Lüneburg’s “Goals in the Box” – A Blueprint for Localizing the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals
A combination of a code, a wooden box, and a surprising journey of discovery – that’s the essence of “Goals in the Box.” What begins as a collection of seemingly random items transforms into an engaging puzzle, prompting reflection and unexpected insights. Each solved challenge unlocks a piece of the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), revealing the close connection between global challenges and everyday life.
From Global Ambition to Local Action
Developed by the Regional Environmental Education Centre Oldenburg, the Landkreis Lüneburg has adopted this innovative game to bring the SDGs to life. Jeanette Braun, involved in Education for Sustainable Development (BNE) within the Landkreis administration, explains the aim: “With this project, we aim for to make the topic more tangible and encourage students to live responsibly and critically examine ecological and social issues.”
The project’s success relies on collaborative effort. Apprentices from the Georg-Sonnin-Schule (BBS II) built the boxes, although Andreas Kiehl from the Schulbildungszentrum (SchubZ) crafted the intricate interiors. The Lebenshilfe organization contributed countless small game pieces.
Funding and Community Support
“Goals in the Box” received financial support from the Sparkassenstiftung Lüneburg and GfA, ensuring the program remains free for schools. Frank Corleis, SchubZ-Leiter, notes the positive feedback already received. The 17 boxes offer a “tangible” way to explore the 17 SDGs, bringing the issues down to a regional level. The results of each session are visually displayed in the classroom as a lasting reminder.
The Game: A Six-Hour Deep Dive into Sustainability
A typical session takes around six hours, primarily designed for upper secondary school students. Participants begin with a short film introducing the 17 SDGs, then perform in pairs to explore the boxes and complete the tasks. The game isn’t solely focused on global perspectives. it also examines how the SDGs are being implemented locally within Lüneburg.
Challenges include deciphering codes – similar to an escape room – and working through interactive materials. Students might tackle issues like poverty, hunger, clean water, or life below water. Lene Tweste and Marit Rothe, trainees with the Landkreis, tested the boxes, focusing on “Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure.” They found the game both educational and enjoyable. Louisan Bahr and Timo Schlözke, also trainees, explored “Affordable and Clean Energy,” describing it as “good to work with, more exciting than we thought, and genuinely valuable.”
SUSTIL: The Research Foundation
This initiative aligns with the broader SUSTIL project – “Scenarios for Implementing the UN Sustainability Goals in the City and Landkreis Lüneburg.” SUSTIL, a collaborative effort between the Landkreis Lüneburg, the Hansestadt Lüneburg, Leuphana University, and the BUND Niedersachsen (Elbe-Heide Regional Association), aims to address land leverage conflicts – balancing agricultural, commercial, residential, tourism, and conservation needs. The project received funding from the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF).
The SUSTIL project produced a comprehensive report in July 2025, detailing its contributions to sustainable land use in the region. The project acknowledges the interconnectedness of urban and rural areas and utilizes the UN’s SDGs as a framework for creating future scenarios and implementing practical measures.
FAQ: “Goals in the Box” and Sustainable Development
- What are the UN Sustainable Development Goals? The 17 SDGs are a collection of global goals set by the United Nations in 2015, addressing issues like poverty, hunger, climate change, and inequality.
- Who is involved in the SUSTIL project? The Landkreis Lüneburg, the Hansestadt Lüneburg, Leuphana University, and the BUND Niedersachsen (Elbe-Heide Regional Association).
- Is “Goals in the Box” available to all schools? Yes, thanks to funding from the Sparkassenstiftung Lüneburg and GfA, the program is offered to schools free of charge.
Pro Tip: Explore the Landkreis Lüneburg’s website on Education for Sustainable Development for additional resources and information on related initiatives.
To learn more about the SUSTIL project, visit the project page.
What steps is your school or community taking to address the UN Sustainable Development Goals? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
