A new sustainable burial method called 'Reerdigung' or human composting, developed by 'Meine Erde', involves decomposing a body in a container with organic material, resulting in soil and bones after 40 days. The process is scientifically supported by the Institute of Legal Medicine at the University of Leipzig. However, the Federal Association of German Undertakers has raised concerns about transparency, independence, and safety, questioning whether pathogens could remain in the resulting soil. The pilot study has been criticized for its limited sample size and potential lack of independence, as it was commissioned and funded by 'Meine Erde'. Despite these concerns, some church representatives have expressed positive views on the process. The cost of 'Reerdigung' is currently higher than a traditional cremation.

The article discusses the public and political perception of the 'Letzte Generation' climate activism group in Germany. It questions the common belief that the group's actions harm the cause of climate protection, noting that public support for climate measures has not significantly changed. The piece also reflects on the potential political impact of the group, suggesting that while their methods may not build majorities, they are effective in garnering attention. The article further explores the societal reactions to the group's protests, including the development of a 'moral panic' and the subsequent media and political response.

Humanitarian aid efforts in Ukraine face significant challenges as public attention and donations dwindle amidst new crises and daily concerns in Germany. Anna and Enrico, founders of the International Aid Group, continue their work despite reduced financial support and increasing bureaucratic hurdles. The decline in donations is echoed by other organizations and attributed to a general desensitization to the war and the overshadowing Gaza conflict. Transparency in aid efforts is crucial due to prevalent corruption in Ukraine, with EU aid tied to anti-corruption reforms showing some progress. The psychological toll on aid workers is profound, yet it fuels their determination to continue helping those affected by the war.

The article explores the relevance of blogs in the current digital landscape dominated by social media platforms. It questions whether blogs still fit into a world characterized by short attention spans and highlights the freedom they offer for creating and sharing content.

The German Federal Ministry of the Interior's proposed amendment to the Residence Act could criminalize humanitarian organizations that assist refugees at EU external borders, equating their actions with those of professional smugglers. Legal experts and humanitarian organizations, including Mission Lifeline and Borderline Europe, express concerns that this change could hinder their work and deter volunteers. Lawyer Carsten Gericke suggests that the amendment might be a mistake and recommends its withdrawal. Humanitarian organizations have collectively called on the government to uphold the coalition agreement's commitment to the duty of sea rescue.

German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser aims to expedite the deportation of criminals and threats with new legislation, clarifying the legal distinction between 'deportation' and 'expulsion.' The article explains the conditions under which expulsion is considered, the balance of interests between the state and the individual, and the potential for deportation without criminal conviction for members of 'clan families.' It also discusses the challenges of returning asylum seekers at borders, the Dublin Regulation's impact on EU member states, and the EU's asylum reform plans for 'border procedures.' The concept of an asylum cap in Germany is debated, with legal experts highlighting the conflict with international and EU law.

The initiative 'Ärztinnen und Ärzte gegen Antisemitismus' was founded to combat antisemitism within the medical community and to advocate for the release of Israeli hostages taken by Hamas. The initiative, which includes both Jewish and non-Jewish doctors, seeks clear condemnations of antisemitism from medical institutions. The article highlights the challenges faced by Jewish doctors in Germany, including fear and discrimination, and underscores the importance of solidarity from German colleagues. The initiative has successfully prompted statements from key medical organizations and continues to engage in educational and advocacy efforts.

The initiative 'Ärztinnen und Ärzte gegen Antisemitismus' was founded to combat antisemitism within the medical community, particularly following the October 7th attacks by Hamas in Israel. Led by Roni Eichel and Juliane Marschke, the group seeks clear condemnations of antisemitism from medical institutions and support for the release of Israeli hostages. The initiative has garnered support from various medical associations and aims to raise awareness through press releases, webinars, and petitions. The German government's strong stance against antisemitism, particularly statements from Chancellor Olaf Scholz, is positively highlighted.

Green Party members in the Erzgebirge region face significant hostility and threats, particularly online, making it challenging to find candidates for local elections. Despite these difficulties, 33 individuals have stepped forward to run for various local councils. The article highlights the broader trend of increasing attacks on Green Party representatives across Germany, with 1,219 incidents reported in 2023. The situation has prompted discussions on improving the protection of politically active individuals, with a security summit planned in Thuringia.

Enrico and Anna, founders of the International Aid Group, continue their humanitarian efforts in Ukraine despite a significant drop in donations and increasing challenges. The decline in public support is attributed to donor fatigue and the overshadowing Gaza conflict. The EU's anti-corruption reforms in Ukraine have made aid delivery more complex, but necessary. Psychological insights suggest that people become desensitized to prolonged crises, impacting donation levels. The article highlights the ongoing need for transparency and immediate support to sustain aid efforts.

The article discusses the energy consumption of various household devices such as televisions, PCs, and smartphones, emphasizing the importance of energy efficiency and providing practical tips for reducing electricity usage. It highlights that larger devices and those with higher performance specifications consume more power, while smaller devices like smartphones have minimal impact on electricity bills. Expert opinions from Joshua Jahn and Sebastian Klöß offer insights into the energy costs associated with different devices and recommend measures such as turning off devices completely and using energy-efficient models to save on electricity costs.

Experts argue that it is not always necessary to have the latest technology, especially in the realm of system cameras and lenses. Used equipment, even if several years old, can still produce high-quality digital images and is more sustainable. Peter Nonhoff-Arps from 'c’t Fotografie' and Vincent Meyer from a Berlin photo specialty store provide insights on the benefits and considerations of purchasing used cameras and lenses, emphasizing the importance of testing and checking the condition of the equipment. The article highlights the cost savings and practical advantages of opting for second-hand photographic gear.

Outdoor activities often lead to encounters with nature, prompting curiosity about plant and animal species. Apps like Flora Incognita, Naturblick, and Pl@ntNet offer solutions for identifying plants and animals, leveraging smartphone technology to make the process accessible even to those without extensive botanical knowledge. Flora Incognita, developed by the Max-Planck-Institut and Technische Universität Ilmenau, is noted for its user-friendliness and comprehensive database. Naturblick, from the Museum für Naturkunde Berlin, extends its capabilities to urban fauna, making it particularly suitable for children. Pl@ntNet, a collaborative project by French research institutions, boasts a vast collection of plant images. For bird enthusiasts, the Naturschutzbund Deutschland's Vogelwelt app provides detailed bird identification, while Die Vogel App! offers offline functionality for common bird species in Central Europe.

Enrico and Anna, founders of the International Aid Group, continue their humanitarian efforts in Ukraine despite a significant drop in donations and increasing challenges. The article highlights the emotional toll on aid workers, the public's waning interest in the war, and the impact of the Gaza conflict on media coverage and donations. It also discusses the importance of transparency in donations due to corruption in Ukraine and the EU's conditional aid based on anti-corruption reforms.

The article discusses the advantages of blogging over social media, emphasizing the freedom and control it offers over content and design. Insa Schniedermeier and Lina Wöstmann provide insights on starting a blog, including the importance of choosing the right topic, understanding the technical aspects, and leveraging social media for visibility. The piece highlights the balance between the ease of using hosted platforms like Wordpress, Blogger, and Tumblr, and the greater flexibility and effort required for self-hosting.

The article discusses the challenges faced by social workers in refugee shelters and the support provided by the International Psychosocial Organisation (IPSO). Maryam Gardisi, a key figure at IPSO, explains the importance of recognizing and addressing the needs of those working with refugees. The 'Razom' project, initiated by IPSO, offers training and psychological support to professionals and volunteers, emphasizing trauma-sensitive practices and self-care. The initiative aims to improve the well-being of both refugees and those assisting them, highlighting the critical role of cultural and linguistic understanding in effective psychological care.

Enrico and Anna, founders of the International Aid Group, continue their humanitarian efforts in Ukraine despite a significant decline in donations and increasing challenges. The article highlights the psychological normalization of the war in Ukraine and the impact of the Gaza conflict on media coverage and public support. It also discusses the importance of transparency in donations due to prevalent corruption in Ukraine and the EU's conditional aid tied to anti-corruption reforms.

Carpooling offers significant environmental benefits by reducing CO2 emissions and fuel consumption. It also provides financial savings on fuel costs and reduces parking issues in cities. Reliable and safe partners are crucial for successful carpooling. Various platforms like blablacar, fahrgemeinschaft.de, bessermitfahren.de, and twogo facilitate carpooling, with some charging fees. Insurance coverage for carpooling accidents is generally provided by the vehicle's liability insurance, and tax benefits can be claimed through a distance allowance. Carpooling should not be profit-driven, with contributions only covering operational costs.

Youth crime is currently on the rise, partly due to the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic and economic issues. Criminologists Lisa Tölle and Christian Walburg explain that it is normal for adolescents to test boundaries, often leading to minor offenses. However, a small percentage engage in more serious crimes. In regions like Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt, and Thuringia, youth violence has notably increased, prompting measures such as police-school partnerships. Key risk factors include lack of parental attention, violent upbringing, financial constraints, and poor education. Male adolescents are more prone to crime due to societal norms around masculinity.

Wild animals cause significant damage to young trees, hindering climate-adaptive forest restructuring. Forestry and politics advocate for more intensive hunting to prevent wildlife damage. Hunters oppose shortened hunting seasons and higher culling targets, arguing that wildlife protection is being compromised. The German forest owners' association estimates over 20 billion euros in damage due to climate change since 2018. The federal government plans to allocate hundreds of millions of euros for climate-adaptive forest management by 2026. However, hunters and wildlife experts criticize that climate-adaptive forest restructuring is happening at the expense of wildlife. The intensified hunting measures, reflected in increased culling plans and shortened hunting seasons, are seen as detrimental to wildlife protection.

The article highlights the challenges faced by Green Party members in Erzgebirge, Germany, as they prepare for local elections amidst hostility and threats. Despite the difficulties, 33 candidates have been secured for the upcoming elections. The article also discusses the broader trend of increasing attacks on Green Party representatives across Germany, attributing the hostility to right-wing rhetoric. Key figures like Hannes Lötzsch and Dunja Schulze express their determination and the need for courage in the face of such adversity. The article also touches on the broader political climate and the role of misinformation in fueling negative sentiments towards the Greens.

Apps can help users not only enjoy nature but also identify animals and plants, providing educational tools for nature enthusiasts.

The article examines the impact of the protest group 'Letzte Generation' on climate protection efforts in Germany. It highlights the political and public reactions to the group's actions, noting that while their methods are often criticized, there is little evidence to suggest they harm climate protection efforts. The discussion includes comparisons to 'Fridays for Future' and explores the broader societal and political dynamics influencing the perception and effectiveness of climate protests.

There are multiple ways to receive linear television, including via antenna, satellite, cable, and the internet (IPTV). While satellite and cable remain the most common methods, IPTV has become increasingly popular due to its diverse offerings. IPTV services are provided by internet providers like Telekom and Vodafone, as well as platforms like Joyn and Zattoo. The main advantage of IPTV is its extensive program variety, although it requires a good internet connection and additional setup. Cable and antenna TV are simpler to set up but offer fewer channels. Upcoming regulatory changes will affect how cable TV costs are billed to tenants. The consumer protection agency warns against dubious sales tactics for new cable contracts.

There are multiple ways to receive linear television, including antenna, satellite, cable, and internet (IPTV). While satellite and cable remain the most common methods, IPTV has become increasingly diverse. Experts Nico Jurran and Michael Gundall discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each method. Satellite is prevalent in rural areas due to cable access issues, while cable is more common in urban settings. IPTV offers a wide range of programs but requires a good internet connection and additional setup. The article also highlights the upcoming changes in cable TV billing and warns consumers about misleading sales tactics.

There are multiple ways to receive linear television, including via antenna, satellite, cable, and the internet (IPTV). While satellite and cable remain the most common methods, IPTV has become increasingly popular due to its diverse offerings. IPTV services are provided by internet providers like Telekom and Vodafone, as well as platforms like Joyn, TV.de, Waipu.tv, and Zattoo. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, with IPTV requiring a good internet connection and additional setup. The article also discusses the upcoming changes in cable TV billing for tenants in Germany, effective from July 2024, and warns against dubious sales tactics by so-called media consultants.

Wild animals cause significant damage to young trees, hindering climate-adaptive forest restructuring. Forestry and politics advocate for intensified hunting to prevent wildlife damage, but hunters oppose shortened protection periods and higher culling targets. The German government plans to invest hundreds of millions of euros in climate-adaptive forest management by 2026. Critics argue that intensified hunting harms wildlife and suggest alternative measures. The article highlights the challenges and differing perspectives on balancing forest conservation and wildlife protection.

The article discusses 'Reerdigung,' a sustainable burial method involving human composting, developed by Meine Erde. The process involves placing the body in a container with organic materials for 40 days, resulting in composted remains. The method faces criticism from the Bundesverband Deutscher Bestatter for lack of transparency and independent validation. The University of Leipzig's pilot study supports the process but acknowledges limitations due to a small sample size. The Evangelische Kirche supports the method for its sustainability. Currently, 'Reerdigung' is only available in Schleswig-Holstein, with potential expansion to other regions.

The article explores the advantages of blogging over social media, emphasizing the freedom and control it offers in terms of design and content. Insa Schniedermeier and Lina Wöstmann provide insights on starting a blog, including the importance of choosing the right topic, understanding the technical aspects, and leveraging social media for visibility. The discussion includes the pros and cons of using free blog-hosting platforms versus self-hosting, highlighting the balance between ease of use and customization.

There are multiple ways to receive linear television, including via antenna, satellite, cable, and the internet (IPTV). While satellite and cable remain the most common methods, IPTV has become increasingly popular due to its program variety. IPTV services are offered by internet providers like Telekom and Vodafone, as well as platforms like Joyn and Zattoo. The main advantage of IPTV is its program diversity, though it requires a good internet connection and some technical setup. The German government has abolished the 'Nebenkostenprivileg' for cable TV, meaning tenants will need individual contracts from July 2024. The Verbraucherzentrale Rheinland-Pfalz warns against dubious sales tactics for new cable contracts.

Mobile contracts in Germany must be cancellable monthly after the minimum contract period since December 2021. Consumers are advised to switch contracts if their current one no longer meets their needs or if better deals are available. The article discusses the benefits of prepaid and postpaid contracts, emphasizing the importance of choosing sufficient data volume to avoid high costs. It also highlights the advantages of 5G technology and the need to test network reception before switching providers. Expert advice from Henning Gajek and Felix Flosbach is provided, along with statistical data from the Bundesnetzagentur.

The article discusses various apps that help users identify plants and animals, emphasizing their importance in combating 'plant blindness' and raising awareness about biodiversity. Flora Incognita, developed by the Max-Planck-Institut für Biogeochemie and Technische Universität Ilmenau, is highlighted for its user-friendliness and extensive database. Other recommended apps include Naturblick, Pl@ntNet, Vogelwelt, and Die Vogel App!, each offering unique features for identifying flora and fauna. Experts like Anke Bebber and Greta Friedrich provide insights into the benefits and functionalities of these apps.

The article provides guidance on how to handle and remove unwanted or compromising photos and videos from the internet. Legal expert Jonas Jacobsen explains the rights individuals have under the Kunsturhebergesetz (KUG) and the steps to take if personal images are published without consent. Rebekka Weiß from Bitkom and Michael Littger from Deutschland sicher im Netz e.V. offer practical advice on managing online privacy, such as setting social media profiles to private and using search engines to monitor personal information. The article also discusses the importance of contacting platform operators like Instagram and Facebook to remove unwanted content and the effectiveness of requesting search engines like Google and Bing to delist problematic search results.

Apps can help users not only enjoy nature but also identify animals and plants. These tools offer educational opportunities for nature enthusiasts.

Apps can help users not only enjoy nature but also identify animals and plants.

Apps can help users not only enjoy nature but also identify animals and plants. These tools offer educational opportunities for nature enthusiasts.

The article discusses various methods of receiving linear television, including antenna (DVB-T2), satellite (DVB-S2), cable (DVB-C2), and internet (IPTV). It highlights the prevalence of satellite and cable in rural and urban areas, respectively, and the increasing diversity of IPTV options. The article explains the advantages of IPTV, such as prioritized signals by internet providers and greater program variety, while also noting the potential for disruptions and the need for a good internet connection. It also covers the upcoming changes in German law regarding cable TV costs in rental properties and advises consumers to be wary of aggressive sales tactics for new cable contracts.

From July 2024, tenants will no longer have to pay cable TV fees as part of their ancillary costs. The article explores whether to remain loyal to cable TV or consider other TV reception options.

Outdoor activities often lead to encounters with nature, and apps can help identify plants and animals. Anke Bebber, a science communicator, discusses 'plant blindness' and the importance of recognizing plant species, especially with climate change causing species to disappear. Apps like Flora Incognita, Naturblick, Pl@ntNet, Vogelwelt, and Birdnet use smartphone technology to assist in identifying species, with features such as detailed profiles, interactive maps, and gamification. These apps are developed by various institutions and offer functionalities ranging from image recognition to audio analysis for bird songs.

Outdoor activities often lead to encounters with nature, and apps can help identify plants and animals. Anke Bebber from the Max-Planck-Institut für Biogeochemie discusses 'plant blindness' and recommends the Flora Incognita app for plant identification. Other apps like Naturblick, Pl@ntNet, and Vogelwelt are also highlighted for their features in identifying flora and fauna. These apps, often developed in collaboration with research institutions and organizations, offer functionalities such as detailed species profiles, gamification elements, and even bird song recognition, aiming to engage users with nature.

The study presents CHAP-Adult, an algorithm for classifying sitting and measuring sitting patterns using hip-worn accelerometers in adults aged 35 and older. The algorithm, based on deep learning models, was validated using data from two cohort studies and demonstrated high accuracy in predicting sitting postures and transitions. The findings suggest that CHAP-Adult can be used to generate accurate and homogenous norms and risk estimates related to sitting patterns and health, which are needed for public health recommendations. The algorithm's application to existing data could enhance understanding of the epidemiology and health consequences of sedentary behavior.

Experts suggest that buying used system cameras and lenses can be a cost-effective and sustainable choice, provided buyers avoid entry-level models and thoroughly inspect the equipment. Peter Nonhoff-Arps from 'c’t Fotografie' and Vincent Meyer, a Berlin-based camera shop owner, emphasize the importance of checking the condition of the camera body, sensor, and lenses. They recommend purchasing from dealers for the opportunity to test the equipment and receive a warranty, although this may come at a higher price than private sales. The article highlights that while older models may not meet current standards, some high-end cameras from the past decade remain worthwhile investments.

Experts suggest that buying used system cameras and lenses can be a cost-effective and sustainable option. Cameras that are no longer sold new can still produce high-quality digital images. It is advised to avoid used entry-level gear and to purchase from dealers who offer the opportunity to test the equipment and provide a warranty. The condition of the camera body, sensor, and lenses should be thoroughly checked for damage and cleanliness. The potential savings depend on the model, with up to 30% savings on current models. Used cameras up to five or six years old are generally considered a good buy, while models older than ten years may still be viable if they were high-end at the time.

Experts suggest that buying used system cameras and lenses can be a cost-effective and sustainable choice. While older models may still deliver high-quality digital images, it's advised to avoid entry-level used gear. The price difference for lenses isn't as significant, but there's a chance to find almost unused lenses at a good price. Peter Nonhoff-Arps from 'c't Fotografie' recommends purchasing from dealers for the opportunity to test and the benefit of a warranty, despite higher prices compared to private sellers. Vincent Meyer, who buys used cameras for his Berlin photography store, emphasizes checking the overall condition and cleanliness of the sensor. Savings depend on the model, with current models offering 20-30% savings. Meyer suggests that cameras up to five or six years old are worth buying, while Nonhoff-Arps notes that some models over ten years old are still recommendable, especially those from the higher mid-range and top-tier of their time.

The article examines the public and political perception of the 'Letzte Generation' climate activist group, highlighting the widespread criticism they face from various political parties in Germany. It discusses how their protest methods, such as traffic blockades, make it easy for the public to be outraged and how this has influenced the broader debate on climate activism. The text also contrasts the 'Letzte Generation' with 'Fridays for Future', noting a shift in public sentiment towards the latter. The author, Nils C. Kumkar, provides a sociological perspective on the issue, emphasizing the symbolic yet controversial nature of the group's actions.

Consumer electronics, including televisions and game consoles, account for a significant portion of household energy consumption in Germany. Televisions and game consoles are the biggest power consumers, with older and larger models using more electricity. Desktop PCs consume more power than laptops, while smartphones and smart speakers have minimal impact on energy bills. Reducing screen brightness and using smaller devices for streaming can help save energy. Switching off internet routers at night is also recommended to cut down on power usage.

The article discusses the energy consumption of various household electronics, emphasizing the importance of understanding and managing power usage for both cost savings and environmental benefits. It highlights that entertainment electronics like TVs and gaming consoles account for a significant portion of household energy consumption. The article provides insights from experts Joshua Jahn of Verbraucherzentrale Brandenburg and Sebastian Klöß from IT association Bitkom, who offer tips on reducing energy costs, such as using power strips with switches, turning off routers at night, and considering energy efficiency when purchasing new devices. It also notes that smartphones and smart speakers have minimal impact on electricity bills.

Professionals offer tips for taking memorable holiday photos, emphasizing the importance of thoughtful composition and unique perspectives. Key advice includes avoiding common tourist shots, using the rule of thirds for image composition, and taking advantage of optimal lighting during the blue and golden hours. The article features insights from travel photographers Sebastian Ritter and Charlott Tornow, who stress the significance of storytelling and experimenting with different angles to capture compelling images.

Professional photographers Sebastian Ritter and Charlott Tornow share tips for taking memorable vacation photos. They emphasize the importance of considering what to photograph, seeking unique perspectives, and telling a story with the images. Techniques such as avoiding cliché shots, experimenting with composition using the rule of thirds, and utilizing natural light during the golden hour are recommended. They also suggest moving away from automatic settings to manual ones to better control ISO, exposure time, and aperture for desired effects.

Prospective motorcycle buyers face a vast selection and must understand both the bike's functionality and their own abilities and needs on the road. Safety trainer Rainer Gurke emphasizes the importance of compatibility with the bike over aesthetics. Test rides are crucial to ensure comfort and fit, according to Michael Lenzen, Chairman of the Federal Association of Motorcyclists. The bike's size and weight should match the rider's physique, and beginners should avoid overly powerful motorcycles. Used motorcycles are a cost-effective option for beginners, allowing for experimentation without significant depreciation. Gurke advises purchasing from a reputable dealer for reliability and the possibility of recourse in case of defects, contrasting with private sellers who can exclude warranties.

The article discusses the mechanisms of personalized advertising and tracking on the internet, explaining how cookies and other tracking technologies are used to monitor user behavior and preferences. Experts from Bitkom, c't Magazine, and the Deutsche Vereinigung für Datenschutz e.V. provide insights on how users can protect their privacy by managing cookies, using privacy-focused browsers like Firefox and Brave, and search engines like Duckduckgo, Startpage, and Metager. They emphasize the importance of being aware of the data collected and shared, and the need for users to make informed decisions about their online privacy.

The article highlights the critical importance of soil as a natural resource essential for food production and its role in climate regulation, water purification, and biodiversity support. It emphasizes the unsustainable rate at which soil is being used due to poor farming practices, leading to erosion and degradation. The United Nation's General Assembly has declared 2015 as the International Year of Soils to raise awareness and promote sustainable soil management. The article warns that without significant changes in farming methods, food production will decline, unable to meet the demands of a growing population. It cites examples of successful soil restoration and the alarming statistic that at the current rate of degradation, there may only be enough soil for 60 more years of food production globally, and only 100 more harvests in the UK. The article also references John Steinbeck's 'Grapes of Wrath' as a historical example of the consequences of soil erosion.