On July 2, 2025, this year’s plenary assembly of DIZH took place.
Despite the summer heat, around 50 participants gathered at Rämistrasse to reflect together on the connection between digitalization and sustainability.
In her welcome address, Andrea Schweizer, the new president of PHZH, spoke about the halfway point of DIZH: Over 100 funded projects within the innovation program demonstrate the vibrant culture of research and innovation across the network. Since the last assembly in July 2024, there have also been key personnel changes: New presidents have been appointed at PHZH and ZHAW, and Birk Weiberg has taken over as managing director of DIZH. Last year, a World Café provided space for discussions about the future of DIZH beyond 2029. These conversations are currently being continued in various committees and universities.
During the plenary session, representatives of current DIZH projects spoke about how they understand sustainability in their work and the methods they use to achieve sustainable goals.
Eliane Burri presented the project Digital Interfacing: The Minimalist Manifesto, which supports schools in shaping a conscious and sustainable digital transformation.
Marcel Bleuler demonstrated how digital and artistic methods can be used to make social change visible. The Public Data Lab is developing new indicators to support evidence-based decision-making.
Hanna Della Casa presented AgroPionier, a participatory project that uses Farmer Science and GIS to contribute to diversification and climate adaptation in agriculture, promoting knowledge exchange between practice and research.
In six breakout sessions addressing the thematic challenges Market, Glacier, Barrier, Terra, Lantern, and Bicycle, participants collaboratively developed project ideas. These challenges served as a starting point for interdisciplinary exchange and matchmaking.
At the subsequent networking apéro, conversations were deepened and new connections made.
Thanks to all guests and contributors!
The next plenary meeting will take place in 2026. In addition to DIZH members, the plenary assembly is open to all DIZH university members and interested parties. Please send us an email and let us know if you are interested so that we can invite you next year.