This Italian region now has Europe’s highest Tibetan bridge
It’s not for the faint-hearted
Rainwater barrels can offer people access to free non-drinkable water, for watering lawns and plants, Source: Waldemar Brandt / Unsplash
People can receive around 100 euros for a 200-litre container that catches rainwater
The Belgian city Leuven has announced a decision to subsidise households to plant a tree in their backyard or install a rainwater barrel. The idea of the policy is to stimulate grassroots sustainable development as single-family homes are considered one of the most unsustainable living arrangements.
Despite the fact that they are unreasonably resourced intensive, they also have enormous biodiversity potential, as single-family homes with green spaces. This is why Leuven authorities aim to stimulate more sustainable practices. A single tree can help with soil unsealing, groundwater retention and provide a habitat for hundreds of insects and birds.
The idea behind Leuven’s subsidy policy is to stimulate action on private property by private citizens. David Dessers, the city’s Alderman for Climate, was quoted by VRT explaining that Leuven pays for every square metre of concrete that is removed in favour of green spaces.
The same goes for climate adaptation measures in people’s backyards and front yards. With the new rules, residents can receive up to 100 euros for installing a rainwater barrel with a minimum volume of 200 litres. The barrel will collect water over time which can then be used to water green spaces and plants.
However, when it comes to water, people go a step further. According to an official statement, people can opt to install a rainwater tank with a minimum volume of 5,000 litres and still expect subsidies in line with that investment.
Additionally, this policy also applies to planting trees or redesigning a roof so that it temporarily retains water. The changes to the subsidy policy of Leuven will kick in at the start of 2023.
What are the reasons for that and are there any possible solutions for that problem?
Possibly making it the only legislature in the world with a religious temple on-site
It’s not for the faint-hearted
Presenting the next chapter in the Dutch capital’s ‘Stay Away’ campaign aimed at rowdy tourists
The City says this has become a necessity due to the increasing number of incidents involving these vehicles
That way you can notify a canal lock keeper to open the gates so the animals can swim through
The organizers had been considering different Parisian spots, but always with the idea of the flame being visible to the people
Electricity production in that Eastern European country will not release direct CO2 emissions anymore
Possibly making it the only legislature in the world with a religious temple on-site
This initiative is not just about making books more accessible – it has larger ambitions in its sights
We owe the unusual cultural icon to this country in Europe
The country’s capital has been a pioneer in crafting policy and initiatives to improve coexistence between people and pets
Urban dwellers across the EU are having a say in making their surroundings friendlier to people and the environment.
Forests in the EU can help green the European construction industry and bolster a continent-wide push for architectural improvements.
Apply by 10 November and do your part for the transformation of European public spaces
Catch up with some recommendations for the 2024 European Capital of Culture programme from the mayor of Tartu
An interview with the ICLEI regional director for Europe аfter the close of COP28
An interview with a member of the No Hate Speech Network team