Das Quartier der Zukunft: So leben wir in 2035

Das Quartier der Zukunft: So leben wir in 2035 is a resource published by IG Lebenszyklus Bau, featuring contributions from authors including Christoph Müller-Thiede, Dominik Philipp, and several others. This guide addresses the challenges and opportunities in spatial and infrastructure development, focusing on sustainable housing and urban planning in the context of climate change.

The guide emphasizes the significance of the climate crisis, stating that human activities are primarily responsible for global warming. According to the latest IPCC report, the extent of climate-related changes, such as storms, floods, and rising sea levels, is unprecedented compared to previous millennia. The European Commission has set the target of achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, with an urgent push for reductions by 2040 and 55% by 2030. However, the current efforts in Austria, for example, have been inadequate, as emissions have increased rather than decreased.

The document highlights the crucial role of spatial and infrastructure development in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. It notes that building design and construction significantly impact transportation emissions, indicating that a systemic approach is necessary to optimize these elements. It also mentions how human behavior influences the effectiveness of measures taken to combat climate change, underscoring the need for comprehensive strategies.

The guide outlines three action areas relevant to spatial and infrastructure development: neighborhood, building, and organization. In the neighborhood context, the focus is on creating multifunctional spaces that integrate living, working, and recreational areas. This approach aims to reduce the need for individual car travel and promote sustainable mobility options such as walking and cycling.

For building practices, the guide stresses the need for flexibility and efficiency. A significant percentage of existing buildings in Austria are outdated and in need of renovation. The document states that 74% of buildings were constructed before 1980, leading to high energy consumption and CO2 emissions during their operational lifespan. It advocates for the revitalization of existing structures and the use of eco-friendly materials in renovations and new constructions.

The guide discusses how the COVID-19 pandemic has altered work environments, leading to an increased acceptance of remote work. This shift is expected to influence future demands for office space and residential preferences. The document suggests that businesses should adopt sustainable mobility concepts and promote decentralized working models to reduce commuting emissions.

Finally, it emphasizes the importance of individual lifestyle changes to combat climate change. The guide advocates for a shift in values towards sustainability, encouraging people to adopt environmentally friendly practices in mobility, consumption, and nutrition. It highlights the need for targeted information campaigns and incentives to support sustainable living.

In summary, this resource provides a comprehensive overview of the future of living in 2035, focusing on sustainable housing and the necessary systemic changes in spatial and infrastructure development. It serves as a guideline for policymakers, public administration, and stakeholders in urban planning and environmental protection.