World
Cleanup
Institute
Research, Transfer and Innovation for Sustainability & Impact — connecting science, society and entrepreneurial action.
Science, Transfer &
Societal Impact
The World Cleanup Institute (WCI) is an interdisciplinary research and transfer institute at the Berlin College of Business and Technology (BCBT). It bridges rigorous academic inquiry with real-world societal practice — making sustainability measurable, teachable and actionable.
The WCI investigates Environmental Action, Circular Economy, Social Innovation and Impact Measurement. It develops certification frameworks based on ISO 26000, connects students, companies and civil society actors in joint projects — and scales community-driven environmental action across Europe through the We Create Future initiative.
Making sustainable impact visible and measurable through science, knowledge transfer and collective action.
A networked European community that shapes environment and society through research, innovation and shared action.
Interdisciplinary. Practice-oriented. Networked across Europe — with BCBT as institutional home and World Cleanup Day as global partner.
Transdisciplinary Methodology
The WCI Research Unit integrates perspectives from environmental science, urban sociology, economics and engineering. Research designs combine quantitative data analysis with qualitative fieldwork, following established standards for applied social science research.
Science-to-Practice Transfer
Findings are not published in isolation — they feed directly into the WCI’s certification frameworks, community programmes and policy recommendations. Every research project is designed with a clear transfer pathway into practice.
Impact of Community Cleanups
Rigorous measurement of environmental and social outcomes of organised cleanup activities — combining waste data, biodiversity indicators and community wellbeing metrics at local and global scale.
Environmental Behaviour Change
Longitudinal research on how participation in cleanup initiatives affects long-term environmental attitudes, pro-environmental behaviour and ecological identity formation in diverse community contexts.
Mechanisms of Societal Mobilisation
Studying the organisational, communicative and motivational mechanics of large-scale citizen mobilisation through the World Cleanup Day movement — including cross-cultural and cross-national comparative analyses.
Civic Participation Models
Models of civic engagement and their transferability: how environmental participation translates into broader civic competence, collective efficacy and democratic participation across different political and cultural contexts.
Citizen Science Integration
Development of data collection protocols enabling participants to contribute scientifically valid waste composition, litter density and ecological condition data during cleanup events.
Policy & Systemic Leverage
Translating findings into evidence-based policy recommendations for municipalities, NGOs and supra-national bodies on maximising the environmental and social co-benefits of community action programmes.
Research Design & Methods
Cluster 4.1 employs a mixed-methods approach: standardised survey instruments (n > 10,000 participants), geospatial waste mapping, longitudinal panel studies, and ethnographic fieldwork within cleanup communities. Statistical analysis follows guidelines of the American Psychological Association and the European Social Survey.
CE Models & Strategic Frameworks
Developing and evaluating circular economy frameworks for urban and industrial contexts — drawing on the Ellen MacArthur Foundation’s ReSOLVE framework, industrial ecology and urban metabolism approaches to model material and energy flows.
Sustainable Urban Development
Evidence-based approaches to city planning that integrate circular principles from the ground up: mixed-use density, short supply chains, urban farming, green infrastructure and adaptive reuse of buildings and public spaces.
Waste Prevention & Design
Upstream research on waste prevention through product design, packaging reduction and behavioural interventions — grounded in the EU Waste Framework Directive and the waste hierarchy (prevention, reuse, recycling, recovery).
Resource Efficiency Metrics
Development and application of validated metrics — including Material Flow Analysis (MFA), Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and the EU Resource Efficiency Scoreboard — to assess and benchmark city-level resource performance.
Small Business CE Transition
Applied transfer research supporting SMEs in implementing circular strategies: business model innovation, supply chain transformation and stakeholder engagement — funded through ESF+ and national BBWA programmes.
Urban Pilot Projects
Co-design and scientific evaluation of CE pilot interventions in Berlin and partner cities — from neighbourhood repair cafés to district-level material passports, providing real-world evidence for scaling.
Theoretical Foundations
Cluster 4.2 draws on industrial ecology, urban metabolism theory, sustainable transition studies (MLP framework) and behavioural economics. Methodologies include Material Flow Analysis (MFA), Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), agent-based modelling and comparative case study research across European cities.
Participation Models & Co-creation
Comparative research on co-creation, deliberative democracy and participatory design processes — applying the IAP2 Public Participation Spectrum and Arnstein’s Ladder of Citizen Participation to evaluate depth and quality of community involvement.
Youth Engagement & Agency
Studying what motivates young people to engage in sustainability action and what sustains that engagement over time — drawing on Self-Determination Theory (SDT), collective efficacy research and the science of habit formation.
Social Innovation Ecosystems
Identifying, mapping and analysing social innovations that address systemic community challenges — using the EU’s Social Innovation Framework (BEPA) and OECD typologies to assess novelty, scalability and systemic reach.
Community Design & Place-Making
Human-centred approaches to designing community spaces, programmes and governance structures — integrating design thinking methodology with community development theory and place-based evidence from Berlin neighbourhoods.
Kiez Connection: ESF+ Applied Research
Longitudinal evaluation of the Kiez Connection programme (funded ESF+ / Land Berlin / BBWA) — measuring social cohesion, civic participation and environmental behaviour change in multi-ethnic urban neighbourhoods.
Scaling Social Innovations
Research into the conditions, mechanisms and barriers for scaling social innovations from pilot projects to systemic change — including institutional embedding, policy alignment and ecosystem development.
Methodological Approach
Cluster 4.3 uses Community-Based Participatory Research (CBPR) as its primary methodology, complemented by ethnographic observation, participatory action research, social network analysis and longitudinal mixed-methods evaluation designs. Research is conducted in close collaboration with community partners to ensure relevance and co-ownership of findings.
Impact Measurement Frameworks
Development and validation of scientific frameworks for measuring social, environmental and economic outcomes — including Social Return on Investment (SROI), Theory of Change (ToC) modelling, Most Significant Change (MSC) and Contribution Analysis methodologies.
Programme Evaluation
Rigorous evaluation of NGO, city and community programmes using randomised and quasi-experimental designs where feasible, supplemented by realist evaluation and contribution tracing to establish causality in complex social interventions.
Sustainability Verification Standards
Developing credible, science-backed verification standards for organisational sustainability claims — addressing greenwashing risks through independent audit protocols, evidence hierarchies and inter-rater reliability testing.
WCI Certification Framework →
Applied framework development based on ISO 26000’s seven core subjects, translating guidance into an operational verification pathway for World Cleanup organisations globally. Click to explore.
SDG Alignment & Reporting
Research on aligning local and organisational sustainability activities with the UN Sustainable Development Goals — developing practical SDG localisation toolkits and indicators for community-level tracking compatible with the GRI Standards.
CSRD & ESG Integration
Applied research supporting organisations in meeting EU Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and ESG disclosure requirements — with a focus on accessibility for SMEs and civil society actors.
WCI Certification Framework
Housed within Cluster 4.4, the WCI develops an applied certification framework based on ISO 26000 — translated into a practical verification path for World Cleanup organisations worldwide. Scientific backing from the Research Unit ensures the framework meets the highest standards of rigour and independence.
Important Note on ISO 26000
ISO 26000 is not a classical certification standard — it is a comprehensive guidance document on social responsibility. The WCI Certification is an applied framework based on its seven core subjects. Scientific backing from the Research Unit ensures the framework meets the highest standards of rigour and independence.
The seven pillars convert ISO 26000 guidance into a practical model. Each pillar addresses a distinct dimension of organisational responsibility — together forming a complete picture of sustainable practice.
| Pillar | Focus | ISO 26000 |
|---|---|---|
| Organisational Management | Decision-making, values, ethics | Org. Governance |
| Human Rights | Protection, equality, fair treatment | Human Rights |
| Ethical Work Practices | Safe conditions, diversity, fair wages | Labour Practices |
| Environment | Climate action, waste, resources | The Environment |
| Fair Business Practices | Anti-corruption, supplier responsibility | Fair Oper. Practices |
| Consumer Concerns | Safety, data protection, transparency | Consumer Issues |
| Social Commitment | Community, volunteering, education | Community Dev. |
The WCI Certification is designed to apply to entities that demonstrate a commitment to sustainability, transparency and responsible practices, regardless of industry or geographical location.
Individual Companies or Operational Entities
Certification can be pursued by standalone organisations or business units that wish to benchmark and demonstrate their sustainability practices independently.
Corporate Groups and Multi-Entity Organisations
Large organisations with multiple subsidiaries, divisions or global operations may seek certification at a consolidated level, ensuring alignment of practices across different business units and geographies.
Supply Chains and Extended Organisations
Certification may also be applied at network level, where suppliers, contractors and partner organisations collectively adopt and integrate sustainability principles under the seven pillars framework — supporting accountability across entire value chains and strengthening transparency and resilience.
Transparency & Evidence-Based Reporting
Organisations must provide reliable, verifiable data and make available supporting evidence that validates their sustainability claims and practices across all seven pillars.
Alignment with the Seven Pillars
Applicants must actively integrate the seven foundational pillars — Organisational Management, Human Rights, Work Practices, Environment, Fair Business Practices, Consumer Concerns and Social Commitment — into their operations and reporting.
Audit, Documentation & Stakeholder Engagement
Certification requires full cooperation with the verification process: submission of documentation, participation in internal and external audits, and engagement with relevant stakeholders to validate performance and impact.
The World Cleanup Certification (WCC) distinguishes itself by combining the principles of ISO 26000 with the Seven Pillars of World Cleanup into a clear, actionable pathway. Unlike schemes that remain either too broad or too technical, WCC bridges the gap with a balanced, evidence-based and accessible model that applies across industries, sizes and regions.
| Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
|
✔️
Trusted
|
Founded on the principles of ISO 26000 and aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the WCC is built on global standards of integrity, transparency and accountability. |
|
🌐
Respected
|
Recognised for its impartiality, independence and global relevance, the certification maintains credibility across sectors and geographies, supported by rigorous audits and evidence-based assessments. |
|
⭐
Desired
|
Organisations seek the WCC as a mark of leadership, innovation and accountability, reflecting not only compliance but also a deeper commitment to societal impact and environmental stewardship. |
Submission and eligibility check
Analysis of current reports and policies
Identification of gaps relative to seven pillars
Questionnaire completion and evidence submission
Evaluation and visualisation using radar charts
Evidence checks, site audits and interviews
Issuance of certification or feedback with action plan
Annual progress and recertification every 3 years
Scientific Foundation
The WCI Certification Framework is developed by the Research Unit (Cluster 4.4) based on ISO 26000 guidance. It is aligned with the UN SDGs, the GRI Standards and the EU Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) — ensuring relevance for organisations operating under current and emerging sustainability disclosure requirements.
Community Projects
Conference/Summit, We Create Future Initiative with Kampagne, Panel & Podcast.
Impact Entrepreneurship Lab
Five programmes from Startup Programme to Circular Economy Labs.
Academic Partnerships
Joint research, Horizon Europe, Erasmus+ and student exchange.
NGO Collaboration
Co-creation, research networks and community building with civil society.
City Partnerships
Pilot projects, urban sustainability programmes and municipal cooperation.
World Cleanup Certified Organisations Network
ISO 26000-based certification with three sub-programmes.
Conference / Summit
Annual highlight: Deep Tech Award + AI + Sustainability. Keynotes, panels and live demos.
We Create Future Initiative
Year-round co-creation platform with Kampagne One Bag, Panel and Podcast.
🏆 Deep Tech Award
Annual recognition for technological innovations with a clear sustainability focus. Open to startups, research teams and institutions.
🤖 AI + Sustainability
Conference format on AI in service of sustainability — keynotes, panels and live demos from research and industry.
Networking
Curated sessions connecting founders, city representatives, NGOs and investors around the WCI ecosystem.
We Create Future Stage
Public stage integrated with the WCF Initiative — campaign launches, panel discussions and podcast live recordings.
Cleanup as a Community Platform
We Create Future turns environmental action into a structured platform. Each group gets a free kit, organises a cleanup, documents their impact and keeps the kit for future use — not a one-time event, but a continuous contribution that grows.
Register
Sign up your school, club or group. Any public space qualifies — parks, streets, rivers, beaches. No experience needed.
Receive Your Kit
Your free World Cleanup Kit arrives with gloves, vests, grabbers and recycled bags, matched to your group size.
Take Action
Go out and clean up. Collect, sort and weigh — turning your action into a measurable environmental contribution.
Document Impact
Log your results. Your data feeds into a growing picture of community-driven environmental change across Europe.
Keep the Kit
The kit stays with your class or club for future actions. One event becomes a permanent, reusable resource.
Close the Loop
Jerseys are returned, recycled and made into new kits — a genuine closed-loop circular system.
10 Countries
We Create Future launches in 2026 as a European pilot — connecting communities, sharing knowledge and building a collective movement for a cleaner continent.
World Cleanup Day
Largest civic cleanup movement — millions of volunteers in 190+ countries.
worldcleanupday.org
World Cleanup Institute
worldcleanup.org
EQA
eqasce.de
SportHubs
sporthubs.de
Cofresco International
cofresco.com
Concept
Participants collect one bag of waste in their community and share the action — creating a visible, scalable movement.
Platform
wecreatefuture.world serves as the digital hub — tracking actions, connecting participants and amplifying impact stories.
Community Integration
Students, NGOs, cities and companies can join the campaign and embed it in their own programmes.
Impact Tracking
Campaign actions are documented and feed into the WCI Impact Score and research on civic engagement.
Format
Moderated panel discussions — in-person, hybrid and streamed — on topics from circular economy to social innovation.
Speakers
Researchers, city representatives, NGO leaders, founders and policymakers in focused conversation.
Conference Integration
Panels are a core element of the annual Conference & Summit and can be held independently throughout the year.
Documentation
All panels are recorded, transcribed and published as part of the WCI knowledge base and podcast feed.
Production
Co-produced with BCBT students — providing real media production experience as part of the Impact Learning Programme.
Guests
Impact actors, NGO leaders, startup founders, city officials and WCI researchers share their stories and insights.
Distribution
Available on all major podcast platforms — extending WCI reach to audiences beyond Berlin and the academic world.
Research Link
Podcast episodes are linked to WCI research themes — making scientific findings accessible to a general audience.
Ideas & Research
Student projects & research findings
Innovation Workshops
Design Thinking & Co-Creation
Startup Programme
Business Model & Pitch
Incubation & CE Labs
Mentoring & Pilot Projects
Impact Venture
Founded startup · Scale-up
🚀 Startup Programme
Business model development, impact measurement, pitch training and mentoring.
🛠 Innovation Workshops / Panels
Design Thinking, Co-Creation, Expert Panels and Prototyping sessions.
🎓 Guest-Lectures
BCBT Startup Hub series — Founder Talks, Investor Sessions, Sustainability Experts.
🏢 Startup Incubation
Mentoring, investor networks, funding programme support, Horizon Europe.
♻️ Circular Economy Labs
CE model development, resource loops, urban CE hackathons and pilot projects.
Business Model Development
Canvas-based and lean startup approaches adapted for impact-first sustainable ventures.
Impact Measurement
Applying WCI research tools to define, track and communicate the startup's societal impact.
Pitch Training
Investor-ready pitch preparation including storytelling, financials and impact narrative.
Mentoring
Access to experienced founders, impact investors and sustainability experts in the WCI network.
Design Thinking Sessions
Human-centred problem solving applied to real sustainability challenges from partner cities and NGOs.
Co-Creation Workshops
Multi-stakeholder workshops bringing together students, organisations and researchers.
Expert Panels
Focused panel discussions with practitioners — feeding insights directly into the IEL programme.
Rapid Prototyping
From idea to testable prototype in one session — with structured feedback from the WCI network.
BCBT Startup Hub Series
Regular lecture programme in cooperation with the BCBT Startup Hub — open to all students and staff.
Founder Talks
Impact entrepreneurs share their journeys — from idea to scale — with honest discussion of challenges.
Investor Sessions
Impact investors and VCs explain their thesis, criteria and how to approach fundraising for sustainable ventures.
Deep Tech & Sustainability
Experts at the intersection of AI, technology and environmental impact — connected to the Conference format.
Mentoring & Coaching
Ongoing 1:1 support from WCI-connected founders and business mentors through the venture journey.
Investor Network Access
Warm introductions to impact investors, venture funds and angel networks aligned with sustainability.
Horizon Europe & Erasmus+
Support with EU funding applications — WCI research credentials strengthen proposals significantly.
Pilot Projects with Cities
Connecting incubated startups with WCI city partners for real-world pilot deployments.
CE Model Development
Hands-on development of circular business models across product, service and city-system levels.
Resource Loop Design
Mapping and redesigning material flows — connecting waste streams to new value creation opportunities.
Urban CE Hackathons
Intensive multi-day events developing city-scale circular economy solutions with real municipal partners.
Pilot Projects
Promising concepts are piloted with WCI partner cities — tested in real environments with measurable outcomes.
Joint Research Projects
Collaborative research with international academic partners — publishing in peer-reviewed journals and conferences.
Horizon Europe
WCI as consortium partner or lead applicant in EU research and innovation programmes.
Erasmus+ Cooperation
Staff and student mobility, joint curriculum development and strategic partnership projects.
Publications & Conferences
Shared academic output — connecting WCI research to the international sustainability science community.
Impact Measurement Support
WCI research tools applied to help NGOs measure and communicate their societal impact more credibly.
Co-Creation of Programmes
Joint development of community programmes, campaigns and initiatives between WCI and NGO partners.
Research Network Access
NGO partners gain access to WCI research outputs, methodologies and the international academic network.
World Cleanup Day Connection
Direct link to the global World Cleanup Day movement and the Let's Do It network of civil society organisations.
Pilot Projects & Co-Design
WCI student teams and researchers working directly with city administrations on sustainability challenges.
IEL Startup Pilots
Incubated startups deployed in partner cities — creating real-world testing environments for new solutions.
Policy Advisory
WCI research informing municipal sustainability strategies, circular economy plans and community programmes.
CE Lab Hackathons
Urban Circular Economy hackathons hosted in partner cities — mobilising local talent around systemic challenges.
Certification Process
The structured 8-step pathway from application to certified status — guided by WCI specialists.
Certified Community Network
The global network of verified World Cleanup organisations — visibility, exchange and collaboration.
Annual Certification Review
Yearly re-verification ensuring certified organisations maintain and improve their impact commitments.
The seven pillars convert ISO 26000 guidance into a practical model. Each pillar addresses a distinct dimension of organisational responsibility — together forming a complete picture of sustainable practice.
| Pillar | Focus | ISO 26000 |
|---|---|---|
| Organisational Management | Transparent decision-making, values, ethics, governance | Org. Governance |
| Human Rights | Protection, equality, fair treatment | Human Rights |
| Ethical Work Practices | Safe conditions, diversity, fair wages | Labour Practices |
| Environment | Resource protection, climate action, waste reduction | The Environment |
| Fair Business Practices | Anti-corruption, ethical behaviour, supplier responsibility | Fair Oper. Practices |
| Consumer Concerns | Product safety, data protection, transparency | Consumer Issues |
| Social Commitment | Community involvement, volunteering, education | Community Dev. |
World Cleanup Certification follows a proven process ensuring transparency, consistency, and alignment with international standards. The flow is continuous — each cycle feeds improvements for sustained responsibility.
Submission and eligibility check
Analysis of current reports and policies
Identification of gaps relative to the seven pillars
Evaluation and visualisation using radar charts
Evidence checks, site audits and interviews
Issuance of certification or feedback with action plan
Annual progress and recertification every 3 years
Scientific Foundation: ISO 26000
The certification framework is developed by the WCI Research Unit (Cluster 4.4) and covers ISO 26000’s seven core subjects: Organisational Governance, Human Rights, Labour Practices, The Environment, Fair Operating Practices, Consumer Issues, and Community Involvement & Development.
Application
Interested organisations begin by submitting a proposal of interest outlining their background, motivation and purpose for seeking certification.
Quick Interview
A focused 15-minute session clarifying the applicant’s objectives, expectations and suitability. Provides initial guidance and orientation.
Gap Identification
Identification of gaps relative to the seven pillars. The applicant’s current practices are benchmarked against ISO 26000 requirements.
Data Collection
Completion of a detailed questionnaire and submission of evidence documents supporting the applicant’s sustainability practices.
Analysis & Scoring
Comprehensive evaluation and visualisation of results using radar charts. Cross-checking alignment with certification requirements.
Verification & Audit
Evidence checks, site audits and interviews. Upon successful completion, the applicant is awarded certification.
Certification & Benefits
Formal recognition, access to resources, networking opportunities and community acknowledgement. Certification ID recorded in the official database.
Renewal after 24 Months
Certifications are valid for 24 months. Renewal requires updated documentation and evidence of continued activities and ongoing compliance.
Who Can Apply
Cities, NGOs, companies, academic institutions and community networks active in sustainability and environmental action.
Assessment Framework
Based on ISO 26000’s seven core subjects — adapted for practical evaluation across all types of organisations.
WCI Expert Support
Dedicated WCI staff guide applicants through every step — from gap identification to evidence collection and audit preparation.
Timeline
Typical certification process takes 8–12 weeks from application to certification decision. Renewal takes 4–8 weeks.
Public Visibility
Certified organisations are listed on the WCI Certified Network registry — a public marker of verified sustainability commitment.
Network Exchange
Regular virtual and in-person exchange between certified organisations — sharing best practices, challenges and innovations.
WCI Research Access
Members gain access to WCI impact measurement tools, research publications and methodological resources.
Conference & Summit
Certified organisations are featured partners at the annual WCI Conference — increasing their visibility and reach.
Progress Report
Certified organisations submit an annual impact report documenting progress against commitments made during certification.
WCI Evaluation
WCI Research Unit reviews progress reports and flags areas where additional support or improvement is needed.
Re-Certification Decision
Organisations meeting the annual criteria retain certified status; others receive a structured improvement plan.
Impact Score Update
Annual review results feed into the WCI Impact Score — for both the individual organisation and the overall institute score.
📚 Project Based Learning
Students work on real impact projects linked to modules across all BCBT departments.
🎯 Student Impact Projects
Independent student-led projects with real community impact and WCF Initiative integration.
🎓 ACASOL
Academic Accelerations — intensive format bridging learning and impact entrepreneurship.
🔬 Research Assistants
Scientific support roles (HiWis) embedded in active WCI Research Unit projects.
Project Sources
Challenges come from WCI partner cities, NGOs and research clusters — ensuring real-world relevance and measurable outcomes.
Cross-Department Teams
Projects intentionally mix students from Business, Technology and Entrepreneurship departments for interdisciplinary approaches.
Academic Supervision
BCBT Academic Staff supervise projects — connecting learning outcomes to module requirements and grading criteria.
Impact Documentation
Student project outcomes are documented and feed into the WCI Impact Score and partner reporting.
Student Initiative
Students propose and lead their own sustainability projects — with WCI providing mentoring, networks and resources.
Community Focus
Projects address real local or global sustainability challenges — with clear impact targets and measurement plans.
WCF Integration
Standout student projects are featured in the We Create Future campaign — amplifying student impact and visibility.
Presentation & Documentation
All projects are formally presented and documented — building student portfolios and WCI knowledge assets.
Contact ACASOL
For programme details, admission requirements and next cohort dates:
- [email protected]
- Academic Accelerations Programme · BCBT Berlin
Intensive Format
Compressed, high-intensity learning sprints — combining academic theory with immediate practical application in WCI projects.
IEL Connection
ACASOL graduates are fast-tracked into the Impact Entrepreneurship Lab's Startup Programme — bridging learning and founding.
Cohort Model
Small cohorts of 8–12 students — enabling deep collaboration, peer learning and lasting networks.
Research Integration
ACASOL participants engage directly with WCI Research Unit clusters — applying scientific methods to their projects.
Cluster Embedding
Research Assistants are assigned to specific Research Unit clusters — working alongside faculty on active projects.
Scientific Methods
Hands-on experience with research methodology, data collection, analysis and academic writing and publication.
Certification Connection
RA work may include supporting ISO 26000 framework development and impact verification research in Cluster 4.4.
Career Pathway
Strong Research Assistants are supported in applying for doctoral programmes, research fellowships and academic positions.
🏛 Institute Leadership
Scientific direction, institute management and strategic leadership of the World Cleanup Institute.
🔬 Research Team
Cluster researchers, postdocs and associated scientists from the four research clusters.
📚 Research Assistants / HiWis
Student research assistants embedded in active research projects across the four clusters.
🌐 Advisory Board
International advisory body from academia, practice and civil society providing strategic orientation.
Hon.-Prof. Holger Holland
Honorary Professor · BCBT Berlin
Maloth Surrender Naik
Operations & Project Coordination · WCI Berlin
Contact Institute Leadership
Enquiries about cooperations, research collaboration and institutional matters:
- [email protected]
- World Cleanup Institute · BCBT Berlin · Lohmühlenstraße 65, 12435 Berlin
Prof. Dr. Anabel Ternes von Hattburg
Impact Research & Social Innovation
Hon.-Prof. Holger Holland
World Cleanup Institute · BCBT Berlin
Open HiWi Positions
The WCI regularly offers new research assistant positions for BCBT students. Requirements: enrolled at BCBT, interest in sustainability research, 8–16 hours/week.
- Apply: [email protected]
- Duration: semester-based or project-based
- Remuneration per TV-L HiWi rate Berlin
Prof. Dr. Anabel Ternes von Hattburg
Sustainability, Impact Research
Dr. Dr. Daniel Linotte
World Cleanup Institute
Role of the Advisory Board
Strategic guidance for the Institute Leadership, annual quality review of the research agenda, and network expansion.
Term & Composition
Board members are appointed for 3 years — renewable. Minimum 5 members from 3 sectors.
Meetings & Format
At least 2 board meetings per year (hybrid) plus ad-hoc consultations on strategic matters.
Board Membership
Nominations may be submitted via the Institute Leadership — decision by existing board members.
🏛 Annual Conference / Summit
Das jährliche WCI-Leitformat — Keynotes, Panels, Networking und Launch neuer Forschungsergebnisse.
🌍 WCF Events & Actions
We Create Future Veranstaltungen, One Bag Aktionen, WCD-Mobilisierungsevents und Community-Sprints.
🛠 Workshops & Panels
Design Thinking Workshops, Expert-Panels, Innovation Labs und Co-Creation Sessions für alle Zielgruppen.
📅 Events Calendar 2026
Vollständige Übersicht aller geplanten WCI-Termine für das Jahr 2026 — mit Anmeldeinformationen.
Keynotes & Plenum
Hochrangige Keynote-Speakers aus Wissenschaft, Wirtschaft und Politik setzen thematische Impulse zum Jahresschwerpunkt.
Forschungspräsentationen
Cluster-Leitungen und assoziierte Forschende präsentieren aktuelle Ergebnisse — mit Zeit für wissenschaftliche Diskussion.
We Create Future Stage
Öffentliches Bühnenformat integriert in die Konferenz — für Campaign-Launches, Community-Acts und Live-Podcast-Aufnahmen.
Zertifizierungs-Award
Feierliche Übergabe der WCI Certified Network Urkunden an neue Mitglieder im Plenum der Jahreskonferenz.
Startup Pitch Stage
IEL-Startups pitchen vor Investorinnen und Partnerorganisationen — mit öffentlichem Publikum und Jury-Feedback.
Networking & Ausstellung
Kuratierte Networking-Sessions, Posterpräsentationen und Partnerausstellung — Raum für informellen Wissensaustausch.
WCI Annual Conference 2025
Datum: Herbst 2025 (genaues Datum in Abstimmung) · Ort: BCBT Berlin, Campus Lohmühlenstraße 65, · Format: Hybrid (Präsenz + Livestream)
- Anmeldung: [email protected]
- Call for Papers & Panels: Frühjahr 2025
- Partnerschaft & Sponsoring: [email protected]
World Cleanup Day 2025
Globaler Großcleanup — BCBT und WCI mobilisieren Berliner Community für stadtweite Cleanup-Aktionen.
One Bag Sprint · Berlin Mitte
Community-Cleanup-Sprint im Rahmen der Kampagne wecreatefuture.world — One Bag per Person, gemeinsam für sauberere Straßen.
WCF Panel · Nachhaltigkeit & Stadt
Öffentliches Diskussionsformat mit Expertinnen aus Stadtplanung, Zivilgesellschaft und Forschung — live und via Stream.
WCF Podcast Live-Recording
Live-Aufnahme einer WCF Podcast-Episode — mit Studierenden als Hosts und Gästen aus Praxis und Wissenschaft.
Design Thinking Workshops
Moderierte DT-Sessions für Startups, NGOs und Stadtverwaltungen — mit WCI-Forschenden als Facilitators.
Circular Economy Labs
Halbtägige Intensiv-Workshops zur CE-Modellentwicklung — mit Hackathon-Elementen und Live-Prototyping.
Expert Panels
Öffentliche Diskussionsrunden mit 3–5 Expertinnen zu aktuellen Themen aus Nachhaltigkeitspolitik und Forschung.
Innovation Labs
Mehrtägige Co-Creation-Sprints für interdisziplinäre Teams — oft in Kooperation mit Partneruniversitäten und NGOs.
BCBT Guest-Lecture Series
Öffentliche Vorlesungsreihe an der BCBT mit Gründerinnen, Investorinnen und Nachhaltigkeitsexpertinnen.
Zertifizierungs-Workshops
Begleitende Workshops für Organisationen im ISO 26000 Zertifizierungsprozess — praxisorientiert und methodisch fundiert.
Workshops buchen oder anfragen
Externe Organisationen, NGOs und Stadtverwaltungen können WCI-Workshop-Formate für eigene Kontexte anfragen — maßgeschneidert und auf Wunsch als Inhouse-Format.
- [email protected]
- Mindestvorlauf: 6 Wochen · Formate: halbtägig, ganztägig, mehrtägig
Inaugural Event BCBT
Opening Ceremony · BCBT Berlin · Inaugural Launch Event
ACASOL Programme Start
Start of the ACASOL Academic Acceleration Programme · BCBT Berlin · Impact Learning
Kiez Connection — Concept Study Presentation
Weekly presentation at Venture Cafe Berlin · Public · recurring weekly
🇧🇪 Brüssel — Kick-Off We Create Future
with EU Parliament President Roberta Metsola · European Parliament · Public
We Create Future Panel
Venture Cafe · Berlin · Public Discussion Format · Live & Stream
Inaugural Event BCBT
Opening Ceremony · BCBT Berlin · Inaugural Launch Event
🌍 World Cleanup Day 2026 — Fokusstadt Bonn
Global Cleanup Day · Bonn as WCI Focus City · WCI Community Mobilisation
Inaugural Event BCBT
Opening Ceremony · BCBT Berlin · Inaugural Launch Event
Deep Tech Award Berlin
Berlin · Technology & Impact Award · WCI as Partner
🇪🇺 Horizon Europe
EU Framework Programme for Research and Innovation — Cluster 4 and Mission Calls as strategic WCI targets.
🇩🇪 National Funding Programmes
BMBF, BMWK, DFG, Berlin Senate — funding programmes for transfer, sustainability and applied research.
🏛 Private & Foundation Funding
Foundation funding, philanthropic capital and international environment & social funds for WCI projects.
🤝 Corporate Partnerships
Strategic corporate partnerships for joint research, impact projects and IEL support.
Drittmittelstrategie WCI
The WCI pursues a diversified funding strategy — targeting at least 60% third-party funding by 2027. Core funding through BCBT; strategic growth through Horizon Europe and foundation grants.
- Funding coordination: [email protected]
- Horizon Europe advisory hours: every Tuesday
Climate, Energy & Mobility
Research applications on community-based climate action and urban circular economy in partnership with EU universities.
Cities Mission
WCI as research partner for a Berlin pilot project under the EU Mission for 100 climate-neutral cities by 2030.
Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions
Postdoc fellowship applications for WCI researchers in the areas of impact measurement and social innovation.
Consortium Building
The WCI actively seeks EU university and NGO partners for joint Horizon applications — expressions of interest welcome at any time.
EU Office Support
Weekly advisory hours on Horizon Europe applications — open to WCI researchers and external partners.
Open Science Policy
All funded WCI publications are published Open Access — in compliance with fundings requirements.
Kiez Connection
Funded by the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+) from resources of the European Union and the State of Berlin within the framework of the BBWA.
Berliner Hochschulkooperationsprogramm
Cooperation funding with Berlin universities for joint research projects and student mobility.
Individual Research Project Funding
DFG individual application for foundational research on impact measurement methodology — Cluster 4.4.
WCF Community Initiative Fund
Foundation funding for We Create Future community projects — supporting local cleanup actions and educational programmes.
Global Cleanup Research Grant
International research grant for impact research on global community cleanup (Cluster 4.1).
Impact Entrepreneurship Fellowship
Fellowships for IEL startups with exceptional societal impact — funding the startup phase for 6–12 months.
Building Foundation Partnerships
The WCI seeks strategic foundation partnerships for multi-year programme funding — ideally from 3 years duration.
Impact Reporting for Funders
All funders receive structured impact reports based on WCI Cluster 4.4 methodology.
Named Funding
Research chairs, fellowships and programme spaces can be named through philanthropic funding.
Fundraising Contact
[email protected] — für alle Anfragen zu Stiftungs- und Philanthropiepartnerschaften.
Corporate Research Contracts
Companies commission the WCI for specific research projects — e.g. CE analysis, impact assessment, sustainability market research.
Startup Programme Sponsoring
Companies co-finance IEL startups and receive access to pitches, talent pool and joint pilot projects in return.
Circular Economy Labs
Companies bring real-world challenges and co-finance CE hackathons and lab projects — tackled together with WCI teams.
Partnership Packages
The WCI offers structured cooperation packages for companies — from one-year research collaborations to multi-year strategic partnerships.
- [email protected]
- Initial consultation: within 5 working days — free of charge and non-binding
- Packages from €5,000 annually · contract research billed by effort
Information in accordance with section § 5 Digital Services Law (DDG)
Company Name
World Cleanup Institute at Berlin College of Business and Technology (“WCI”, “we”)
Registered Office
Lohmühlenstraße 65
12435 Berlin
Germany
Contact
[email protected]
Commercial Register
District Court of Charlottenburg
Registration number HRB 264473 B
Director
Hon.-Prof. Holger Holland
[email protected]
Responsible for Content
Hon.-Prof. Holger Holland
World Cleanup Institute, BCBT Berlin
Limitation of Liability for Content
The contents of this website have been compiled with the greatest possible care. However, the World Cleanup Institute does not guarantee the accuracy, completeness or timeliness of the information provided. As a service provider, we are responsible for our own content on these pages in accordance with § 7 para. 1 TMG. According to §§8–10 TMG, we are not obliged to monitor transmitted or stored third-party information. Obligations to remove or block the use of information under general law remain unaffected.
Limitation of Liability for Links
Our website contains links to external websites of third parties over whose content we have no influence. We cannot therefore accept any liability for this external content. The respective provider or operator of the linked pages is always responsible for the content. Upon becoming aware of legal violations, we will remove such links immediately.
Copyright
The content and works created by the site operators on these pages are subject to German copyright law. Duplication, processing, distribution and any form of commercialisation beyond the scope of copyright law require the prior written consent of the respective author or creator. Downloads and copies of this site are only permitted for private, non-commercial use.
1.1 Controller
The controller according to data protection law is:
World Cleanup Institute at Berlin College of Business and Technology (“WCI”, “we”)
Lohmühlenstraße 65, 12435 Berlin, Germany
E-mail: [email protected]
1.2 Data Protection Officer
You can reach our data protection contact as follows:
Data Protection Officer
World Cleanup Institute at Berlin College of Business and Technology
Lohmühlenstraße 65, 12435 Berlin, Germany
E-mail: [email protected]
2. Details of Data Processing
2.1 Website Operation
When you visit our website, we process personal data as follows. Within any consent management, you may consent to or object to processing based on legitimate interest. You can adjust your preferences at any time.
2.1.1 Provision of Website Content
Purpose: Establish a technical connection between your device and our website; maintain and improve website functionality; enhance information and data security (e.g., data stored in log files).
Categories of Processed Data: IP address, browser type and version, internet service provider, date and time of access, referring third-party websites.
Storage Period: Session data is deleted at the end of the session; log files after 7 days or upon anonymisation.
Legal Basis: Art. 6(1)(f) GDPR (legitimate interests).
2.2 Contact via Website or E-mail
If you contact us via e-mail or a contact form, we process the data you provide to handle your enquiry.
Purpose: Enable communication with the WCI; respond to enquiries about research, partnerships and events.
Categories of Processed Data: Name, e-mail address, message content, IP address and log data.
Storage Period: Data is retained for 3 months after receipt and response to the enquiry.
Legal Basis: Art. 6(1)(a) GDPR (consent); Art. 6(1)(f) GDPR (legitimate interest in responding to enquiries).
2.3 External Services & Third-Party Content
Google Fonts: This website loads fonts from Google Fonts (fonts.googleapis.com). Your IP address is transmitted to Google LLC. Legal basis: Art. 6(1)(f) GDPR. Google LLC is certified under the EU–US Data Privacy Framework.
Unsplash: Header images are loaded via Unsplash (unsplash.com) as static CDN assets. No personal data is transmitted to Unsplash in the process.
2.4 Funding & Grant Enquiries
If you submit a funding or grant enquiry to the WCI, we process the data you provide for the purpose of evaluating and responding to the application.
Categories of Processed Data: Name, organisation, e-mail address, phone number (optional), project information.
Storage Period: Data is retained for up to 6 months after conclusion of the enquiry process, unless extended by consent.
Legal Basis: Art. 6(1)(a) GDPR (consent); Art. 6(1)(b) GDPR (contract initiation).
3. Rights of Data Subjects
If your personal data is processed, you are a data subject under the GDPR and are entitled to the following rights:
- 3.1 Right of Access (Art. 15) — Request confirmation of whether we process your personal data and obtain details on processing purposes, categories, recipients, retention periods and your rights.
- 3.2 Right to Rectification (Art. 16) — Request correction or completion of your personal data without undue delay.
- 3.3 Right to Restriction (Art. 18) — Request restriction of processing if you contest accuracy, processing is unlawful, or you require data for legal claims.
- 3.4 Right to Erasure (Art. 17) — Request deletion of your personal data where processing is no longer necessary or lawful.
- 3.5 Right to Data Portability (Art. 20) — Receive your personal data in a structured, machine-readable format.
- 3.6 Right to Object (Art. 21) — Object to processing based on legitimate interests at any time.
- 3.7 Right to Revoke Consent (Art. 7(3)) — Revoke any consent at any time; revocation does not affect the lawfulness of prior processing.
To exercise your rights, contact: [email protected]
3.9 Right to Lodge a Complaint (Art. 77)
You have the right to lodge a complaint with a supervisory authority — typically in your place of residence, work or the location of the alleged infringement. For the World Cleanup Institute, the relevant authority is:
Berliner Beauftragte für Datenschutz und Informationsfreiheit
(Berlin Commissioner for Data Protection and Freedom of Information)
Alt-Moabit 59–61, 10555 Berlin, Germany
[email protected]
4. Currency and Changes
This privacy policy is valid in its current version. We reserve the right to update it in response to legal or operational changes. The latest version is always available on this website.