Affordable Sustainable Housing in the EU

The document titled "Affordable Sustainable Housing in the EU" is published by the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC), featuring contributions from authors Agnieszka Kulesa, Agnieszka Maj, Aleksandra Owczarek, Anna Wiktorow-Bojska, and Karolina Zubel. The study addresses a pressing issue in Europe: the increasing difficulty for many citizens to find affordable housing amid rising costs and a growing need for sustainability in the housing sector. The EESC emphasizes the importance of tackling housing affordability as a fundamental social right, particularly in light of the challenges exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and energy crises.

The study highlights that over 10% of households in urban areas spend more than 40% of their disposable income on housing, making affordability a critical issue. It identifies several factors influencing both affordability and sustainability, categorized into themes such as habitability, community connectivity, economic accessibility, resource efficiency, and resilience to climate change. The report underscores that sustainable housing must address social, economic, and environmental dimensions, promoting a holistic approach to housing policy.

Digitalisation is presented as a pathway to enhance affordable and sustainable housing. The study documents varying levels of digital adoption across EU member states, noting that 18 countries have established digitalisation policies for construction. Specific case studies, including initiatives in Denmark, France, and the Netherlands, illustrate how digital technologies can optimize planning and construction processes, improve resource efficiency, and support community engagement.

The report also explores the significant role of social economy entities in providing affordable housing. It highlights how local governments have increasingly engaged social actors to address housing shortages and enhance social cohesion. In Austria, for example, limited-profit housing associations play a pivotal role, accounting for 24% of the national housing stock. The document emphasizes that a collaborative approach involving public, private, and social economy sectors can lead to innovative housing solutions that cater to diverse community needs.

The study concludes with recommendations for EU policymakers, advocating for a comprehensive "New European Deal for Affordable Sustainable Social Housing." This initiative calls for improved coordination among member states and the integration of digital tools in housing policies. It also emphasizes the need for long-term financing options and the establishment of a European Housing Directive to ensure cohesive housing policies across the EU.

In summary, the EESC's study on affordable sustainable housing provides valuable insights into the current housing crisis in Europe, emphasizing the interconnectedness of affordability, sustainability, and social equity. By leveraging digitalization and the social economy, the report offers a framework for developing effective housing policies that can address the diverse needs of European citizens while contributing to environmental sustainability.