Meerbusch goes future

The initiative emerged from the understanding that many industrialised countries focus only on local environmental actions, while the global dimension (especially the Global South) is often overlooked. To address this, the Soroptimists of Meerbusch partnered with climate-neutral companies like Sparkasse Neuss and Kyocera, as well as NGOs in Nicaragua. Together, they supported the CommuniTree reforestation project, which empowers Nicaraguan smallholder families to restore degraded lands, create jobs, and improve education and health through climate-positive development.

The project operates on two levels:

• Leading by example: The Club measured and offset its own CO₂ footprint, with members voluntarily compensating for over 100 tons of emissions.
• Advocating for systemic change: The Club promoted climate justice and gender equity through educational outreach to local schools, businesses, and citizens, mobilising broad-based support for global sustainability efforts.

To overcome organisational complexity, the German Soroptimists established the non-profit association Meerbusch Goes Future, ensuring the project’s structure could scale and welcome external partners. The educational challenge, raising awareness of global interdependence, was addressed through a “teach the teacher” approach, led by Prof. Estelle Herlyn, Club member and academic expert on sustainable development.

The impact has been substantial. With over 5,000 people reached, the project has received recognition from Soroptimist International of Europe (SIE) and was one of only two SIE projects featured in the 2024 High-Level Political Forum Report at the United Nations.

Meerbusch Goes Future proves that grassroots projects, when well-coordinated, inclusive, and visionary, can inspire action, shift mindsets, and advance the SDGs globally. The German Soroptimists have created a model that is ready to be replicated by Soroptimist Clubs worldwide.