heart and hands work together.

Our work is rooted in nature-based experiences – because connection and shared experiences create the foundation that enables people to move from intention to action. That’s why it was so important for us to meet likeminded others who turn data and facts into meaningful narratives and use creativity to offer orientation and courage.

Transformation needs images that move us

Prof. Manfred Fischedick (Wuppertal Institute) emphasized in his remarks that we are facing an action gap—one that requires collective strength and the courage to take a significant leap forward. It was a reminder of what this moment calls for: transforming complexity into momentum, uncertainty into curiosity, and intentions into shared action.

How art can translate issues such as, for example, the overproduction of the textile industry into emotional experiences became clear at the end of the event, through the powerful dance performance “Tree Tree” by Japanese dancer and choreographer Kenji Shinohe. These kinds of images stay with us – and can move people to take action.

What we at the co-do lab contribute

At the co-do lab, we also aim to create experiences that touch people – and spark inspiration and momentum for the next steps of their transformation journey. At Gut Einern in Wuppertal, we enable teams to shape their future actively – through deep, shared experiences with others and nature.

Whether in our co-creation kitchen, around the campfire, in the co-do mobile or in the permaculture garden: Here, teams find spaces to think differently, decide more clearly and move from intention to action. Conversations turn into ideas. Ideas turn into impact – curious, bold, effective.

Ready for co-creation?

Do you want to experience transformation instead of merely discussing it? Are you looking for formats that connect people and spark real innovation? Do you want to prototype, explore and prepare your organisation for a future that lasts?

Then let’s explore what you’re ready to dare and how we can work together.

We co-create formats tailored to your team, your organisation or your city – so you can try out new approaches together and move into meaningful action. From team days to strategy and storytelling workshops to multi-stakeholder sessions with partners or clients.

Get in touch – we’re excited to support and shape your transformation journey alongside you.

– Author: Eva Rudolf

Many organisations, cities and companies are working hard on sustainability strategies. But as long as they do not pay attention to the needs of the people they work for and with, transformation often remains superficial. Instead of freeing up energy for future issues, structures go round in circles and intentions never turn into behaviour.

People-centred thinking means taking basic needs seriously

What does ‘people-centred’ mean for us concretely? It means recognising well-being, health and social connectedness as core elements of sustainable goals.

Psychology shows us that only when basic needs such as safety, belonging and autonomy are met, space can arise for higher goals – such as self-actualisation, creativity or social engagement. This is where sustainability emerges.

If employees are constantly under stress and do not feel involved or valued, then sustainability quickly appears to be an additional burden. Or worse: a threat. Only organisations that create space for people can unlock the potential for sustainable transformation.

Our approach: bottom-up, cross-functional, connected

At co-do lab, we support organisations, businesses and cities in creating precisely this space:

We strengthen bottom-up initiatives that actively involve employees and turn them into co-creators.

We accompany cross-functional teams that bring sustainability into their respective contexts.

We support the development of people-centred organisational cultures in which conflicts are identified, relationships are strengthened and collective energy is unleashed.

Because we are convinced that sustainable transformation does not emerge through top-down directives alone, but through the interplay of a clear vision and lively participation.

Sustainability needs head, heart and hand

For us, people-centred organisational development means enabling organisations not only to write strategies, but also to move and engage people. It is about addressing the head, heart and hands in equal measure and creating spaces in which creativity, courage and a sense of responsibility can grow.

Would you like to find out what people-centred organisational development could look like in your organisation? Let’s talk – we look forward to hearing your story.

Head, heart and hand …

Hello Transformation is an outdoor programme that blends experiential learning, systems thinking and reflective practice. It is full of real conversations and touching moments beyond PowerPoint presentations. Participants explore how sustainable transformation can be achieved through everyday decisions, team routines and organisational strategy. We create moments that shift perspectives and inspire action – because people don’t just learn about change; they practise doing it.

… brought to the team level

Not every team can step away for multiple days. However, especially teams can benefit from energising, hands-on formats that:

Build shared language & direction in a single day

Connect strategy to practice through concrete activities

Strengthen team culture with experiences you’ll remember (and reuse)

What the day can look like

The original format provides us with a full basket of opportunities to do, learn and experience. Your team day can be based on a selection of those tailored to your team’s current needs – and also enriched with what is strategically or operationally important to date. A typical flow might include:

1. Arrival & grounding in nature
Arrive in a green setting, shift gear, and set personal intentions.

2. Circularity in action
Short impulses and walk-and-talks on circular economy – from materials to everyday choices. Hands-on elements make systems visible and actionable.

3. Vertical farming encounter
Step into a repurposed container and experience urban food production up close. Taste, question, connect ideas to your context.

4. Micro-gardening: plant a seed
A small ritual with a big meaning: sowing something to nurture beyond the day – back at the office or at home.

5. Co-creation kitchen
Cook together using seasonal ingredients right from the field; translate recipes into “ingredients for transformation”. It’s playful, practical, and deeply social.

6. Campfire conversations
Guided prompts spark honest exchanges about purpose, trade-offs, and next steps. Simple, human, memorable.

7. From insight to action
Close with a crisp “first 3 moves” plan: what we start, stop, and share tomorrow.

We couldn’t do all of that with the GS1 Germany team, as they also had a one-hour bus tour to and from Cologne, followed by an evening party at their offices. This made us think of alternative formats. We came up with a personal transformation exercise that started with the seat neighbour on the bus. On the team’s way back to Cologne in the afternoon, we held a fun and inspiring quiz to help consolidate some of the learning and open up new perspectives.

Voices from the GS1 SustainDay

We are grateful that GS1 Germany was brave enough to pilot this approach with us and for the contributing participants that also provided us with feedback:

“We took the fast lane through Hello Transformation and still went deep: we laughed, harvested, cooked, and learned – sustainably, holistically, innovatively. The vertical farm was a highlight.”

“An inspiring atmosphere with lots of practical ideas to take back – circular economy made tangible.”

“From building with clay to rethinking consumption, I left with doable steps for my own life. And yes, the peas we picked for lunch were amazing.”

“Sitting on hay bales, sowing Swiss chard, and shifting focus to ‘living better’ – plus seriously delicious food. I’ll be back.”

“Even as someone seasoned in the topic, being outside changed the conversation. Planting a seed became a symbol: we’re taking this energy back to the office – greening our workspace to keep it alive.”

What teams take away

Shared clarity on what sustainability means for your work

Practical tools & habits you can implement immediately

Renewed motivation, because doing and being firmly connected beats debating

A story to keep: photos, artifacts, and a small living reminder (yes, that seed)

So, when to say “Hello Transformation”?

Hello Transformation fits different needs depending on its format. The four-day journey is ideal when a future transformation leader, a team or an organisation wants to dive deeply into transformation, building shared understanding, personal growth, and concrete roadmaps. A one- or two-day format is perfect for moments when inspiration, reconnection, and a practical push are needed quickly. Whether you are launching a new initiative, seeking to re-energise existing efforts, or simply wanting to reconnect as a team, Hello Transformation provides the grounding, perspective, and spark to make change possible.

Ready to host your own?

We’ll co-design the experience around your goals, team size, and context – on our nature campus at Gut Einern (Wuppertal) or at a suitable partner location. You bring your curiosity; we’ll bring the space, the methods, and the spark.

Let’s make transformation something your team can feel and do.

Get in touch: hello@co-do-lab.org | Learn more: co-do-lab.org/hello-transformation

Photo by (c) Juliane Herrmann

We’re collecting 100 voices, perspectives and visions of the future. Join the conversation and share your answer to the question:

What can we do today and in the future to create a world in which sustainability is the new normal?

Your thoughts, ideas, and actions matter! Here’s how you can contribute:

Email: Send your response via text, audio, or video to 100voices@co-do-lab.org

WhatsApp: Send us your answer as a text, audio, or video message: +49 202 4595810

LinkedIn: Share your answer in a post and tag our channel: co-do lab on LinkedIn

Please include your name, age and position (if applicable) in your response.

All collected voices will be showcased in a powerful and inspiring exhibition at our Grand Opening event. Don’t miss this chance to shape the conversation on the future of sustainability!

We can’t wait to hear your voice!

This fresh digital space has been thoughtfully designed to reflect who we are and what we stand for: a community-driven hub for transformation and learning. Whether you’re passionate about sustainability, organizational change, or pioneering new ways of collaboration, our new site provides you with a clear window into what we do, how we work, and how we can support your journey.

What’s New?

A clear overview of our services and offerings, from futures visioning workshops to sustainability strategy development and innovative learning formats.

Inspirational insights into our network of pioneers and the unique places we use to bring learning and transformation to life.

Ways to connect and collaborate: Whether you’re a business, NGO, local government, or an individual change-maker, you’ll discover how we can work together to create meaningful impact.

Why Now?

We believe transformation can’t wait. The challenges we face—be it in sustainability, culture, or systems change—need bold ideas and actionable pathways. Our website is here to spark ideas, open doors, and invite you to explore what’s possible when we co-create solutions together.

Let’s Explore Together

We invite you to take a look, get inspired, and reach out. Whether you’re curious about our work or ready to start your own transformation journey, you’re in the right place.