On September 22, 2023, the #jetztklimachen award was presented, which we announced together with the city of Stuttgart. We introduce you to the award winners and let them have their say here.

We start with the "Freie Radwerkstatt 0711", which won 2nd place. Students and staff at the Stuttgart University of Applied Sciences got together and founded the "Freie Radwerkstatt 0711". Every two weeks, they spend three hours getting bikes ready to ride again. They also enable cyclists to repair their bikes themselves and provide tools, spare parts and experienced helpers. You can find out more here: https://radwerkstatt.hft-stuttgart.de/

We talked to Elena from the bike workshop team:

What was your first reaction when you heard about the prize?

Elena: Of course we were very happy. The prize is a great appreciation for our work and the prize money enables us to found our planned association. In addition, we are getting a lot of visibility, which of course helps us a lot as a new initiative.

How would you briefly introduce or describe your project to people who don't know you yet?

Elena: We have the necessary tools, a lot of spare parts and experienced helpers who will give you advice and support. We show you how to repair your bike on your own responsibility. Our support is free of charge, you only pay for the spare parts. So your bike will be ready for use again in no time.

How can people support you?

Elena: At the moment we have a very big demand. We are therefore happy about every helping hand! You don't have to be an absolute expert - it's enough if you can change tubes and pump up tires. If you would like to join us, please contact us via Instagram or the website radwerkstatt.hft-stuttgart.de.

Cycling in Stuttgart - where do you see room for improvement?

Elena: We see the greatest need for action in the infrastructure. There have been a few improvements in recent years, but compared to other cities, Stuttgart still has a lot of room for improvement. Cycling means freedom and flexibility. It would be nice if the city administration and political decision-makers would also see the great potential of bicycles as a means of transport.

Thank you very much for the interview!


By the way, the city of Stuttgart provides a great overview of all award winners here: https://jetztklimachen.stuttgart.de/jetztklimachen-preis