Summary
Highlights
In 1970, Freiburg, a city in southeast Germany, set a visionary goal to become sustainable, encompassing not just environmental aspects but also social and economic sustainability. Today, it's recognized as a premier example of urban sustainability.
Freiburg prioritizes social sustainability by involving local residents in decision-making processes, from neighborhood issues to city-wide plans. They focus on providing affordable housing and even consider children's views. Residents can invest in community renewable energy projects like wind turbines and solar systems, often receiving incentives such as free football tickets. Financial rewards are also offered for waste reduction efforts like composting and using reusable nappies.
As one of Germany's sunniest cities, Freiburg has invested heavily in solar technology, boasting over 400 solar panel installations. This has created over 1,000 jobs in photovoltaic cell manufacturing and more than 10,000 jobs in other environmental businesses. The city's international reputation for sustainability attracts conferences and is home to the Solar Training Center and the Institute for Solar Energy Systems, fostering further research and development in the field.
Freiburg excels in waste minimization with over 350 recycling points, leading to 90% packaging waste recycling. Residents produce significantly less non-recyclable waste than the national average. Energy for 26,000 homes is generated by burning waste from the city's biogas digester, fueled by food and garden waste collections, reducing overall waste disposal by two-thirds. Water conservation is achieved through rainwater harvesting, green roofs, permeable pavements, and unpaved tramways, minimizing impermeable surfaces. Flood risk is managed by storing excess water in retention basins.
Urban greening is a core aspect of Freiburg's sustainability. Approximately 40% of the city is forested, with over half designated as nature conservation areas. More than 40,000 native trees and shrubs have been planted. The unmanaged River Dreisam creates diverse wildlife habitats and provides drainage wetlands. This urban greenery filters air pollution, increases infiltration, reduces soil erosion, and offers recreational spaces.
Freiburg's integrated transport system is highly effective. Its extensive tram network (30 km) connects with 168 km of bus routes, ensuring two-thirds of residents live within 0.5 km of a tram stop. Frequent and affordable services, with tickets often included with event admissions, have led to a significant increase in tram use and a decrease in car journeys. The city also boasts 400 km of cycle paths and 9,000 bicycle parking spaces, with bike-and-ride facilities at all stations, promoting safe cycling. A controversial but effective measure to discourage car ownership includes making parking both scarce and expensive, with permits costing over £20,000. These initiatives have nearly doubled cycling and public transport use, while car use has declined, contrasting with trends in most high-income cities.