GDI must-reads 2024 As the year draws to a close, we've put together a carefully chosen selection of books that particularly impressed our researchers and staff. From social upheaval and technological challenges to perso... Retail Society Sustainability Technology Dec 14, 2024
Old furniture, fresh impetus ‘Der Schweizerische Hausigentümer’: Vintage furniture is very much in vogue. What social and ecological factors have contributed to this trend? Gianluca Scheidegger : The trend towards vintage furnitu... Retail Sustainability Oct 21, 2024
In harmony with nature in future Technological developments in biotechnology and microbiology are changing the way in which we produce and consume materials and interact with the environment. These advancements promote an economy bas... Society Sustainability Sep 5, 2024
The digital wardrobe for sustainable fashion consumption We've all been there: the wardrobe is full, but nothing seems to be suitable. Frustrated, you either reach for your favourite pair of jeans or go shopping. This is where Bianca Rangecroft comes in wit... Retail Society Sustainability Technology Aug 26, 2024
“That would be the end of fast fashion in Europe” GDI: In France, members of the National Assembly voted unanimously in favour of a draft law against ultra-fast fashion, which provides for advertising bans and penalties of up to 50% of the retail pri... Retail Sustainability Aug 19, 2024
Nick Buettner: "Healthier lifestyles are also possible in our fast-paced societies." "In a lot of our cultures, we segment our communities instead of working together to promote healthy eating," he says. This often leads to unhealthy behaviour becoming the norm. In the so-called Blue ... Food Sustainability Jul 17, 2024
From Cultivated Foie Gras to TikTok Candy Shops – Key takeaways from the 4th International Food Innovation Conference The secrets to a long life The conference began with an inspiring presentation by Nick Buettner, Vice President of Blue Zones, who spoke about the secrets behind having a long life and the food cultur... Food Health Sustainability Technology Jun 20, 2024
Milestones and potential breakthroughs in biotechnology The future of the economy lies in the bioeconomy, a field that uses biological knowledge to meet the basic needs of humanity. These findings from research into living matter not only promise an econom... Food Health Society Sustainability Technology Jun 18, 2024
Claude Fischler, expert on food culture: "It is now the responsibility of the industry to restore the good name of food processing." GDI: Mr Fischler, you’re one of the most renowned experts on food culture. What are the main elements of such a culture: its favourite dishes? Its Michelin stars? The time spent eating? Or something e... Food Society Sustainability May 28, 2024
Food culture versus cell culture - Why Switzerland is not (yet) ready for lab-grown meat A land of cheese and sausages Swiss food culture is characterised by animal products - cervelas, cheese fondue, raclette, milk chocolate and Zürcher Geschnetzeltes are (still) rarely vegan. Mr and Mr... Food Sustainability May 14, 2024
Marta Messa: "We can change food systems from the bottom up" Transforming food systems is crucial to overcoming the limits to growth and promoting social prosperity while respecting planetary boundaries, said Marta Messa, the Secretary General of Slow Food, at ... Food Sustainability Apr 17, 2024
New GDI study: The age of biology Animal-free meat, fuel from algae, and concrete from bacteria? The long-term goal of the bioeconomy is a circular economy, with bio-based manufacturing processes and renewable materials. Technological... Society Sustainability Technology Apr 9, 2024