Urban development

Imagine this: It is Tuesday morning, you are riding your bike to work on a designated lane through the fresh spring air, hearing nothing but birds chirping and glimpsing the first rays of sun forecasted for the day. Does that sound relatable? Or perhaps it reminds you of a cartoon character who got dressed by singing forest animals earlier that day? For many urban residents, commutes are far from idyllic. Instead, they involve congestion, traffic noise and limited space for biking or walking – that sounds stressful. The research project FragMent investigates exactly this – how the urban environment influences stress levels and health.

Background

Stress has emerged as a significant factor contributing to the development of chronic diseases, including hypertension, anxiety disorders, and cardiovascular conditions. Extensive research has established that stress levels – and particularly chronic stress – are directly influenced by the characteristics of the urban environment. Factors such as limited green spaces, high crowd density, noise pollution, and heavy traffic have been repeatedly linked to negative health outcomes, affecting residents’ mental and physical well-being.

Project logo (Source: https://www.fragmentproject.eu/)

In response to this growing evidence, FragMent was initiated in 2022 as a five-year research project funded by the European Commission under the HORIZON programme. Coordinated by the Luxembourg Institute of Socio-Economic Research (LISER), FragMent unites an interdisciplinary international team specialising in public health, epidemiology, geography, psychology, digital health, and virtual reality. Project partners include:

Luxembourg Institute of Health
University of Zurich
Hebrew University of Jerusalem
Wageningen University
Pierre Louis Institute of Epidemiology and Public Health
Utrecht University
University of Montreal School of Public Health
Ghent University
Computer Lab of Paris 6 (Lip6)

Objectives

Addressing the evident connection between urban living and stress, FragMent aims to explore how specific urban environments, spatial features, and behavioural patterns shape stress and overall well-being. Through qualitative research and data-driven analysis, the project seeks to identify key stressors within urban spaces, such as noisy, crowded areas, and evaluate the beneficial impacts of restorative environments, like parks and green spaces.

Eventually, FragMent aims to provide concrete insights to facilitate less stressful, healthier urban lifestyles. Its findings are intended to inform urban planning strategies, guide effective public policy decisions for cities to enhance their citizens’ quality of life through stress-reducing urban design.

To delve deeper into the science behind urban health and stress, please listen to the SciLux podcast episode featuring Dr Camille Perchoux, principal investigator of FragMent.

Project activities

FragMent applies three complementary research methods:

Simulations supported by Virtual Reality (VR) allow participants to virtually walk through meticulously designed urban environments. These scenarios simulate various real-world conditions, including crowded sidewalks, busy traffic, varying levels of green surroundings, and building density. Researchers then track emotional, perceptual, and physiological reactions to identify precisely what triggers or alleviates stress.
Another significant method involves detailed smartphone-based surveys, where participants actively report their stress experiences via voice recordings and answer detailed questionnaires about their surroundings and daily activities. This data is complemented by passive sensor-based tracking, including GPS location and voice biomarkers, offering highly detailed, real-time insights into how various urban features influence stress.
The participatory and citizen-based dimension complements the methodology. Collaborative identification of stress factors and solutions is facilitated through workshops and focus groups involving residents, planners, policymakers, and scientists.

Project presentation video (Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HiqpVRjL8qA)

Early project activities, such as comparative studies of real and virtual walks in Luxembourg’s Belval district, have demonstrated the potential of VR for stress research, despite noted methodological challenges like cybersickness. The first insights also validate the effectiveness of combined qualitative and quantitative survey techniques in capturing comprehensive urban stress data. To read more about preliminary results, some first publications can be accessed here.

Outlook

Running until September 2027, FragMent will continue exploring urban stress through extensive surveys, advanced VR simulations, and ongoing dialogues with stakeholders. It remains interesting to see how the final outcomes will influence urban planning practice – hopefully making our daily commutes and urban interactions, much less stressful.

To follow project advances, visit the FragMent project website and the social media channels.

Contact:

FragMent: fragmentproject@liser.lu

References

The FragMent project (English, French and German): https://www.fragmentproject.eu/

On 9 October 2024, the second workshop in this year’s CIPU series built on the outcomes of the first workshop to further explore “The Climate-Resilient City”. Held in the city Dudelange, the workshop brought together 30 participants from Luxembourg’s municipalities and other stakeholders to explore strategies for enhancing urban resilience to climate change.

The workshop aimed to develop tools for municipalities for the development and adoption of climate resilience strategies. It continued discussions initiated in the previous CIPU workshop in June 2024 (see blog post here) and was closely tied to Luxembourg’s overarching efforts to integrate resilience into urban planning. Participants addressed the central question: “What can municipalities do to become more climate-resilient?”

As part of the CIPU’s mission, the event contributed to fostering exchange between municipalities and aligning local efforts with national and international frameworks. The workshop opened with a recap of insights from the first event and a presentation by Patricia Vilar from the Ministry of Internal Affairs Luxembourg. She provided an overview of national efforts to support municipal resilience, including the national platform for disaster risk reduction and the working group on resilient municipalities. Highlighting the importance of fostering collaboration and building networks, she connected local efforts with international frameworks such as the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction.

Presentation by Patricia Vilar from the Ministry of Internal Affairs Luxembourg (source: Zeyen+Baumann)

With this inspiring input, the participants were then divided into four groups, each tasked with addressing three of four specific aspects of establishing a climate resilience strategy. Each group developed their own results, which were later aggregated into overarching trends and outcomes.

1) How can a climate resilience strategy be developed? Participants worked on outlining a framework for creating a municipal climate resilience strategy. Each group explored the essential steps, including initiating the process, collecting and analysing data, setting priorities, and planning implementation. A key outcome was a seven-phase process to guide municipalities: from defining responsibilities and gathering data to monitoring progress and involving stakeholders through communication and participation. The discussions highlighted that municipalities with prior experience in managing climate events could rely on existing data, while those less experienced needed to focus on risk assessment. Political commitment and sufficient funding were identified as critical to success, alongside a flexible and cyclical approach that allows for adjustments as circumstances evolve.

2) How should municipalities act during a crisis? Participants addressed municipal responses to two extreme weather scenarios (severe drought and heavy rain fall), focusing on three phases: preparation, response, and recovery. Key measures in the preparation phase included assessing local needs through surveys, developing emergency plans, and creating communication strategies. Specific actions involved identifying cooling zones for heatwaves and upgrading wastewater systems for heavy rainfall. During the response phase, the focus was on effective crisis management, such as issuing warnings, ensuring access to cooling centres or evacuation zones, and maintaining critical infrastructure. Temporary measures like water fountains or sandbags were also proposed. In the recovery phase, learning from events was prioritised, with measures such as enhancing cooling zones and adapting infrastructure to prevent future risks. The results highlighted that a structured, three-phase approach helps municipalities proactively address extreme weather impacts while strengthening long-term resilience.

Group work on how to develop a climate resilience strategy (source: Zeyen+Baumann)

3) How can urban areas adapt to specific climate risks? Participants addressed how to make an existing neighbourhood more resilient to the two fictive scenarios of a heatwave (2025) and heavy rainfall (2026). The discussions centred on three goals: creating resilient public spaces and infrastructure, ensuring resilient buildings, and protecting residents’ health and safety. Proposed measures for public spaces included identifying and enhancing “cool spots” through greening and reducing impermeable surfaces, while converting vulnerable “hot spots” into green or water-retention areas. Pathways between green spaces and neighbourhoods were prioritised to improve airflow and reduce heat. For buildings, the focus was on green roofs and facades, rainwater retention systems, and enhanced thermal insulation to mitigate heat and flood risks. Financial incentives and regulations were suggested to encourage private adoption of these measures. To protect health and safety, ideas included “heat plans” and “flood plans,” clear communication systems, and providing public cooling and evacuation centres. Participants also highlighted the need to balance resilience with urban density, noting that compact urban forms often increase vulnerability. Integrating resilience into early planning stages was deemed essential for long-term success.

4) What internal structures are needed to implement resilience strategies? Participants explored the organisational structures needed to integrate climate resilience strategies into municipal administrations. Groups developed models reflecting their size, resources, and specific climate risks. Two primary approaches emerged which can be adopted simultaneously:

Hierarchy-based structure: This approach included a central resilience coordinator and task force involving key departments, such as technical services, environment, urban planning, and communication. These departments collaborate to develop, implement, and monitor strategies, supported by specialised commissions or external advisors.
Risk-based structure: This flexible approach tailored responsibilities to the scale and type of climate risks. Smaller measures, like flood barriers, could be handled by individual departments, while larger initiatives, such as city-wide greening projects, required broader collaboration across multiple teams and governance levels.

Both models emphasised the importance of cross-departmental communication, adaptable structures, and, for smaller municipalities, inter-municipal cooperation to pool resources. Regular review and adaptation of the strategy were highlighted as essential to ensure continuous improvement and preparedness for future climate challenges.

Group work phase (source: Zeyen+Baumann)

The workshop concluded with a plenary session where participants shared their findings. Emphasis was placed on the cyclical nature of climate resilience planning, the need for robust data and stakeholder engagement, and the importance of integrating resilience into all stages of urban development. The participants developed a seven-phase approach as a structured framework to guide municipalities, covering steps from initiation and risk assessment to implementation, monitoring, and continuous communication. However, it was also noted that resilience planning must be flexible and adaptable to the size, structure, and resources of each municipality. Smaller municipalities may benefit from inter-municipal cooperation, while larger ones need clearly defined roles and cross-departmental collaboration.

Following the workshop sequence, the participants had the chance to visit Dudelange’s newly built multipurpose hall (Hall Polyvalent). Constructed with sustainable materials and designed for easy disassembly and relocation, the building exemplifies the principles of circular economy. It highlights how climate-resilient infrastructure can simultaneously support sustainability and urban adaptability.

If you are interested in a more detailed description of the workshop and the results of the group discussions, you can access the documentation here: https://cipu.lu/. The insights from this workshop informed the annual CIPU conference that took place on 18 November 2024 and will additionally be incorporated in a strategic statement on climate resilient cities synthesising the events and discussions from the CIPU year 2024. It is foreseen to be published beginning of 2025.

Contact

CIPU: cipu@zeyenbaumann.lu

References

Workshop documentation – available online (German): https://cipu.lu/

The city of Differdange is strengthening energy efficiency in Luxembourg with its project Zesumme renovéieren, which promotes the sustainable renovation of residential buildings. Supported by Klima-Agence, the Ministry of Energy and Spatial Development, the Ministry of Environment, Climate and Sustainable Development, and the National Institute for Architectural Heritage (INPA), this initiative helps homeowners lower their energy consumption, improve their living conditions, and contribute to the city’s goal of reaching carbon neutrality by 2030.

Objectives and development

The main goal of Zesumme Renovéieren is to increase energy efficiency in Differdange’s residential areas. With over 4,000 properties in focus, the project offers tailored support for homeowners to renovate their homes, improve insulation, and reduce energy waste. By doing so, it helps lower CO2 emissions while making homes more sustainable.

Launched in April 2023, Zesumme Renovéieren contributes to the objectives of the Integrated National Energy and Climate Plan (PNEC) of Luxembourg and supports Differdange’s participation in the European “NetZeroCities” initiative, about which you can read in our previous blog post. The city’s commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2030 formed the basis for this pilot project.

The project identifies common building types across the city and provides renovation solutions specifically tailored to each type. A neighbourhood office, managed by a representative of Klima-Agence, acts as a central contact point for residents. Here, homeowners can get advice, connect with certified energy advisors, and receive guidance on subsidy applications and the renovation process.

Key actions towards energy efficiency

From initial assessments to the implementation of energy-saving measures, Zesumme Renovéieren” offers comprehensive support to homeowners. Some of the key activities include:

Neighbourhood analysis: Experts identified the architectural characteristics of Differdange’s neighbourhoods to offer renovation solutions that both respect heritage and improve energy efficiency. Guided tours in September and October 2023 highlighted renovation potential in areas such as Cité Sicon and Cité Breitfeld. These events also showcased how insulation techniques can preserve architectural details like mansard roofs and window bands.
Homeowner engagement: Residents can use the project’s website to receive personalised building profiles, complete with renovation recommendations, and information about available subsidies. After registering, homeowners benefit from an in-person visit by a Klima-Agence advisor to discuss suitable insulation measures and create a tailored renovation plan. Homeowners can assess the potential for renovation based on the building typologies provided in the catalogue by Klima-Agence (see figure X)

Catalogue of building typologies in Differdange (Source: https://www.klima-agence.lu/en/building-types)

Subsidy support: Homeowners who choose to move forward with their renovations get additional support. Klima-Agence covers the costs of a certified energy advisor, ensuring high-quality advice and making participants eligible for subsidies like the Klimabonus. Tools like subsidy simulator and renovation simulator help residents understand the financial aspects and plan their projects.
Neighbourhood office: Open weekly, this office provides a consistent point of contact for residents to address queries and receive hands-on support from project staff.

Thanks to these activities, the project has already seen strong participation. As of late 2023, over 170 homeowners have signed up, and the latest registration period remained open until end of November 2024.

The neighbourhood office in Differdange (Source: Klima-Agence – https://www.klima-agence.lu/en/energy-renovation-differdange-opening-neighbourhood-office-zesumme-renoveieren-project)

Outlook

Zesumme renovéieren has already made a real impact in Differdange, with more than 170 homeowners taking steps to improve their homes. The project will run until the end of 2025, continuing to offer tailored advice, technical expertise, and access to subsidies. By helping even more residents renovate their homes, the initiative contributes to the city’s vision of a more energy-efficient and sustainable future. Every completed renovation brings Differdange closer to achieving its carbon neutrality goals.

Contact

Klima-Agence: zesumme-renoveieren@klima-agence.lu

City of Differdange: energiespueren@differdange.lu

References

Klima-Agence (English, French, German): https://www.klima-agence.lu/en/zesumme-renoveieren

City of Differdange: (English, French, German): https://differdange.lu/vivre/environnement/projets/zesumme-renoveieren/

Catalogue of building typologies in Differdange: https://www.klima-agence.lu/en/building-types

On 27 June 2024, the new mobility plan (“Mobilitéitsplang”) of the City of Luxembourg was presented to the public. Its aim is to reorganise the capital’s transport system to respond to the corresponding challenges of 2035. This strategic plan addresses the challenges of population growth, environmental concerns and urban accessibility, while promoting sustainable, innovative and integrated mobility solutions.

Aim

The central goal of the Luxembourg Mobility Plan is to create a more sustainable and accessible urban transport system. It intends to prioritise public transport and active transport modes such as walking and cycling, while private motorised transport remains at the current level (2020 level). By 2035, the plan aims to achieve a modal share of 51% for public and active transport, with individual car use limited to 49%.

To achieve this, the plan is structured around five main objectives:

Regional and Cross-Regional Accessibility: The plan aims to improve public transport connections both within the city and with neighbouring regions. It focuses on optimising transport hubs and the city’s cycle path network, ensuring a seamless transition between regional and urban transport options.
Ensuring Development Perspectives: The goal is to support the urban development of Luxembourg by improving public transport and soft mobility options. This includes improving road infrastructure where possible, ensuring that all neighbourhoods have accessible transport, and facilitating connectivity between different transport modes.
Mobility for All: The plan places a strong emphasis on inclusivity, ensuring access to transport for all residents regardless of age, social status, or income. This includes expanding public spaces for people with reduced mobility and optimising existing multi-user transport options.
Preserving and Improving Quality of Life: A key objective is to reduce traffic in residential areas in order to improve public spaces and promote sustainable mobility. This includes the design of new neighbourhoods with innovative mobility concepts, such as car-free residential zones.
Environmental Protection and Sustainability: The plan aims to promote low-emission and zero-emission modes of transport, with a focus on improving road safety and reducing the negative health impacts of pollution. It also aims to optimise the use of urban space by promoting alternative modes of transport.

Proposed goals for the Mobility Plan from public consultation on 13 October 2021 (Source: Ville de Luxembourg: https://www.vdl.lu/en/getting-around/notre-plan-de-mobilite-pour-demain/mobility-plan)

Background and Development

The “Mobilitéitsplang” was launched in response to Luxembourg City’s rapidly growing population and the increasing demands on its mobility infrastructure. By 2035, the city expects a 46% increase in population and a 30% increase in employment, putting immense pressure on the existing transport system. Additionally, environmental concerns and the need for equitable access to mobility prompted the development of this comprehensive plan. Aligned with national strategies such as the National Mobility Plan (“Plan National de Mobilité” (PNM 2035)), the plan seeks to create a sustainable and accessible transport network.

Work began in 2021 and followed four phases. Phase 1: Preparation and Analysis included a detailed assessment of the current transport infrastructure, identifying key weaknesses such as road congestion and gaps in the cycling network. Phase 2: Mission Statement and Scenarios set out specific goals to guide future development, including reducing car dependency and improving public and active transport. In Phase 3: Strategies and Actions defined specific measures to improve urban mobility such as expanding the tram network and introducing bike-only lanes. Phase 4: Roadmap and Evaluation outlined the steps for implementation and created a framework for monitoring progress.

Onse Mobilitéitsplang - Déroulement du processus — Development phases of the mobility plan (Source: Ville de Luxembourg: https://www.vdl.lu/de/unterwegs/unser-mobilitaetsplan-fuer-morgen/was-ist-ein-mobilitaetsplan)

Citizen engagement was essential throughout the process, including a public launch event, an interim presentation of the study and objectives as well as an outreach event in the city centre in 2022. Latter allowed citizens to interact with city authorities, share ideas, and contribute to shaping future transportation strategies. The final mobility plan was presented on 27 June 2024, followed by a discussion between politicians, mobility experts and the public.

Measures and Actions

The “Mobilitéitsplang” is based on a thorough analysis of the current transport system of the city of Luxembourg, identifying challenges such as road congestion, close the gaps in the cycle network , and the need to improve public transport connections. Based on this assessment, several future transport scenarios were developed to anticipate the impact of population growth and increased travel demand up to 2035. These scenarios explore how different measures – such as expanding the tram and bus networks, building dedicated bike lanes, and improving pedestrian infrastructure – will shape the city’s mobility landscape. This includes three base scenarios, one “Planning Scenario” showcasing the impact of improving public transport in a sustainable manner and a “Preferential/Target Scenario for 2035”.

The analysis and the scenarios pointed out the future mobility needs of the city of Luxembourg. Accordingly, six action areas were identified:

Active/soft mobility (walking and cycling) focuses on strategies for cyclists and pedestrians. While concrete initiatives will promote cycling through infrastructure development, pedestrian mobility will be approached more strategically, with specific initiatives to be developed and implemented over time.
Public transport (local/regional) is a key element of the plan. Public transport needs to be expanded to meet the growing demand for mobility. Key initiatives include making the city’s public transport networks more efficient, optimising coordination between different systems and providers, and ensuring a high quality of service for passengers. The tram will form the backbone of urban public transport on the main axes and the city’s AVL buses will take over the fine distribution in and between the neighbourhoods.
Motor traffic addresses road traffic and parking management. The focus is on developing a functional core road network, managing traffic flows in residential areas, and using parking regulations as a tool to manage motor traffic, making efficient use of public space.
Innovative mobility emphasises mixed modalities and innovative solutions to minimise car journeys and maximise space efficiency. It promotes the introduction of sharing services and ensures the provision of charging infrastructure for e-mobility.
Commerce/ Economy assesses whether the mobility needs of businesses and industry are sufficiently met by other action areas, and exploring additional strategies to ensure the smooth operation of commercial activities.
Transport system and mobility management addresses two objectives: ensuring efficient use of infrastructure through traffic management, particularly during disruptions, and influencing individual mobility behaviour through targeted information campaigns and awareness-raising to encourage more sustainable travel choices.

Action areas in the Luxembourg City Mobility Plan (Source: Ville de Luxembourg: https://www.vdl.lu/en/getting-around/notre-plan-de-mobilite-pour-demain/mobility-plan)

To ensure the successful implementation of the action areas, the Mobility Plan outlines a monitoring and evaluation system. Regular assessments using mobility data indicators will ensure that public transport, cycling, and pedestrian strategies are effectively implemented and adapted to new challenges. Looking ahead to 2050, the plan also includes long-term development perspectives, focusing on sustained investment in sustainable transport and the integration of innovative mobility solutions to meet future demands.

Outlook

Luxembourg’s “Mobilitéitsplang” lays a solid foundation for tackling the city’s mobility challenges by 2035, but its scope extends beyond this timeline, preparing for continued growth until 2050. The need for sustainable mobility solutions will become even more important as the population and employment are expected to increase significantly, particularly in Luxembourg City and its surrounding areas. The plan anticipates denser urban development, an increasing demand for green spaces, and the need to minimise car traffic. Strategies such as expanding public transport, promoting active travel, and discouraging unnecessary commuting will be key to managing future traffic congestion. In addition, innovative solutions, such as co-working spaces and new tram connections, will ensure that Luxembourg’s transport network can accommodate growing demand, making it a resilient and adaptable city in the long term.

Contact

City of Luxembourg: mobiliteitsplang@vdl.lu

References

City of Luxembourg – Our Mobility Plan for Tomorrow (English, French, German): https://www.vdl.lu/en/getting-around/our-mobility-plan-tomorrow

Interactive brochure and download of the Mobility Plan (English, French, German): https://www.vdl.lu/en/getting-around/notre-plan-de-mobilite-pour-demain/mobility-plan

Record of the final presentation of the Mobility Plan (English interpretation): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kOR44Ozms5s

Differdange, the third biggest city of Luxembourg, is committed to becoming a climate-neutral city by 2030 as part of the EU’s NetZeroCities initiative. Key efforts include improving energy efficiency, increasing the use of renewable energy, promoting sustainable transport and reducing waste. Public engagement is central, with e.g. workshops involving citizens in policy-making.

Accueil - NetZero — Net Zero Déifferdeng 2030 (Source: https://netzero2030.lu/en/)

Aim

NetZeroCities is a platform supporting the European Union’s mission “100 Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities” and was launched as part of the Horizon Europe programme. It aims to achieve climate neutrality by 2030, bringing together 34 partners like city networks and research organisations from 13 countries. As part of this initiative, Differdange’s goal is to reach climate neutrality by reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving energy efficiency, and expanding renewable energy use, while ensuring social and economic sustainability for its inhabitants.

This aim is driven by the growing need to address climate change, particularly in urban areas which are responsible for a significant portion of global carbon emissions and are the usually densely populated. Differdange’s involvement in NetZeroCities shows its commitment to leading climate action in Luxembourg and beyond, aiming to become a greener, more sustainable city that can inspire others across Europe.

Beginnings

In March 2023, Differdange signed the Climate City Contract, a governance instrument strengthening the city’s commitment to achieve climate neutrality by 2030 at all levels. This evolving document, shaped by input from local businesses, residents and environmental experts, serves as the city’s roadmap to a sustainable future.

The initiative addresses both local and global challenges – locally, by reducing air pollution, increasing energy efficiency and improving quality of life; and globally, by tackling climate change and reducing the city’s environmental footprint.

Activities

Differdange’s strategy to achieve climate neutrality by 2030 focuses on five key objectives, which are central to its Climate City Contract:

Improving Energy Efficiency: The city prioritises the renovation of buildings to enhance energy efficiency, and aiming to reduce overall energy consumption.
Achieving Energy Autonomy: Differdange is committed to increasing its energy self-sufficiency by expanding the use of renewable energy. While solar energy has been emphasized in some of the city’s broader plans, the main objective is to reduce dependence on external energy sources by enhancing local renewable energy production.
Reducing emissions from transportation: To decrease emissions from transportation, Differdange aims to reduce individual car use by promoting sustainable mobility options.
Reducing Waste: The NetZeroCities network encourages the implementation of measures that limit waste generation, contributing to the overall sustainability of its operations and ensuring resources are managed more efficiently.
Offsetting CO₂ Emissions: For emissions that cannot be directly eliminated, Differdange is committed to compensating for its carbon output through local offset projects.

“NetZero is not just Differdange’s project, it’s everyone’s”: The city focuses on engaging its citizens in this transition. Through public workshops like “Energy savings in my household” and “Sorting, circular economy, and waste prevention”, inhabitants are invited to contribute to the co-creation of climate solutions. Community involvement is crucial to the success of such climate initiatives, ensuring that the transition is inclusive and reflects the needs of the population.

The first “City Tree” in Differdange (Source: https://differdange.lu/en/improving-the-air-naturally/)

One of several measures e.g. was the inauguration of the first “City Tree”, a moss filter installation in July 2024 on Place des Alliés. They do not only filter CO2, clean and humidify the air and thus improve air quality but also provide shade and seating.

Additionally, Differdange participates in the FUSILLI project which is funded by the EU’s Horizon 2020 programme and focuses on creating sustainable food systems. Over four years, the project supports 12 cities in developing sustainable, healthy, and inclusive food systems through open innovation Living Labs, empowering them to implement innovative actions across the entire food chain and sharing knowledge via an open community. These activities are aligned with the goals set out in the Climate City Contract under the NetZeroCities initiative.

Outlook

The NetZeroCities network provides valuable access to international expertise and resources, helping the participating cities navigate technical and financial challenges. Differdange’s commitment to achieving climate neutrality by 2030, as part of this initiative, is based on the objectives of improving energy efficiency, expanding renewable energy, promoting sustainable transport, and reducing waste. The city’s strategy is shaped not only by these technical measures but also by active citizen involvement, ensuring that the transition reflects the needs and priorities of its residents. Through public workshops e.g., Differdange is fostering a sense of shared responsibility in tackling climate change.

By maintaining this collaborative and inclusive approach, Differdange is positioning itself as a model for other cities in Luxembourg and across Europe, demonstrating that small urban centres can take action in achieving sustainability. Through these efforts, Differdange is not only reducing its environmental footprint but also setting an example of how cities can balance growth and environmental responsibility in the fight against climate change.

References

Ville de Differdange (English, French, German): https://differdange.lu/en/live/environment/projects/netzerocities/

Net Zero Déifferdeng 2030 (English): https://netzero2030.lu/en/

Inauguration of the first “City Tree” (English, French, German): https://differdange.lu/en/improving-the-air-naturally/

FUSILLI project (English): https://fusilli-project.eu/

Net Zero Cities (English): https://netzerocities.eu/

EU Mission: Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities: https://research-and-innovation.ec.europa.eu/funding/funding-opportunities/funding-programmes-and-open-calls/horizon-europe/eu-missions-horizon-europe/climate-neutral-and-smart-cities_en

This post was written by Marcela Mäder Furtado and Kirsti Hagemann

On June 10, 2024, the Cellule d’information pour la politique urbaine (CIPU) hosted its first workshop of the year, focusing on the crucial topic of climate-resilient urban development. The event took place at the Ellergronn Nature Reserve in Esch-sur-Alzette, where participants gathered to explore strategies that could help Luxembourg’s cities and municipalities adapt to the growing challenges posed by climate change.

The workshop commenced with a guided tour of the “Transition NOW” exhibition at the Ellergronn Nature Reserve. This exhibition highlighted how human activities affect the environment and the climate, underscoring the urgent need for cities to adapt to changing conditions. Following the tour, participants received a thematic introduction to key concepts such as resilience, climate resilience, and climate adaptation. Jeannot Behm, representing the city of Esch-sur-Alzette, presented the city’s ongoing activities related to climate change, resilience, and public awareness.

Guided tour through the exhibition Transition NOW at the Ellergronn Nature Reserve (Source: Ville d’Esch)

Following the introductory presentations, participants engaged in a collaborative group work phase that focused on key thematic areas related to climate-resilient urban development. Firstly, everyone moved through different groups to identify priorities and gather ideas across the four central themes: Urban and District Planning, Built Environment, Emergency Management and Crisis Communication, and Supply and Disposal Systems. These discussions were recorded on thematic posters to capture diverse perspectives and insights. In the subsequent phase, participants were divided into set groups, each focusing on one of the specific themes. They delved deeper into the identified priorities, discussing challenges, exploring potential solutions, and outlining concrete actions to enhance resilience in their respective areas.

Urban and District Planning: The discussions on urban and district planning focused on the importance of incorporating nature-based solutions to increase the resilience of cities. Participants explored the potential of the “sponge city” concept, which involves creating green spaces and water retention areas to manage stormwater and reduce urban heat islands. There was a strong emphasis on maintaining a balance between built environments and natural areas, implementing cooling strategies through tree planting and shaded public spaces, and promoting the “15-minute city” model to enhance local accessibility. Key messages included the need for comprehensive risk assessments, thoughtful urban design that prioritises sustainability, and the development of policies that encourage resilient urban planning practices.

Built Environment: In the group of the built environment, participants discussed strategies for designing and retrofitting buildings to withstand the impacts of climate change, such as heatwaves, heavy rainfall, and storms. The conversation highlighted the importance of using sustainable building materials and promoting low-tech, resource-efficient construction methods. Participants called for the development of clear legal frameworks and financial incentives to support climate-resilient architecture. Public sector building projects were seen as critical for demonstrating best practices and leading by example. The discussions concluded that a coordinated effort involving policymakers, architects, and builders is necessary to mainstream climate-resilient building practices.

Participants discussing priorities for climate resilience in urban and district planning (Source: Ville d’Esch)

Emergency Management and Crisis Communication: This group focused on the development of robust emergency management strategies and clear communication plans to ensure preparedness for extreme weather events. Participants stressed the importance of early warning systems, clearly defined action plans, and regular simulation exercises to enhance readiness. Community engagement emerged as a key theme, with discussions emphasising the need to educate the public about potential risks and appropriate responses. The session highlighted the necessity of strong coordination and the establishment of dedicated units composed of citizens and technical experts to oversee emergency management efforts.

Supply and Disposal Systems: The final group discussed sustainable approaches to managing water, energy, and waste in urban environments. Participants examined strategies for improving water quality, promoting water recycling, and implementing rainwater harvesting systems to reduce reliance on fresh water. The concept of the circular economy was central to discussions on waste management, with a focus on reusing materials and reducing overall waste production. The group also emphasised the importance of local renewable energy production and storage to ensure energy security and reduce carbon footprints. Key outcomes included the need for integrated planning that incorporates circular economy principles, local sourcing, and the exploitation of synergies between different urban systems.

Group work on identifying priorities for the different thematic fields (Source: Ville d’Esch)

After the vivid group discussions, the participants gathered in a final plenary session to reflect on the developed results. The guided tour through the exhibition “Transition Now” as well as the presentations emphasised the necessity of adapting urban spaces to the challenges imposed by climate change. The workshop highlighted the often-blurred lines between climate adaptation and climate resilience, revealing a need for clearer understanding and practical knowledge in these areas. Political support, resource allocation, public awareness, and effective collaboration among stakeholders were recognised as essential for the successful implementation of these strategies. Clear political and legal frameworks, both at the national and local level, were also deemed critical to support these efforts.

Building on these outcomes, the second CIPU workshop, which will take place on October 9, 2024, will focus on developing key elements of a climate resilience strategy at municipal level to strengthen Luxembourg’s urban areas. The goal is to identify starting points to actionable solutions that can be quickly implemented and contribute to long-term sustainable urban development, further sharpening the approaches discussed in this workshop.

If you are interested in a more detailed description of the workshop and the results of the group discussions, you can access the documentation here.

Contact

CIPU: cipu@zeyenbaumann.lu

References

Workshop documentation (German): https://cipu.lu/
Resilience plan Esch-sur-Alzette: https://administration.esch.lu/2023/01/27/esch-pionniere-presente-son-plan-de-resilience/
The title image has been created with ChatGPT (DALL-E)

Amidst climate change, resource scarcity, and social inequality, the “Productive City” emerges as a transformative concept for making cities more sustainable, resilient, and liveable. By seamlessly integrating living, working, and leisure spaces, this model can strengthen local economies, create jobs, and foster vibrant, inclusive communities. In 2023, CIPU focused on exploring and advancing this vision for Luxembourg, promoting and raising awareness about innovative solutions to embed productive functions within urban areas.

The Productive City

The Productive City concept addresses urban challenges by combining residential, commercial, and industrial functions in compact urban spaces, tackling issues such as long commutes, pollution and economic vulnerability. The proximity of workplaces to residential areas has the dual benefit of reducing traffic and emissions while simultaneously creating local jobs and supporting economic resilience. This model also promotes efficient land use, diverse housing, and employment opportunities, which in turn foster inclusive communities and improve quality of life. Furthermore, the concept has the potential to relieve the tense Luxembourgish housing market while simultaneously revitalising neighbourhoods through diverse uses.

A productive 2023

Throughout 2023, CIPU organised several events centred around the multifunctional and productive City. These events provided platforms for in-depth discussions, practical insights, and collaborative efforts to advance the productive city concept. These key results are described in a summarising statement by CIPU which you can access here.

Workshops

On June 27, 2023, the first CIPU workshop of the year was held at the 1535° Creative Hub in Differdange, focusing on functional mix in new and existing developments. The goal of the workshop was to explore strategies for integrating diverse functions within urban spaces to promote sustainable and vibrant communities. Key discussion points included the challenges of zoning regulations, the importance of engaging local communities, and innovative design solutions for mixed-use developments. Conclusions highlighted the need for flexible policies to facilitate functional integration, the benefits of community involvement in planning processes, and the potential for creative architectural solutions to address urban development challenges.

First workshop in Differdange (Source: Melt Studio)

The second workshop, held in October, built on the results of the first and focused on integrating productive functions in urban areas, exploring strategies to incorporate craft and production activities into residential neighbourhoods. Key discussions revolved around developing municipal strategies, addressing technical challenges, and proposing regulatory adjustments. Participants concluded that national-level coordination, flexible building designs, and clear usage guidelines are essential for successful implementation. They emphasised the need for specific zoning within urban plans and highlighted the importance of creating a central database for potential sites and businesses. The workshop underscored the necessity of integrated national and local efforts to promote the productive city model, aiming to create sustainable and vibrant urban environments in Luxembourg.

You can access further information on the workshops in previous blog posts as well as in the documentations on our currently temporary website linked below.

Second workshop in Luxembourg city (Source: Ville de Luxembourg)

Field Trip to Brussels

In August 2023, a field trip to Brussels provided participants with first-hand insights into examples of the productive city concept in action. The trip included visits to a variety of architectural and urban projects, including mixed-use housing, historic sites, new constructions, and renovation/reconversion projects. Key sites visited included the former Veterinary School in Cureghem, City Dox, CityGate, Tour & Taxis, Tivoli GreenCity, and the Greenbizz SME Park, with guided tours from ARAU and La Fonderie Brussels.

Final Conference

The year’s activities culminated in a final conference on 8th December 2023. This event aimed to summarise the key discussions, insights, and outcomes of the year’s activities. The conference provided a platform to present the conclusions of the workshops and field trip and to outline strategic directions for the future. The event commenced with welcome addresses by the Minister for Housing and Spatial Planning Claude Meisch and the Director General of the Chambre des Métiers Luxembourg Tom Wirion. It featured insightful presentations on the functional mix of craft and production in urban areas from various perspectives. Gérard Thein (PMEsch – Handwierkerhaff by Escher Betriber x 2001 x Ville d’Esch) and Alexandre Meyer (Intencity_fr) shared the business viewpoint, Prof. Dr. Stefan Gärtner (Institut Arbeit und Technik) and Daisy Wagner (Ville d’Esch) provided insights into urban development, and Yves Biwer (AGORA Luxembourg) highlighted project development perspectives. The event concluded with an interactive networking space where participants engaged with national experts on the challenges of the productive city.

CIPU conference 2023 (Source: Emile Hengen – Ville d’Esch-sur-Alzette)

These activities have brought together experts from various fields and have enriched by their contributions and exchanges: urban planners, architects, experts and representatives from Luxembourgish municipalities and ministries agencies, real estate and public housing developers, local businesses, Chamber of Crafts (Chambre des Métiers), the Fire and Rescue Service (Corps grand-ducal d’incendie et de secours (CGDIS), the Labour and Mines Inspectorate (Inspection du travail et des mines (ITM)).

Insights and Challenges – the CIPU statement on the productive city

The discussions and activities of 2023 provided critical insights into the topic of multifunctionality in the city, with a focus on production. The productive city is an innovative approach to address critical challenges such as climate change, resource scarcity, and social inequality. It aims to make cities more sustainable, resilient, and liveable by mixing production and residential areas. Integrating production in urban areas strengthens the local economy, creates jobs, promotes sustainability, and contributes to a vibrant and diverse urban landscape. The functional mix also reduces social inequalities and fosters a lively urban community.

The final CIPU statement draws conclusions for the following four levels of implementation:

National/Regional Level: A national strategy is crucial, including defining types of crafts, creating a database of potential sites, and enhancing infrastructure for short distances. Collaboration between national and local stakeholders is essential for effective implementation.
Municipal Level: Municipalities should promote compact and mixed urban structures through revised zoning laws and regional cooperation. Developing local strategies based on thorough analyses of existing and needed functions is key.
Neighbourhood Level: Neighbourhoods should be designed with integrated uses from the outset, balancing residential, commercial, and green spaces. Planning should account for the needs and impacts of productive uses on local residents.
Technical Level: Flexible building designs and multi-use spaces are necessary. Synergies between different users should be leveraged, and innovative economic models should support sustainable development.

Various challenges exist at each implementation level, such as regulatory barriers, infrastructure needs, and community acceptance. Overcoming these requires coordinated efforts, innovative planning, and the willingness to experiment with new concepts tailored to local contexts. Encouraging experimentation and continuous collaboration, supportive policies, and community engagement will drive the successful integration of production into urban areas, making cities more inclusive and sustainable.

You can read more about the activities, discussions and conclusions around the productive city and its potential for Luxembourg in the CIPU statement of 2023, linked below.

Contact

CIPU: cipu@zeyenbaumann.lu

References

CIPU publications 2023: https://cipu.lu/2024/03/15/publikationen-2023/

Blog post about the CIPU Workshop 1: https://cipu.lu/2023/08/30/cipu-workshop-exploring-multifunctionality-in-urban-spaces/

Blog post about the CIPU Workshop 2: https://cipu.lu/2023/12/13/cipu-workshop-no-2-exploring-multifunctionality-in-urban-spaces/

The city of Esch-sur-Alzette has made a promising start as a leader in urban resilience, becoming the first city in Luxembourg to develop a resilience plan. Its objective is to enhance the city’s capacity to address a diverse range of challenges, including natural disasters such as floods and heatwaves, as well as technological disruptions such as cyberattacks and power outages.

Aerial view of Esch-sur-Alzette (Source: Ville d’Esch: https://administration.esch.lu/2023/01/27/esch-pionniere-presente-son-plan-de-resilience/)

Aim

The plan which was presented in January 2023 defines resilience as the ability of a system to withstand external shocks and maintain its essential functions, also applicable to a city. Therefore, the core objective of the Esch-sur-Alzette resilience plan is to guarantee the safety and well-being of its citizens during and after a crisis. By minimising potential damage and enabling a swift recovery after disruptive events, the plan fosters a more secure future for the city’s residents. In this objective, it defines measures to be taken and defines standards for the everyday work of the city of Esch.

Genesis and Composition

A dedicated working group, composed of representatives from five technical departments – IT Department, Industrial Services, Environmental Services, Municipal Works and Urban Development – initiated the creation of the resilience plan. Representatives from this working group now form the Operational Resilience Committee (“Comité de résilience operationnelle”), which is responsible for its coordination. This collaborative approach ensured a comprehensive perspective and the inclusion of expertise from various sectors.

The plan itself draws inspiration from good practices observed and exchanged about with other European actors proactive in the field of resilience. Cities like Rotterdam in the Netherlands and Vejle in Denmark, renowned for their approaches to crisis management, served as valuable models for Esch-sur-Alzette.

Activities

The Esch-sur-Alzette resilience strategy adopts a layered approach akin to an onion, focusing on fortifying the city’s resilience from its core outwards. This entails securing the reliability of technical services on the inside, strengthening citizen-facing services and ultimately prioritising the well-being of both residents and businesses. The plan is built around 12 concrete actions strategically divided into three phases: before, during, and after a crisis.

Before the Crisis: Proactive Preparation. Each city department will assess its vulnerabilities and craft departmental crisis plans. These measures will involve updating safety protocols for critical infrastructure and implementing early warning systems to anticipate potential crises.

During the Crisis: Effective Response. Measures include pre-allocated budgets for crisis response activities, efficient damage assessment protocols, and documented departmental actions to ensure basic functionality and public safety. Additionally, backup plans as well as external and internal resource mobilisation strategies shall ensure a robust response even in unforeseen circumstances.

After the Crisis: Learning and Rebuilding. Regular training exercises and post-crisis debriefings will equip city departments to continuously improve their response capabilities. A structured approach to evaluating incidents will identify valuable lessons learned. Finally, Esch-sur-Alzette fosters a collaborative approach by sharing knowledge and best practices with partner cities, strengthening regional resilience. The plan is to proceed in seven steps. This includes the appointment of a “Chief Resilience Officer”, the regular discussion of resilience plans in the individual community services, the creation of Smart City use cases of technological solutions for increased resilience and the sharing of the plan with the member municipalities of the syndicate ProSud.

Resilience Matrix (Source: Ville d’Esch: https://administration.esch.lu/2023/01/27/esch-pionniere-presente-son-plan-de-resilience/)

Outlook

As a living document, the Esch-sur-Alzette resilience plan will continuously evolve to meet future challenges. The city plans to share its insights and experiences with neighbouring municipalities to foster synergies in resilience-building efforts. Furthermore, ongoing initiatives such as Smart City projects will leverage cutting-edge technologies to further enhance the city’s resilience. This pioneering initiative positions Esch-sur-Alzette as a model for urban resilience, proactively building a more secure and sustainable future for its citizens and potentially inspiring other Luxembourgish municipalities.

Contact

Ville d’Esch – Urban Development Division: https://administration.esch.lu/intro-et-contact/

References

Communication of the city of Esch (French): https://administration.esch.lu/2023/01/27/esch-pionniere-presente-son-plan-de-resilience/

Presentation of the resilience plan (French): https://esch.lu/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Presentation-Plan-de-resilience-Ville-dEsch.pdf

Newspaper article in tageblatt.lu (German): https://www.tageblatt.lu/headlines/velodukt-gratis-kurzzeitparkplaetze-und-ein-resilienzplan/

In the dynamic and pressured landscape of Luxembourg’s housing market, innovative solutions are essential to address the growing challenges of affordability and community integration. One promising approach is the housing cooperative model, which offers an alternative to traditional homeownership and renting. These cooperatives emphasise communal living, ecological responsibility, and affordability, providing a sustainable and inclusive solution to the housing crisis. Cedric Metz, the president of Adhoc, Luxembourg’s first non-profit housing cooperative, offers valuable insights into the value of housing cooperatives, their role in Luxembourg’s housing market, and the future prospects for such initiatives in the country.

What are housing cooperatives and what is their added value?

Housing cooperatives are organisations that create and manage housing collectively, based on principles of self-help and self-responsibility. Members of a cooperative actively participate in the planning and design of their living spaces and social interactions. The primary value of these living arrangements lies in fostering community and social cohesion. Additionally, the housing is often constructed with ecological considerations and provides affordable accommodation below market rates, contributing to social stability and promoting sustainable living. Housing cooperatives are one form of community housing, next to co-living, rental house syndicates, and communities of owners. People who wish to live together join forces and jointly operate a building in whose flats they are granted the right to live. If economic profits are excluded, the co-operative operates on a non-profit basis.

What is the state of the housing market in Luxembourg and what role do housing cooperatives play?

The housing market in Luxembourg is characterised by high prices and a shortage of affordable housing. Demand far outstrips supply, leading to increasing rents and property prices. Housing cooperatives offer a valuable alternative in this context. They could create affordable housing and promote new forms of communal living, and like Adhoc can promote and raise awareness about the relevance of members not only receiving housing but also participating in the planning and design of their living environments. This potentially fosters a high level of social integration and mutual support.

What challenges do housing cooperatives and alternative housing models face in Luxembourg?

Housing cooperatives and alternative housing models are facing several hindrances in Luxembourg. One major issue is financing. Since these projects are often non-profit, accessing traditional funding sources can be difficult. Additionally, there is a significant need for political support. The housing market is heavily dominated by economic interests, making it challenging to implement socially oriented housing projects. Directly linked to that, the finding and acquisition of land depicts a significant challenge for implementing alternative forms of housing initiated by housing cooperatives due to low land availability, zoning restrictions and limited financing models. It is important to raise awareness among the public and decision-makers about the benefits of these housing models, and to provide them with adequate tools and competences to guide and support such projects from finding a site over adequate financing to facilitating the integration in the existing neighbourhood.

How does Adhoc operate?

Adhoc is a non-profit housing cooperative dedicated to promoting new housing forms and developing cohousing projects. In general, the cooperative provides members with housing that is ecologically built and socially oriented. Members actively participate in the planning of their homes and the structuring of their communal living. A recent pilot project of community housing in Luxembourg’s business district Kirchberg in cooperation with the public developer Fonds Kirchberg was shut down in beginning of 2021. Fonds Kirchberg established of conditions for the site Réimerwee that Ad-Hoc, as a non-profit cooperative, could not meet, such as selling the apartments and selecting residents based on social status. Thus, Adhoc decided not to participate in the tender and will instead focus on promoting social and ecological housing projects. Additionally, the housing cooperative advises those interested in setting up cohousing projects and informs the public and policymakers about the benefits of communal living. Currently, Adhoc is working on a collaborative housing project in Weiler-la-Tour.

Planned housing project in Weiler-la-Tour (Source: Adhoc)

What support do you see from local authorities and the government?

Political support is essential for the successful implementation of housing projects like those of Adhoc. Municipalities and the government should provide financial resources and establish legal frameworks that facilitate the creation and operation of housing cooperatives. Recognising and promoting the benefits of communal living models is crucial as well as encouraging non-profit organisations as relevant actors on the housing market. This does not only include financial support but also the provision of land, the adaptation of building regulations and adapted public procurement such as concept awarding. Additionally, capacity building regarding technical and regulatory expertise within the municipalities could support housing cooperatives, e.g. through counselling centres for those interested in the foundation process.

What is the future outlook for housing cooperatives in Luxembourg?

The future outlook for housing cooperatives in Luxembourg is promising but also challenging. If the demand on the housing market and political will for communal living is not increasing, it will remain difficult to implement alternative forms of housing. Rising housing costs and a desire for sustainable and socially integrated living contribute to increasing interest in alternative housing models. Adhoc is pursuing an alternative way, demonstrating that communal living is not only possible but also desirable. However, it is important that political frameworks continue to improve to provide sustainable support for these housing models.

Contact

Adhoc: info@adhoc.lu

References

Interview by CIPU with Cedric Metz, 24^th May 2024

Adhoc (English, French, German): https://www.adhoc.lu/

Introducing Kuebebierg, a new urban development in Luxembourg’s Kirchberg area managed by the Fonds Kirchberg, focused on creating a sustainable and inclusive community. With an emphasis on environmental responsibility, social diversity, and economic viability, Kuebebierg aims to set a benchmark for future urban projects. From promoting alternative transportation to supporting local agriculture, Kuebebierg offers a balanced approach to urban living that prioritizes harmony with nature.

Aim

The aim of the Kuebebierg project is to create a vibrant, environmentally conscious neighbourhood that promotes sustainable living, social inclusivity, and economic vitality. Through careful planning and implementation, the project seeks to establish Kuebebierg as a model for future urban developments, both locally and internationally.

Aerial view of the planned neighbourhood (Source: Güller Güller Architecture Urbanism)

The Kirchberg quarter located on the north-eastern plateau of Luxembourg city is the vibrant business district, hosting not only banking and financial organisations but also EU institutions. The Fonds Kirchberg, established in 1961, operates under the supervision of the Minister of Mobility and Public Works and is responsible for urbanisation and development of the Kirchberg Plateau. It manages its operations and investments independently, relying on proceeds from real estate activities. Its main tasks include construction, urban development, and road infrastructure, with a current focus on building affordable housing. The Fund utilizes leasehold and other rights for land development, emphasising sustainability and community involvement in its planning processes.

The Fonds Kirchberg launched a competitive consultation process to develop an urban design charter establishing objectives for the landscape of the Kuebebierg area, a major land reserve belonging to the public organisation. The 33-ha area is located in a so-called deferred development zone (zone d’aménagement différée, or ZAD). The winning team of the consultation process presented its project in March 2022. The consortium is led by the Güller Güller Architecture Urbanism office in Rotterdam and Zurich, cooperating with Zeyen+Baumann, Atelier Alfred Peter, Etienne Ballan, Cabane Partner, RR&A, ZEFCO, Ecolor, Ville en Œuvre and Belvédère.

Activities

With its circular design and ecological focus, Kuebebierg aims to create a vibrant, liveable community that integrates seamlessly with its surroundings. Activities within the neighbourhood are guided by a holistic vision that embraces the area’s natural and urban characteristics, prioritising principles of sustainability and community well-being.

Promoting Active Mobility: Kuebebierg prioritises diverse mobility options to reduce reliance on individual cars. Direct and secure routes for pedestrians and cyclists are integrated, along with the commissioning of a new tram line to enhance public transport accessibility.
Limiting Car Circulation: With only one vehicle access point and a ratio of 0.5 cars per dwelling, Kuebebierg encourages a shift away from car-centric urban planning. Shared spaces accommodate various modes of transportation, fostering a safer and more vibrant urban environment.
Creating Vibrant Public Spaces: The heart of Kuebebierg features a bustling square, reminiscent of traditional city centres, offering a diverse mix of shops, restaurants, and recreational amenities. These vibrant public spaces serve as focal points for social interaction and community engagement. A linear park and the tram line will connect public spaces, crossed by the spaces “Porte Frieden” and the “Place du Kuebebierg”.
Maximising Renewable Energy Production: Kuebebierg embraces energy efficiency by prioritising renewable energy sources. From efficient building design to on-site energy production and storage, the district aims to minimise its carbon footprint while ensuring optimal living conditions for residents.
Fostering Social Diversity: With a balanced mix of housing typologies and amenities, Kuebebierg promotes social inclusivity and diversity. Affordable housing options, coupled with accessible public services and recreational facilities, create an environment where people from all walks of life can thrive.
Living circularity: the planned programme for the site, the architecture and the infrastructures are all aiming for a high standard regarding carbon footprint, local consumption and low energy demands, etc. In this context, the concept includes for example an urban farm and gardening.
Farming in the City: The city farm project aims to maintain agricultural activity on one of the last remaining sites on the Kirchberg Plateau worked by farmers. It promotes biodiversity through more extensive green space management and offers multifunctional farming activities, including grazing, market gardening, and agro-tourism, contributing to economic, environmental, and socio-cultural services within the community.

Place du Kuebebierg (Source: Güller Güller Architecture Urbanism)

Status of Implementation

The implementation of the project started in 2022. At the western tip of the district, where the city farm and orchards are also planned, initial work began at the end of 2023 (planting trees and exploratory drilling for geothermal energy). This part of the district will also be included in the exhibition LUGA – Luxembourg Urban Garden taking place in 2025.

Outlook

The winning project for Kuebebierg embodies a vision of urban living in harmony with nature. By integrating topography and green spaces, creating pedestrian-friendly environments, and prioritising sustainability, Kuebebierg sets a new standard for future urban developments.

As construction progresses, Kuebebierg aims to become a living testament to the possibilities of sustainable urban planning. The aim is to achieve a district development plan for 2025, build infrastructure in 2027 and initiate the construction of housing in 2029. With its innovative approach and commitment to environmental and social well-being, Kuebebierg represents not just a neighbourhood but a vision of a more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient urban future.

Contact

Fonds Kirchberg: info@fondskirchberg.lu

References

Fonds Kirchberg (French): https://fondskirchberg.public.lu/fr/concepts-urbains/quartiers-futur/kuebebierg.html

Communication of the Luxembourgish government (French): https://gouvernement.lu/fr/actualites/toutes_actualites/communiques/2022/03-mars/02-urbanisation-terrains-kuebebierg.html

Paperjam article (French): https://paperjam.lu/article/kuebebierg-quartier-tourne-ver Record of the project presentation (French): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G56wT-yC8mw&t=38s