How were you able to finance your work?

Our work is financed in a variety of ways, such as so-called sponsorships for the 120 animals on our farm, the sale of agricultural products and numerous events and educational offers. In particular, ethics lessons for school classes, private events, regular farm tours, barn cinema, readings, lectures, corporate events or vegan brunches and festivals play a special role here. In addition, the importance of our work is recognised and accordingly supported by the civilian population and institutions in both monetary and non-monetary ways.

What hurdles and obstacles did you encounter along your way and how did you deal with them?

As many of our habits and the lack of questioning of the "normal" have brought us to the point where we are today (climate change, loss of biodiversity, environmental pollution, waste of resources, massive injustices, etc.), it is important to question these habits, raise awareness and support alternatives. Even if this is done with understanding and sensitivity, it can lead to tensions, a lack of understanding and communication barriers on an individual and systemic level. Within our work, we must be aware of these potential difficulties and respond with an environment of understanding and non-judgement. This applies at all levels and is the basis and starting point of our work.

What have you had particularly good experiences with? What recommendations would you like to share with other actors?

Those who do good may or even must be aware of its value and learn to communicate it to the outside world. Those who do this and at the same time are open, infectiously positive and have a hands-on mentality will find fellow doers and receive support. Many people are looking for opportunities to make their own valuable contribution to the world they want to live in. This help can be accepted and at the same time opens up new opportunities, ideas and provides inspiration. As trite as it sounds, we are capable of so much together.

Where do you see yourself/your organisation in a few years? How do you rate your future prospects?

We will continue our work and will certainly have expanded it in certain aspects. We will also continue to be open to ideas and tasks. We are also confident that by then we will have been able to support many more farmers on their individual path to plant-based agriculture and that we will have been able to make a contribution to the agricultural and ethical transition through our work.

What are your demands for politicians?

There are numerous difficult and complex challenges that lie ahead of us as a society and various circumstances and interest groups that need to be considered and represented. This does not make the work of politicians easy, especially in times when reactionary and populist courses, "fake news" or disinformation seem to be booming. Nevertheless, the political imperative must be to drive forward the long overdue expansion of the legal community and to act in the interests of maximising the welfare of current and future living beings. To achieve this, it is essential to confront issues such as climate change, biodiversity loss etc. transparently, honestly and consistently and to take the necessary steps.