CHANGING CITIES: Copenhagen – Redefining Urban Living Through Green Architecture and Social Innovation.

  Focus - Allegati
  13 gennaio 2025
  32 minuti, 58 secondi

Autori:

Margherita Gobbo - Senior Researcher Mondo Internazionale
Marco Rizzi - Senior Researcher Mondo Internazionale
Marta Thorbjornsen - Senior Researcher Mondo Internazionale

Abstract:

Copenhagen, with its ambition to achieve carbon neutrality by 2025, has become a global icon of Sustainable Smart Cities. This article analyzes how the city integrates technological innovation with environmental awareness across Energy, Mobility and Urban Planning, showcasing examples like the Nordhavn district and Amager Bakke facility. It also explores the socio-cultural impacts of this transformation, emphasizing behavioral shifts and the critical role of Civic Engagement in fostering green lifestyles. As a scalable model, Copenhagen provides valuable insights for cities navigating sustainable development, highlighting the importance of inclusivity and innovation to address global challenges.

1. Introduction

In 1987, the Brundtland Report Our Common Future introduced the term sustainable development defining it as “development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs” (EUR-Lex). By 2025, this concept has become integral to daily discourse and a guiding principle in policymaking worldwide, reinforced by the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) outlined in Agenda 2030. Governments across the globe have embraced these goals, with all 193 United Nations Member States ratifying the Agenda.

In the last decade, despite challenges, significant progress has been made in some areas, with certain nations standing out for their proactive approach to embedding sustainability into their political, economic, social, and ethical frameworks. Denmark, committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2025, is a notable example, with its capital, Copenhagen, recognized as a global leader between smart cities. In Copenhagen, sustainability is far from being an empty world cloaked in political correctness. It is a guiding principle of action deeply embedded in the government’s policy making and citizens’ lifestyle. Indeed, the city’s mission to reducing greenhouse gas emissions informs decisions across every sector, from energy generation, to housing, mobility and architecture. Urban transformations mirror broader cultural and political shifts and since its commitment to carbon neutrality, Copenhagen has been shaped by a diverse range of modern, energy-efficient, and visionary buildings. These developments not only enhance Copenhagen’s skyline, but also foster new forms of social interaction, solidifying a green lifestyle among its residents.

In light of the above, this paper adopts a holistic approach to explore how Copenhagen, by integrating technological innovation with environmental awareness, has emerged as one of the most sustainable cities in the world. It aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of government policies across energy, infrastructure, and urban planning, with a strong emphasis on citizen engagement and responses throughout this transformation.

To achieve this, the article first offers a historical contextualization of Copenhagen’s trajectory before and after its commitment to sustainability. Next, it delves into the city’s transformative green strategies, focusing on solutions in mobility, energy production, and infrastructure development. Concrete examples, such as case studies of engineering marvels and energy-optimized buildings like the renowned Copenhill, will be highlighted. Finally, the socio-cultural implications of Copenhagen’s sustainability shift will be examined to underscore the critical role of social dynamics in sustainable development. The paper concludes by summarizing key findings, addressing contemporary challenges, and envisioning future scenarios for the city.

2. Historical Contextualization

I. Copenhagen before the sustainability shift

In the 1960s, Copenhagen was far from the eco-friendly city it is celebrated as today. Like many Western cities, it followed the post-war trend of prioritizing automobile infrastructure. Roads and highways expanded rapidly, with urban planning designed to accommodate cars rather than people. Public spaces were diminished, and pedestrian areas were sidelined to make room for parking lots and sprawling intersections (Rost Architects, 2024). This car-centric approach was seen as progress at the time but soon revealed its flaws. By the late 1960s, traffic congestion and air pollution had reached alarming levels, disrupting daily life and harming the city’s environment.

Economic challenges during this period compounded the city’s struggles. Copenhagen faced a decline in industrial activity as factories began to close or move to suburban areas, leaving the urban core economically vulnerable (Academia, 2024). This exodus led to urban sprawl, with wealthier residents relocating to peripheral neighborhoods. As a result, the inner city became neglected, marked by deteriorating infrastructure and reduced investment. The shift toward suburbanization increased dependency on cars, further exacerbating pollution and undermining Copenhagen’s traditionally compact urban design (Rost Architects, 2024).

The environmental consequences were significant. The rapid expansion into green spaces at the city’s edges destroyed natural habitats and created fragmented communities. Urban sprawl also strained the city’s resources, as public transit systems were not adequately developed to match the growing demand for connectivity. Instead, car use soared, contributing to rising carbon emissions and declining air quality. By the late 1960s, Copenhagen faced a growing sense of dissatisfaction among its citizens, who were increasingly aware of the costs of this unsustainable urban model (Le Monde, 2024).

Amid this backdrop, calls for change began to emerge. Architects, urban planners, and community activists advocated for a rethinking of the city’s priorities. They argued for reclaiming public spaces, enhancing public transit, and reducing reliance on cars. This period of unrest and reflection became the foundation for Copenhagen’s transformation into a global leader in sustainability. The realization that car dependency and unchecked urban sprawl were unsustainable would later drive the city’s groundbreaking shift toward environmentally conscious urban design and citizen-centric policies (Rost Architects, 2024).

II. Copenhagen’s transformation

Copenhagen’s transformation into a global sustainability icon was not a sudden pivot but a calculated response to mounting pressures, both internal and external. By committing to carbon neutrality by 2025, the city redefined its trajectory, positioning itself as a pioneer in urban climate action. This shift was driven by a blend of visionary policies, civic activism, international frameworks, and pragmatic economic considerations.

Copenhagen’s decision to adopt the CPH 2025 Climate Plan in 2009 was a turning point, marking a decisive shift from conventional urban planning to a climate-focused approach. The plan was not mere symbolism; it laid out quantifiable targets, including a 70% reduction in CO₂ emissions and the transition to 100% renewable energy in key sectors. This level of specificity distinguished Copenhagen from other cities, where climate commitments often lack actionable roadmaps (City of Copenhagen, 2009). The city’s leadership framed sustainability not just as an environmental goal but as a vehicle for improving urban livability. For Copenhagen, climate neutrality wasn’t a burden; it was an opportunity to align economic growth with environmental stewardship. By embedding sustainability into the DNA of urban planning, the city turned environmental ambition into a competitive advantage (The Urbanist, 2024; Bloomberg New Economy, 2023).

Policy, however, did not evolve in a vacuum. Copenhagen’s residents played a crucial role in pressuring political leaders to adopt greener initiatives. By the 1990s, dissatisfaction with traffic congestion, pollution, and the erosion of public spaces was palpable. Grassroots organizations like Miljøbevægelsen (Environmental Movement) organized campaigns that pushed for greener urban policies, from banning cars in central zones to expanding cycling infrastructure. The city’s residents weren’t just passive recipients of change; they were active participants shaping it (Gehl, 2015). Strøget, Europe’s longest pedestrian-only street, exemplifies this dynamic. When first proposed, the plan faced backlash from businesses and motorists, but its eventual success demonstrated how reclaiming public space could benefit both the economy and the community. By transforming car-dominated zones into vibrant pedestrian areas, Copenhagen set the stage for a larger cultural shift towards prioritizing people over vehicles (Rost Architects, 2024).

The global stage also played a significant role in Copenhagen’s evolution. The 1997 Kyoto Protocol and the 2009 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP15) placed cities at the forefront of climate action. Hosting COP15 in Copenhagen underscored the city’s emerging role as a leader in sustainability, while exposing the urgent need for actionable solutions to combat climate change. These global frameworks gave Copenhagen not only the impetus to act but also a benchmark against which to measure its progress (UNEP, 2009). Additionally, peer cities like Stockholm and Amsterdam were making strides in sustainability, creating a competitive dynamic. Copenhagen’s leaders recognized that staying ahead required bold, innovative solutions, not incremental adjustments. By positioning itself as a leader in green urban design, the city attracted global attention, investment, and talent, further cementing its role as a sustainability hub (ICLEI, 2022).

Copenhagen’s green agenda was not just a moral stance but also a pragmatic economic strategy. The shift to renewable energy and sustainable infrastructure promised long-term cost savings and economic resilience (Pestova, 2021). For example, the Amager Bakke waste-to-energy plant, with its innovative design and multifunctional use as a ski slope, is both a technical solution and a cultural landmark, reducing landfill dependency while generating revenue (Amager Resource Center, 2017). Moreover, by integrating sustainability into its urban brand, Copenhagen attracted businesses and industries aligned with environmental values. This not only boosted the city’s economy but also reinforced its reputation as a forward-thinking, livable metropolis. Sustainability became a core pillar of Copenhagen’s appeal, transforming it into a magnet for green investment and environmentally conscious tourism (ICLEI, 2022; Bloomberg New Economy, 2023).

What sets Copenhagen apart is its ability to weave these motivations together into a cohesive strategy. The city’s leadership didn’t treat sustainability as a standalone goal but as an interconnected challenge requiring collaboration across sectors. Bold policies were matched by grassroots activism, and global influences were aligned with local needs. The result was not just a city adapting to change, but a city leading it (Freethink, 2022). By committing to carbon neutrality, Copenhagen turned an abstract concept into a tangible roadmap. It became a city where citizens, businesses, and policymakers worked together to build a future that balances economic vitality with environmental integrity (Pestova, 2021). This convergence of forces is what has made Copenhagen a global model for urban transformation.

3. Smart City Copenhagen: Transformative Strategies in Urban Planning

As Copenhagen approaches the conclusion of its 2025 Climate Plan, the city’s ambitious climate goals and initiatives have yielded measurable, positive results. In 2005, Copenhagen committed to reducing its CO2 emissions by 80% over the following 20 years—an objective it successfully reached by 2022 (Planète Energies). This mission to cut greenhouse gas emissions encompassed multiple sectors, including housing, energy generation, transport, and waste management, addressing a key source of emission sources such as traffic, electricity consumption, and heating (City of Copenhagen). Building on the context provided about Copenhagen’s shift toward sustainability, the following pages outline the transformative strategies and achievements that have shaped its journey toward becoming a sustainable smart city. This concept, as defined in the literature, represents a modern vision of urban planning that merges technological innovation with environmental sustainability to foster a more equitable and resilient future (Petrea et al., 2023, p. 225). As this section will discuss, Copenhagen’s smart city’s practices reflected a comprehensive approach, encompassing transportation, infrastructure, energy, waste management, and urban design.

I. Green mobility

At the core of Copenhagen’s smart city initiatives is its commitment to green mobility. The city’s efficient and people-centric transportation ecosystem includes diverse elements and initiatives outlined in the Copenhagen City Council’s 2013 Action Plan for Green Mobility (Petrea et al., 2023).

First, Copenhagen actively promotes cycling as a sustainable mode of transport. Cycling has long been a central focus of urban planning, not only to reduce environmental impact but also to improve residents’ quality of life. According to the EU Urban Mobility Observatory, the Global Bicycle Cities Index (2022) ranks Copenhagen as the world’s fourth most bicycle-friendly city. With over 546 kilometers of dedicated bike lanes, the city boasts one of the most extensive cycling infrastructures globally (BCI Hub, 2017). These lanes, separated from both car traffic and pedestrian paths, ensure safety and convenience, making cycling the preferred mode of transport for many Copenhageners (Copenhagen City of Cyclists, 2024). Statistics underline this cultural embrace of cycling: 41% of commuters travel by bike, 27% use public transit, and only 26% rely on private cars (Deloitte, 2019). In 2025, cycling accounts for 50% of trips to work or school, with residents collectively commuting 1.1 million kilometers daily (Green City Times, 2015; Deloitte Insights, 2019). Notably, since 2016, the number of bicycles in the city has exceeded the number of cars, with 265,700 bikes compared to 252,600 cars (The Guardian, 2016). Nearly nine in ten Danes over the age of six own a bike, and Copenhagen’s cycling policies have reduced traffic congestion while improving air quality, public health, and overall quality of life (Copenhagen City of Cyclists, as cited in Petrea et al., 2023).

Beyond cycling, Copenhagen’s vision for carbon neutrality extends to promoting electric vehicles (EVs) and shared mobility services, including e-scooters, car-sharing, and bike-sharing schemes (Petrea et al, 2023). The city provides incentives like dedicated lanes and reduced parking fees for EVs, while many areas are designed for pedestrian use, restricting car access and parking in the city center. Walking is also popular, with 6% of citizens choosing it for daily journeys (Deloitte Mobility Index, 2019).

Copenhagen’s transformative strategy for smart mobility has also encompassed investment in public transportation systems, which enable seamless connectivity in all the areas of the city. The city’s public transportation is extremely efficient and offers buses, trains and metro lines (Petrea et al, 2023).The Copenhagen Metro operates with sustainable, fully autonomous trains, serving over 1 million passengers weekly. The S-train network, spanning more than 80 stations across Greater Copenhagen, accommodates over 100 million passengers annually (EU Urban Mobility Observatory, 2022). Complementing these transit systems, the upcoming Greater Copenhagen Light Rail, an electric tram network with 29 stations over 28 kilometers, is set to launch in 2025 (EU UMA, 2022). Transportation is made pleasant and citizens’ centric also by the integrated ticket option, which is made possible due to the fact that the transport’s network is operated by a single company (Deloitte Insights 2019, as cited in Petrea et al, 2023, p. 229). Additionally, a smooth travelling experience is boosted by digital mobile apps, which through a real time information system on disruption and traffic, allow commuters to remain always updated (Petrea et al, 2023, p. 229).

Copenhagen’s smart mobility configures itself as people-centered not only in daily life, but also in the policy making context. Indeed, through citizens’ engagement mechanisms, such as forums and participatory platforms, residents are invited to submit their feedback and ideas to improve the design and functioning of the transportation’s infrastructure (Petrea et al, 2023). This collaborative approach fosters a sense of community and encourages citizens to integrate sustainable practices into their routines, further solidifying Copenhagen’s reputation as a global leader in green mobility

II. Green energy

Incorporating wind turbines, solar panels into its energy grid while transitioning from coal to biomass in energy production, are some of the steps taken by Copenhagen in line with Denmark’s commitment towards renewable energy. The country, which is a global leader in the use of renewable energy sources, achieved a total renewable energy capacity of 11.7 gigawatts in 2022, with wind power accounting for the majority of this capacity (Statista, 2025).

The country relies on a diverse mix of renewable energy sources, including wind, bioenergy, solar, and geothermal energy (Ministry of Foreign Affairs, 2024). Wind energy, in particular, plays a dominant role, contributing to over 57% of Denmark's electricity generation in 2023 (Statista, 2025). Bioenergy ranks as the second most utilized source, providing 21% of electricity generation (Statista, 2025). Derived from organic materials such as wood pellets, wood chips, straw, and waste, bioenergy has been instrumental in Denmark's efforts to reduce CO2 emissions (Green Thinking, 2024). By transitioning power plants from fossil fuels to biomass, the country has significantly curtailed its carbon footprint. This process utilizes a variety of materials—including straw, discarded wood, and even human and animal waste—to produce heat, electricity, and biofuels, aligning with Denmark’s ambitious sustainability goals (Hat, 2022).

Denmark's achievements in wind energy are particularly remarkable. Among industrialized nations in the OECD, Denmark generates nearly double the wind energy per capita compared to its peers (Denmark Ministry of Foreign Affairs). A standout example is "Krieger’s Flak" Scandinavia’s largest wind farm, inaugurated in 2021. With the capacity to supply electricity to 600,000 Danish households, this facility underscores Denmark's leadership in renewable energy innovation (Denmark Ministry of Foreign Affairs). Solar energy also complements Denmark’s renewable energy portfolio. In 2020, solar power accounted for half of the country’s electricity production. Solar panels are primarily employed to generate heat, while solar cells contribute to electricity generation (Denmark Ministry of Foreign Affairs). Together, these technologies demonstrate Denmark’s comprehensive approach to diversifying its renewable energy sources and advancing sustainability.

Focusing on Copenhagen, the city derives most of its electricity from a combination of onshore and offshore wind energy, followed by biomass (including waste-to-energy systems) and solar power (both photovoltaic and thermal) (Green City Times). One of the city's most notable achievements in renewable energy deployment lies in its district heating system, a key feature of the housing sector. This system, the largest integrated district heating network in the world, serves 98% of Copenhagen’s buildings and is a source of pride for the city (Green City Times).

The success of this network can be traced back to a pioneering initiative in 1979 to install underground pipelines aimed at reducing oil imports (Planète Energies). These pipelines efficiently transport heat, in the form of hot water, from residual and electricity generation facilities to homes, significantly minimizing heat loss to the environment. Complementing this is a sustainable cooling system, primarily used by data centers, which draws cold water from the city’s port (Planète Energies). Copenhagen’s district heating system is predominantly powered by biomass and other renewable energy sources, which are combusted in cogeneration plants, or CHP (Combined Heat and Power) plants, further cementing the city’s position as a global leader in green energy solutions. Among those CHP plants spread around the city, using biomass and waste-to-energy for fuel, “Copen Hill” (or Amager Bakke) is one of the most iconic and cleanest in the world.

Copen Hill: A visionary MSWI Plant

Converting approximately 440,000 tons of municipal waste into energy each year, CopenHill stands as a remarkable achievement in engineering and design (Element+, 2020). By seamlessly integrating a massive power facility into the heart of Copenhagen’s city centre, this facility blends functionality with aesthetics, showing how industrial infrastructures can be integrated harmoniously within a city's fabric.

The Amager Bakke incineration facility is a state-of-the-art Municipal Solid Waste Incineration (MSWI) plant, with one of the highest energy recovery efficiencies in Europe. (Basinella et al, 2022). As the largest plant of its kind in the Nordic countries (Hulgaard and Søndergaard, 2018), Amager Bakke processes a substantial portion of Denmark's residual waste, with a treatment capacity of around 600,000 tons annually. Strategically located near residential areas and connected to the urban district heating (DH) network, it supplies electricity and heat to Greater Copenhagen, significantly reducing the city's dependence on fossil fuels like coal and natural gas (Basinella et al., 2022, p. 79). In line with Copenhagen's ambitious goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2025–2030, Amager Bakke plays a crucial role in the city's sustainable energy future, laying the foundation for heat supply in the region beyond 2025 (Københavns Kommune, 2012). However, beyond its energy production, CopenHill has become an iconic symbol of innovative urban design.

Its 85-meter-high structure incorporates a waste-to-energy plant with recreational features like a 200-meter artificial ski slope, hiking trails, climbing walls, and a rooftop park the size of 2.5 soccer fields (Nordestgaard et al., 2019). This transformation into a public space reflects a bold approach to integrating industrial infrastructure with urban life, combining sustainability, architecture, and leisure (Element +, 2020). Hence, besides being an exceptional green energy facility, CopenHill also embodies a statement about how sustainable cities can balance utility with livability, thereby benefiting both people and the planet.

III. Green city: it driven urban development

Beyond green mobility and energy, Copenhagen’s commitment to sustainability also encompasses the shaping of a green city’s environment, leveraging digital technologies and data driven insights to optimize urban spaces and foster safety (Petrea et al, 2023). By embracing innovative tech solutions, Copenhagen has been working to foster a harmonious integration of architecture and information systems.

Among the ways in which the city dedicated itself to uphold sustainability practices in urban development, Copenhagen has been implementing very strict standards for promoting eco-friendly construction practices. The city has been placing a strong emphasis on the development of sustainable and energy efficient buildings by promoting the adoption of green materials, such as solar panels or green roofs as well as by integrating energy efficient technologies (i.e. smart meters and home automation systems) into residential buildings (Petrea et al, 2023, 232). These smart systems, which ensure the optimization of water and electricity, are also really helpful for the residents that can therefore be aware and monitor their home energy consumption. Additionally, the public lighting systems are constructed to adapt to the weather and environmental conditions, thereby both enhancing energy efficiency and public safety (Petrea et al, 2023).

Waste management is another example of the city's commitment to sustainability through innovation and digital technologies (Petrea et al, 2023, p. 225). Copenhagen uses cutting-edge waste collection systems that use underground vacuum tubes to deliver waste straight to recycling facilities, lowering emissions by reducing the need for cars and conventional collection trucks. By streamlining routes and guaranteeing prompt waste disposal with little environmental impact, smart sensors further improve efficiency (p. 225). In addition to using data analytics to optimize waste management, the municipality oversees a number of circular economy awareness campaigns that have helped to foster a culture of recycling, reuse, and waste reduction in which citizens are highly sensitive and active. In terms of recycling, Copenhagen has recycled 90% of its waste in recent years thanks to strict waste separation policies. These include well-publicized campaigns encouraging the sorting of materials like paper and cardboard, bio-waste, and residual waste, which have contributed significantly to the city's impressive recycling rate (C40, 2023).

Furthermore, as in the case of smart mobility, citizens are also directly involved in decision-making processes in regards to the multifaceted aspects of urban life. For instance, they can submit feedback and insights on how to optimize it by using accessible digital platforms (Borup Lynggard & Bagger-Petersen, 2019, as cited in Petrea et al. 2022, p.231). Additionally, mobile apps provide the residents with constant updates and data on air quality, public transportation and energy consumption, making them able to take informed decision to contribute to the quality of life and sustainability of their city (p. 231).

Overall, Copenhagen has redefined urban living by putting people at the heart of its smart city vision, which includes smart infrastructure, digital services, and citizen-centric initiatives (Petrea et al., 2022). To delve deeper into this aspect of urban sustainable design innovation, the following section will look at two concrete and iconic examples of green urban design projects.

IV. Green urban design innovation: iconic case studies

When looking at Copenhagen, it is difficult to pick just a few examples to explore the city's innovative approach to urban planning. Copenhagen was officially designated as the World Capital of Architecture by UNESCO in 2023, following a recommendation from the International Union of Architects' General Assembly (UIA). In that year, the city became a forum for discussion on contemporary architectural issues under the theme "Sustainable Futures - Leaving No One Behind," which investigated how urban design contributes to the achievement of the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNESCO, 2021). However, among the projects exemplifying urban climate adaptation and enhancement of public spaces, the Green Heart Square (Skt. Kjelds Plads) and the Nordhavn neighborhood, are especially relevant to address.

The Green Square: Skt. Kjelds Plads

The Sankt Kjelds Square and Bryggervangen project in Copenhagen represents the city's largest and greenest climate adaptation initiative, transforming a formerly grey, traffic-heavy area into a vibrant, green, and biodiverse urban nature space (LILA, 2019). By integrating climate adaptation, rainwater management, and nature-based urban development, the project fulfills both practical and aesthetic goals, enhancing biodiversity while promoting citizens’ well-being (LILA, 2019).

At the heart of this initiative is the vision of harmoniously embedding infrastructures into Copenhagen’s urban fabric to bolster resilience against extreme weather events, such as the increasingly frequent heavy rains anticipated in the coming decades (Klimakvarter). To this end, Sankt Kjelds Square provides 34,000 square meters specifically designed for flood management, employing cutting-edge climate adaptation technologies (Klimakvarter, n.d.; ACO, 2024). The project features an advanced drainage system that uses innovative methods like the “First Flush” one, which channels the most polluted rainwater to the sewers while allowing cleaner runoff to infiltrate green areas (ACO, 2024). This system not only supports plant growth but also creates sustainable blue-green spaces. Moreover, 30% of the rainwater is managed on the surface in these green areas, with overflow during heavy rains redirected through specialized channels to the harbor (Klimakvarter). During winter, potassium formate replaces traditional road salt, ensuring safer, non-icy roads while enabling better water infiltration into the green infrastructure (Klimakvarter).

Key design elements of this “Green Square” further enhance urban resilience and ecological health. These include the planting of 586 new trees from 48 local species, the construction of green rain gardens to manage cloudbursts, and the creation of outdoor spaces for community activities (LILA, 2019). Together, these features help reduce air and noise pollution, mitigate the urban heat island effect, and significantly boost biodiversity and a social life in contact with nature.

Indeed, the Sankt Kjelds Square, created as part of Copenhagen’s "Climate District" initiative, shows how cities can seamlessly integrate green infrastructure to create more resilient, biodiverse, and livable environments. This nature-based design not only improves sociality and quality of life for residents but also serves as a replicable model for urban planners worldwide. With the Green Square, the ongoing project of enhancement for the neighborhood Nordhavn, is another iconic proof of the multifaceted benefits of sustainable urban development.

Nordhavn: a visionary full-scale smart-city energy lab

Nordhavn, once an industrial and grey port area near Copenhagen’s harbor, is on its way to becoming one of Europe’s coolest neighborhoods (BBC, 2024). The transformation began in 2008, when Copenhagen launched a competition for architectural firms to design a sustainable district for the city’s future. The visionary proposal by COBE Architects, Sleth, Rambøll, and Polyform was selected as the winner (BBC, 2024). The architects envisioned Nordhavn as an area of "soft mobility” designed to make life easier by ensuring that everything—from schools and offices to fitness centers, commercial spaces, and cultural venues—is within a five-minute walk of any point in the district. This concept addresses the challenges of contemporary commuting, which not only impacts quality of life but also has significant environmental consequences. As Andersen, an architect from BRIQ Studio, explained to the BBC, shaping a better future requires learning from what worked in the past. This means adopting a holistic, 360-degree approach to sustainability that reduces energy consumption while placing social and economic inclusion at the heart of urban planning. Andersen highlighted the benefits of past urban models, where small dairy shops and craftsman stores enriched local economies and fostered social connections (BBC, 2024).

In line with this philosophy, Nordhavn has been designed to prioritize walking and public transport over driving, creating highly livable hybrid spaces that mix recreational, cultural, and commercial venues. These spaces aim to foster community among residents, young people, and tourists alike. In practical terms, this vision means that in Nordhavn, “a multi-story car park might feature a gym on its roof, an apartment building could include a public restaurant, and a hotel might house a concept store” (Andersen, 2020, BBC, 2024). In addition to promoting a culture of soft mobility in urban planning, Nordhavn's development emphasizes resilience to climate change and the adoption of sustainable energy solutions. As a full-scale smart city energy lab, Nordhavn demonstrates how electricity, heating, buildings, and transportation can integrate into an intelligent and flexible energy system.

Many buildings in Nordhavn embrace circular economy principles, utilizing recyclable materials to minimize environmental impact. For instance, the "Big Bio Cinema", the city’s newest theater, is constructed from aluminum to ensure environmental responsibility even if the structure is decommissioned in the future (BBC, 2024). Similarly, the Copenhagen International School and the UN City exemplify energy-efficient design in Nordhavn, supported by innovative smart energy solutions such as the FlexHeat heat pump (State of Green, 2022). Additional smart city initiatives in the area include intelligent waste management systems and low-temperature district heating (State of Green, 2022).

In brief, Nordhavn is a vibrant neighborhood that combines intelligent solutions, livability, and sustainability, guided by principles of inclusivity in design. Beyond prioritizing environmental care, everything in Nordhavn is built to be accessible to people of all ages and abilities. This design’s inclusivity, which fosters a welcoming sense of belonging for all, translates into positive citizen practices, encouraging individuals to adopt green lifestyles to shape a more equitable world – a world in which no one is left behind. Building on this reflection on smart living habits, the following paragraph delves deeper into the socio-cultural impacts of Copenhagen's shift towards sustainability on its citizens.

4. Citizens Behavioural Shifts: Incorporation of Sustainability in Daily-Life

Copenhagen’s sustainability initiatives have had tangible social and cultural impacts. By expanding access to green spaces, fostering eco-friendly habits, and ensuring inclusivity in urban planning, the city has directly improved residents’ quality of life and set a global standard for socially conscious urban development.

Copenhagen dedicates 30% of its land to green spaces, ensuring that 96% of residents live within a 15-minute walk of a park or recreational area (BCI Hub, 2017). These accessible spaces are not only hubs for leisure but also essential for mental and physical health, reducing urban stress and promoting community interaction. Projects like Superkilen Park in Nørrebro, designed to reflect the neighborhood’s multicultural character, offer safe, vibrant areas for exercise and social engagement (Gehl, 2015). Cycling infrastructure has also enhanced daily life for Copenhagen’s residents. Over 546 kilometers of bike lanes connect the city, enabling 62% of the population to use bicycles as their primary mode of transport (BCI Hub, 2017). This has cut car dependency, improved air quality, and reduced commuting stress. The city’s public transport system complements these efforts with accessible, eco-friendly options, including electric buses and metro lines (C40, 2023).

Sustainability in Copenhagen has become part of its citizens’ daily routines. Eating habits have changed, with many citizens adopting a plant-based diet and many schools no longer serving beef, sheep or veal, in order to help to reduce CO2 emissions resulting from the meat industry (Compass; Gfi 2023). Recycling is widespread, with 64% of household waste being recycled or composted (Amager Resource Center, 2017). The innovative Amager Bakke plant exemplifies the city’s integrated approach, converting waste into electricity and heating for thousands of homes while encouraging residents to participate actively in waste reduction. Cycling is another key behavioral shift. Campaigns like “Bike to Work” and infrastructure investments such as the Bicycle Superhighway have normalized cycling as a sustainable, efficient, and affordable way of commuting. These initiatives ensure inclusivity, allowing children, seniors, and people with disabilities to safely navigate the city on two wheels (C40, 2023). Urban gardening initiatives are also gaining traction, with community gardens providing fresh products while strengthening neighborhood bonds. These small but impactful projects underscore the shift toward localized, sustainable living practices.

Copenhagen’s approach to urban planning emphasizes equity, ensuring all residents benefit from its sustainability initiatives. For example, the redevelopment of Nordhavn integrates affordable housing with high-end developments, maintaining socio-economic diversity while offering green spaces and public amenities (Academia, 2024).

Cycling infrastructure and public transport systems are designed with accessibility in mind. Features like wide bike lanes, curb ramps, and wheelchair-friendly buses ensure that Copenhagen’s sustainability efforts include individuals with varying physical abilities (C40, 2023). Additionally, multicultural spaces like Superkilen Park reflect the city’s commitment to representing and serving its diverse population. Inclusivity extends to the city’s participatory planning process. Regular consultations with residents allow communities to shape projects that meet their specific needs, fostering a sense of ownership and engagement.

With green culture flourishing among citizens and an increasing number of Copenhageners embracing sustainable living and close-knit communities, the rise of eco-villages has also become a defining trend. As the 2025 deadline for the CPH 2025 Climate Plan approaches, it also heralds the effective launch of one of the world’s most remarkable eco-villages: the UN17 Village. Situated in Ørestad, Copenhagen, this project is among the most ambitious sustainable building initiatives to date, designed to incorporate all 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into a single construction. The architects have adopted a holistic approach, emphasizing six key themes—materials, energy, water, biodiversity, health, and community—to embed sustainability into every facet of the design (UN17 Village, Nrep).

With the purpose of scalability in mind, the UN17 Village is a forward-thinking housing project that brings sustainability and community together. It consists of five buildings that will house 830 people, whose design has been carefully planned to support the 17SDGs. For instance, each rooftop is equipped with solar panels and all buildings are constructed using eco-friendly materials, such as FutureCem, a cement that reduces CO2 emissions by 30% compared to regular cement (UN17 Village, Nrep). Recycling is a big focus too, with aluminum facades made from recycled materials and staircases built from concrete mixed with leftover glass and ceramics, giving them a unique look. Water-saving faucets are installed throughout the kitchens and bathrooms, and a rainwater irrigation system helps water the plants in the courtyards. (UN17 Village, Nrep). Additionally, residents can use an app to track green energy production, making it easy to see when energy is at its most sustainable and affordable.

But the UN17 Village it’s not just about the environment; it is also about community. Common areas like kitchens, lounges, and rooftop terraces are designed to encourage people to spend time together, with a Community Manager in charge to help newcomers settle in and organize community building activities (UN17 Village, Nrep). At the core of the project, there is the idea that by sharing more and living closer, citizens not only take care of the planet, but also of each other. Living in a connected sustainable community can boost both physical and mental health, and that is what UN17 Village is about.

To conclude, Copenhagen’s sustainability efforts have transformed its culture, embedding eco-friendly practices into the city’s identity and life choices. Cycling and recycling are no longer seen as environmental obligations but as integral to everyday life. This cultural shift has improved the urban environment and also strengthened social cohesion, as residents share a collective commitment to sustainability. By integrating environmental priorities with social equity, Copenhagen has become a global example of how cities can align sustainability with human-centric development. Its model offers a clear framework for improving both the environment and urban living standards worldwide.

5. Conclusion

Copenhagen’s transformation into a global leader in sustainability is not an endpoint but a dynamic process, offering a living blueprint for cities seeking to navigate the complexities of the 21st century. Its journey underscores that urban sustainability is not about achieving a fixed ideal but about continuously adapting to evolving challenges, technologies, and cultural expectations. As the city nears its carbon-neutral target, its story invites reflection on what comes next, not only for Copenhagen but for the broader global community.

The next frontier for Copenhagen lies in scaling its successes while addressing emerging challenges. Achieving deeper energy efficiency, enhancing climate resilience in the face of more frequent extreme weather events, and ensuring that inclusivity remains central in an increasingly globalized urban context are critical priorities. Future innovations in circular economy practices, artificial intelligence for resource optimization, and community co-design of urban spaces will likely define Copenhagen’s next chapter.

Copenhagen’s role as a catalyst for global urban transformation also carries a growing responsibility. As a model city, it must actively share knowledge, frameworks, and tools with other cities, particularly those in the Global South, where urbanization pressures are most acute. The city’s partnerships, from climate alliances to architectural collaborations, can seed scalable solutions that align with diverse geographic and cultural contexts. Most importantly, Copenhagen demonstrates that a city’s identity is not static but can be redefined by its values. By continuing to embrace boldness, creativity, and collective action, Copenhagen has the potential to inspire the next wave of urban transformations, where cities are not just places to live but engines of progress, resilience, and hope.

Looking beyond, Copenhagen’s legacy will be measured not only by its ability to sustain its green achievements but also by how it evolves to address new global challenges. Whether through deeper engagement in global climate policy or by reimagining urban systems for greater equity and livability, Copenhagen’s story is far from over. It remains a city that leads not by declaration but by example, paving the way for a sustainable and inclusive urban future that benefits all.

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