OEKOGENO e.G.
OEKOGENO e.G. is a leading citizen participation cooperative in Germany that has been committed to sustainable projects in the areas of renewable energies, inclusive housing, and sustainable agriculture for over 30 years. It promotes a solidarity-based common good economy and engages over 16,000 members.
OEKOGENO eG: A Pioneer Cooperative for a Sustainable Future
editThe OEKOGENO eG is one of the largest and most influential citizen participation cooperatives in Germany, with a history that dates back to the time of the first ecological bank in Germany, the Ökobank. With over 16,000 members nationwide, the cooperative has been committed to forward-looking ecological and social projects for over 30 years.
Key Products and Services
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Renewable Energies: The OEKOGENO eG invests in solar and wind facilities, both in Germany and abroad in Europe. So far, 10 solar and 3 wind projects have been successfully implemented, with most realized in Germany. These projects significantly contribute to the decentralized energy transition and the generation of clean energy[1][4].
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Inclusive Housing: The cooperative develops and promotes inclusive housing projects that are aligned with the need for new forms of housing and societal change. These projects include multi-generational living, housing concepts for people with disabilities, as well as for families, singles, and students. The housing projects are characterized by their energy-efficient buildings and innovative mobility and energy concepts[1][4].
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Sustainable Agriculture and Forestry: The OEKOGENO eG is committed to the sustainable use of land, water, and air. An example of this is the first agri-solar park in Ottweiler, which enables the combination of agriculture and solar energy. This initiative demonstrates how land can be used efficiently to produce both food and electricity[4].
Mission and Values
editThe OEKOGENO eG stands for a solidarity-based and sustainable common good economy. The mission of the cooperative is to prioritize climate protection and the common good and to bring about positive change through the participation of many citizens. Transparency, ethics, and trust are central values that are embedded in all business processes and decisions of the cooperative[1][4].
Sustainability Goals and Initiatives
editIn recent years, the OEKOGENO eG has invested around 220 million euros in sustainable projects. Members and foundations are engaged in these projects with private deposits and loans of about 30 million euros. The cooperative focuses on a decentralized energy transition, promotes innovative projects, and ensures a sustainable and social form of housing through its inclusive housing projects. Sustainable agriculture and the combination of agriculture and solar energy are further focal points that underline the long-term success culture of the cooperative[1][4].
Leadership and Structure
editAs of May 2024, the OEKOGENO eG will be under new leadership: Klaus Nerz and András Kaiser will form the dual leadership of the board. This change secures the management of the cooperative for the coming years and continues the course for further sustainable and social initiatives[3].
The OEKOGENO eG offers a diverse platform where citizens, municipalities, and foundations can work together for a sustainable and solidarity-based future. Through its wide range of projects and the strong participation of its members, the cooperative sets standards in ecological-social investment and in the common good.