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

The research article "Living smaller: acceptance, effects and structural factors in the EU" explores the concept of "living smaller" as a means to mitigate housing-related environmental impacts across the European Union. With household energy consumption accounting for 27% of the EU's final energy usage, and space heating comprising 60% of this consumption, addressing housing efficiency is critical. Notably, average living space per person in Europe increased by 16% from 2000 to 2018, highlighting the urgency for sustainable housing solutions.

The study utilized interactive workshops known as "thinking labs" in five EU countries: Germany, Hungary, Latvia, Spain, and Sweden. These workshops involved citizens and stakeholders, gathering diverse insights on housing preferences and challenges. Through citizen thinking labs (CTLs) and stakeholder thinking labs (STLs), the research assessed acceptance levels and motivations for downsizing living spaces.

The research revealed low initial acceptance rates for reducing living space, with only 29% approval for smaller homes and 21% for shared housing. Barriers include complex housing markets, privacy concerns, and social norms favoring home ownership. Cultural factors, especially historical associations with forced sharing in Hungary, further complicate acceptance.

The motivations for downsizing include value-based concerns about environmental impact, practical changes in family dynamics, and economic factors like lower housing costs. Structural motivations also play a role, as housing market constraints and urban density influence living arrangements.

Participants reported both negative and positive outcomes from reduced living space. Challenges included socializing difficulties, privacy concerns, and limited storage. Conversely, positive effects included reduced maintenance time, better access to urban amenities, and enhanced community connections.

The study suggests several policy recommendations to facilitate smaller living arrangements. Urban planning must support integrated designs for smaller spaces, while regulatory frameworks should encourage downsizing and shared living. Community-building initiatives and conflict resolution mechanisms are crucial for successful implementations.

For smaller living initiatives to succeed, fair implementation and alignment with broader sustainability goals are essential. Cultural shifts in perceptions of home ownership and living space must occur, alongside supportive infrastructure and community resources.

The article concludes that while significant challenges exist in promoting smaller living spaces, effective policy support and societal shifts can make this a viable solution for reducing housing-related environmental impacts, all while maintaining quality of life. The research underscores the need for a societal dialogue on housing norms and an understanding of the complexities involved in transitioning to smaller, more sustainable living.