Amsterdam bans creation of new hotels
Another piece in the overall strategy to reduce tourist flows to the city
Green and sustainable projects in the Austrian capital would generate 18.1 billion euros of gross regional product in the coming years
Today, authorities in Vienna presented the city’s Green Economy Report showcasing both the economic and carbon savings gains that the city stands to make with its current transitional agenda. The report takes into account projects that aim to expand public transport, green energy and the circular economy, as well as the shift towards sustainability in the private sector.
According to a statement by the city, during development, these projects should bring in around 18.1 billion euros, as well as 160,000 jobs in various sectors like manufacturing, construction and more. This, they estimate, would cause an annual reduction of CO2 emissions of 1.5 million tons.
Mayor Michael Ludwig explained that the report provides a snapshot into what a transitioning local economy should look like. He based the statement on the fact that Vienna has been a pioneer of green and sustainable development for decades, with some projects starting as far back as the 1980s.
Currently, the Austrian capital has set its sights on 2040 as the year when they break even on CO2 emissions. Mayor Ludwig pointed out that at the moment, green development in the city is at the cusp of a peak. Consequently, sustainable projects are not considered a novelty anymore.
As he put it - ‘Green Economy’ is one of the most important buzzwords of our time, explaining how various fields have emerged as complementary layers in the local economy, from modern infrastructure to climate model city. He added: “Climate protection has become an important part of Viennese entrepreneurial DNA.”
According to the report, the projects that were included, ongoing and already planned, would contribute 18.1 billion euros to Vienna’s gross regional product. Furthermore, they would create 160,000 jobs during planning and construction. At the same time, after development is complete and they are fully operational, they would generate 7.6 billion annually and sustain 68,000 jobs.
The bulk of climate development projects in Vienna focus on climate-friendly infrastructure, emissions-reducing technology and renewable energy systems, with most of them projecting some CO2 savings. Though each individual project may seem like a small incremental step in the right direction, the Green Economy Report claims that they would add up to 1.5 million tons of CO2 when completed. To put this in perspective, the city emitted around 9 million tons of carbon dioxide last year.
At the same time, private companies are also joining in the shift towards sustainability, mainly in terms of commercial vehicles moving from fossil fuels to electric. According to the report, if all commercial vehicles go electric, this would save the city 625,000 tons of CO2 annually.
Furthermore, according to a survey in the Viennese Chamber of Commerce (WK Wien), a quarter of companies are already using electric vehicles. Additionally, 75% of those surveyed stated that they plan to convert their vehicle fleet completely to electric in the coming years.
However, this option will not yet be available for the upcoming European Parliament elections in June
Two years after also being the first European country to decriminalize prostitution
Silesian is spoken by about half a million people in the south of the country
However, this option will not yet be available for the upcoming European Parliament elections in June
The tool helps identify undeclared swimming pools and garden sheds
It will serve as a virtual companion to the municipal network of libraries in the country
The tests are also experimenting with a charging point that is easier to maintain
Reportedly, the aim of the local government is to curb violence and disorder among the youth
The city thinks that it’s time to update pet-related street cleanliness rules for the 21st century
The ritual is more than 1000 years old and was originally performed by the Doges
Two years after also being the first European country to decriminalize prostitution
For English speakers that would be Saint Domnius, the patron saint of the Dalmatian capital
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