The importance of discussion in times of crisis is undisputed, but how do we initiate meaningful conversations about our present and future? An inspiring example of this was the intervention 'The Futures of (De)extinction' by the User Lab project group at the Museum für Naturkunde Berlin. By offering speculative, futuristic objects to touch, such as self-growing materials or synthetic natural objects, visitors were directly invited to think about the future. One visitor compared the feeling of an object to his grandmother's skin, a symbolic starting point for discussions about future materials, their biodegradability, versatility and advances in animal welfare.

Not only the sense of touch but also hearing played a role in exploring possible futures. Participants reflected on missed sounds from the past and the silent future of species extinction.

This intervention demonstrated how sensory experiences can foster a deep understanding of the value of sustainability and the need for a mindful relationship with our environment. Such interactive formats provide a platform to share personal stories and collectively reflect on the sounds we would miss in a changing world.

Further information about the project group can be found under the project User Lab