Moritz Riedacher: From Climate Activist to Dovecote Keeper
Moritz Riedacher strolls nonchalantly through a dovecote in Stuttgart, his designer boots seemingly unfazed by the floor strewn with droppings. The 28-year-old squats down and scrapes the grime from the chipboard panels, tending to the birds during the week. He cleans their cages, inspects them for injuries, and feeds them sunflower seeds. Riedacher finds solace in this work, noting an improvement in his mental well-being compared to his days as a full-time activist.
Two years of Riedacher’s life were dedicated to the Last Generation movement. When not blocking intersections, he led protest trainings, defaced buildings, and organized gatherings in Stuttgart. He was an integral part of the "fire alarm," as the group referred to its disruptive actions. The German tabloid Bild once dubbed Riedacher "Germany’s most audacious climate activist."
A Transformation from Defiance to Stewardship
Now, Riedacher has traded the clamor of street protests for the serene cooing of doves. His transition from climate activist to dovecote keeper reflects a profound shift in his approach to environmental advocacy.
"In the past, I thought only of putting pressure on the government," Riedacher explains. "But I realized that it’s not enough to just point out problems. We also need to offer solutions."
His work at the dovecote is a tangible manifestation of this belief. By caring for the birds, he not only ensures their well-being but also contributes to the preservation of a threatened species.
The Toll of Activism
Riedacher’s previous life as an activist took a heavy toll on his mental health. The constant pressure, the negative attention, and the perceived lack of progress weighed heavily on him.
"I was always very stressed and anxious," he recalls. "I couldn’t sleep at night. I felt like I was constantly on the edge."
Finding Solace in the Unassuming
In contrast, his current role as a dovecote keeper offers a sense of calm and fulfillment. The daily routine, the connection with nature, and the tangible results of his efforts provide a much-needed respite from the intensity of activism.
"The doves don’t care about my past," Riedacher says. "They just see me as someone who takes care of them. It’s a simple but profound realization."
A Broader Perspective on Advocacy
Riedacher’s journey from climate activist to dovecote keeper illustrates the multifaceted nature of environmental advocacy. It’s not just about grand gestures or high-profile protests; it’s also about finding practical ways to make a difference, no matter how small.
"I still believe in climate activism," Riedacher emphasizes. "But I’ve learned that there are many different ways to approach it. Sometimes, the most effective way to create change is to focus on the unassuming, the things right in front of us."
