Living smaller: acceptance, effects and structural factors in the EU | Buildings & Cities

The article "Living smaller: acceptance, effects and structural factors in the EU," published in the journal Buildings & Cities on June 27, 2024, explores the concept of "living smaller" as a potential strategy to mitigate housing-related environmental impacts within the European Union. The authors, including Matthias Lehner, Jessika Luth Richter, Halliki Kreinin, Pia Mamut, Edina Vadovics, Josefine Henman, Oksana Mont, and Doris Fuchs, highlight that household energy consumption accounts for 27% of the EU's final energy consumption, with space heating representing 60% of this usage. Given that the average living space per person in Europe has increased by 16% from 2000 to 2018, reducing housing size has become crucial for sustainability.

The study utilizes data collected from "thinking labs," which are interactive workshops held in Germany, Hungary, Latvia, Spain, and Sweden between 2022 and 2024. These workshops involved citizens and stakeholders, gathering insights from a range of participants, including academics, business representatives, and policymakers.

The research unveiled low initial acceptance rates for reducing living space, with only 29% approval for downsizing and 21% for shared housing. Key barriers identified include complex housing markets, fears of losing privacy, and entrenched social norms favoring home ownership. Historical factors also play a role, particularly in Hungary, where negative associations linger from past forced sharing.

Motivations for smaller living emerged from various categories: - Value-based: Concerns about environmental impact and ethical considerations regarding excess space. - Practical: Changes in family dynamics and a desire for urban living. - Economic: Lower housing costs and reduced utility expenses. - Structural: Housing market constraints and urban density requirements.

The effects of downsizing included both negative and positive outcomes. Negative impacts involved reduced socializing opportunities, privacy concerns, and storage limitations. Conversely, positive effects included less time spent on maintenance, improved access to urban amenities, and enhanced community connections.

The article emphasizes the need for integrated urban planning to support smaller living spaces, advocating for high-quality shared amenities and multifunctional living spaces. It suggests revising building codes to encourage downsizing and implementing property taxation to discourage excessive space. Community-building initiatives and conflict resolution mechanisms for shared living arrangements are also recommended.

The success of smaller living initiatives relies on equitable implementation and alignment with broader urban sustainability goals. A cultural shift in perceptions of home ownership and living space is essential, alongside the development of infrastructure and community resources to support these transformations.

In conclusion, while challenges exist in promoting smaller living spaces, the research indicates that with appropriate policy support and societal shifts, this approach could significantly reduce housing-related environmental impacts while maintaining or enhancing quality of life across the European Union.