In addition to vegan, vegatarian and organic caterers advertising their services, a number of regional organic farms were represented, offering sustenance guaranteed fresh, local and sustainably grown or raised. At 3€ for a bratwurst, the price of the fantasy was evident, but this did not dampen the mood as the crowd clustered to the eating tents for shelter from the storm as well as to assuage their hunger. And the food was certainly a key attraction: one American family wandering through the crowd admitted to happening on the eco-mile quite by accident, but reported that the display which most interested them was the curry-wurst, a typical Berlin snack; of course, the curried wursts were BIO certified.

In addition to food, though, the eco-mile was rich with opportunites for TH-style shopping and green lifestyle information gathering. Locally and/or naturally crafted fashions and bags added color between the information stands of environmental organizations ranging from majors such as WWF to local clubs. Naturally, dozens of displays of unusual bicycles and bicycle gear were doing brisk business. Alternate energy displays included the small electric vehicle and 5L/day solar water distillation units pictured here as well as solar cookers, heat pumps, and windpower to fit all types of demands, including the "blo-kart" sailing go-cart.

It was a pleasure to see the famous stretch between the Golden Elsa and the Brandenburger Tor turned into an Eco-mile for one dreamy car-free day. Congratulations to the Berliners and visitors whose solidarity in spite of the weather celebrated World Environment Day 2005 with a true Berlin flair. And happy WED to the rest of you!