Anna, could you please briefly explain what the Green Industry Cluster is?
‘With pleasure! The Green Industry Cluster is a network of companies, research institutions and start-ups that has set itself the goal of promoting sustainable development in industry.’

And what does that mean in concrete terms…?
‘Our main concern is to strengthen the future viability of our members. At the same time, we want to reduce the environmental impact of industrial processes. Together with our members, we promote the exchange of expertise, regional collaboration on research projects and the implementation of environmentally friendly technologies.

The emphasis here is on the ‘we’: that is very important to us! We are all about togetherness. About trust. And cooperation. Together we can achieve a lot – for the region and for all of us!’

What kind of companies and start-ups do you think should be involved with the cluster?
‘Any company that is or wants to be active in the areas of sustainable production, renewable energy and resource conservation. That wants to make progress on the path of transformation – and also wants to benefit from it economically.’

And how? What are the advantages?
‘There are several: not only do you benefit from access to a broad network and their resources, but we also offer regular events, expert discussions and workshops. In this way, we support our members in their endeavours towards sustainability.

We also work together on forward-looking projects. Currently, for example, we are working on how secondary raw materials can be integrated into production processes. To paraphrase Kästner: Nothing good happens unless you do it.

In addition, the companies can discover new business opportunities, utilise synergies and prepare themselves for the future by networking in the cluster.’

You often talk about collaboration between research institutions and industry. How do you promote this?
‘Through joint projects and innovation workshops. Research institutions contribute technical expertise, while companies provide practical experience and market requirements. This creates synergistic effects that are valuable for both sides.’

And what are your goals? Where do you see the region in a few years’ time?
‘We want to develop the Rhine-Neckar region into a leading centre for green technologies. Networking and the implementation of innovative technologies contribute to the transformation – and not least to economic success and job security.

And, of course, we hope that as many companies as possible will join us on this journey in order to benefit from it: Working together is worthwhile!’

Anna, thank you very much for this interview!
‘Gladly, it was a pleasure!’