In 1986, a group of dreamers transformed an abandoned military camp into a place of rebirth. Lebensgarten Steyerberg, nestled in the peaceful German countryside, stands as a symbol of resilience and creativity.

Here, the land tells a story of regeneration: where there were once only forgotten structures and degraded soils, today lush gardens, eco-friendly homes, and a united community flourish. Every corner of the village reflects the founders' desire to prove that even places marked by history can become hubs of hope and innovation.

A microcosm of sustainability

Every aspect of Lebensgarten Steyerberg is designed to harmonize with Nature. The houses, built using local materials such as wood and stone, incorporate eco-friendly technologies, from natural insulation to solar panels. Rainwater harvesting and wastewater treatment systems ensure a circular management of resources.

The community garden, cultivated according to permaculture principles, is the village's beating heart. Here, residents work together to grow healthy, sustainable food, celebrating each harvest as the fruit of a deep collaboration between humans and Nature.

The cooperative economic system

The community follows a cooperative economic model that values sharing and solidarity. Internal economic activities, such as craftsmanship and food self-production, adhere to circular economy principles, minimizing waste.

Each resident contributes to sustaining the village, both economically and through practical work, participating in the maintenance of common areas and collective financing of new projects.

A participatory decision-making system

Decisions at Lebensgarten are made through inclusive processes, inspired by sociocracy. Every voice is heard and respected, and regular community meetings become moments of dialogue and collaboration. This approach strengthens the sense of belonging and ensures transparency, making every resident an active participant in shaping the village’s future.

Values and projects of Lebensgarten

Life at Lebensgarten Steyerberg is rooted in a deep relationship with Nature and personal and collective growth. The community promotes environmental education, involving schools and local groups in practical programs that teach land regeneration and sustainable resource management.

At the same time, permaculture is one of the village’s core pillars, employing advanced techniques to transform depleted soils into thriving ecosystems.

Art and culture also play a central role, with events, workshops, and exhibitions celebrating creativity as a driver of social change.

Additionally, the village collaborates with global networks and other ecovillages to share knowledge and amplify the impact of its initiatives. This exchange enriches both residents and the communities inspired by Lebensgarten's model.

A message to the world

At Lebensgarten Steyerberg, sustainability is not just a theoretical concept but a daily and collective practice. Every person who lives in or visits this ecovillage discovers that change is not a matter of infinite resources but of shared heart, vision, and courage.

Lebensgarten teaches us that, even in the face of great challenges, we can build something extraordinary when we work together for a more connected, greener, and fairer future.

Conclusion

Lebensgarten Steyerberg is a laboratory of transformation, a virtuous example of how a forgotten place can be reborn through sustainability, collaboration, and innovation.

This ecovillage experiments with permaculture, cooperative economy, and inclusive governance. Its global network and educational approach make it both a local and global model, a true beacon of hope for those who feel the call to contribute to Earth’s regeneration and rethink how we inhabit the world.