Using resources sparingly, creating circular systems and considering new approaches – for Katina Staleva, it’s all about transitioning to a more sustainable future: at the Technical University of Munich’s Campus Straubing for Biotechnology and Sustainability, the DAAD scholarship holder is doing a degree in bioeconomy. Her subject combines science and economics, the aim being to replace fossil resources with sustainable renewables and create a climate-friendly circular economy.
Staleva is focusing particularly on biodiversity: as one of the European Commission’s EU Bioeconomy Youth Ambassadors, she dedicates her spare time to raising awareness of the topic in Europe. Staleva believes it is also important to protect the ecosystem that is outer space. She became interested in space when a fellow student won a NASA competition to design a self-sufficient space station.
Together with other students, she explored alternative propulsion systems such as hydrogen-based launch vehicles and looked into ways of reducing space debris. Reusable rockets are one possible option. “Discussions are still at a very early stage, but it’s important to consider sustainability in as many areas as possible,” says Staleva. —