The conference 'Grafting Cities: Cultivating our common future' looked at concrete examples of the transformation needed and explored how we can achieve our climate goals in an ever-changing local landscape. Municipal representatives from across Europe had the opportunity to engage in high-level plenary sessions, interactive workshops, informal open space formats and enjoyable networking opportunities. Co-organised with long-standing partner network Energy Cities and Climate Alliance members Modena and AESS, the event provided a unique setting for this year's Climate Alliance General Assembly and International Conference, CAIC23.
During the CAIC23/Climate Alliance International Conference, held in Modena (IT) from 18 to 20 October, Climate Alliance presented the WHY project to 23 participants. Nina Stiehr, Climate Management of the City of Maintal (DE), presented the WHY project in more detail. In total, the interactive workshop lasted two hours and was divided into three topic groups with different projects.
The interactive session "Shaping our built environment" addresses [WH1] the urgent need for improved energy efficiency in both new construction and renovation. It explores strategies to ensure quality beyond minimum standards, effective municipal communication with citizens, and priorities in urban planning. With a focus on quality communication and urban planning, this workshop will provide a platform for municipal stakeholders to engage in dynamic discussions, share experiences, ask questions and seek solutions to current challenges in the conversion of old buildings and developing new areas. 23 participants of municipal stakeholders from different EU countries participated at the Workshop.
The presentation during the workshop explored the climate management efforts in the city of Maintal, Germany, led by Nina Stiehr. The city is currently developing a concept for a climate-friendly district heating [WH3] system with the aim of providing renewable energy to residential areas while minimising energy consumption. However, limited funding and the need to keep housing affordable pose challenges. The project is considering heat pumps, solar energy and biomass options, driven by the municipality's commitment to creating a climate-friendly neighbourhood. Key issues include decision-making, financial support, noise concerns, renovation guidelines and finding solutions for energy efficient, public and historic [WH4] buildings. The workshop discussed potential cases, challenges and solutions, emphasising the importance of communication and addressing community frustrations. It also offered a consultancy solution for city officials, highlighting the need for transparency and engagement with key stakeholders to achieve their climate management goals. Key issues include decisions on the choice of standards, financial support from the municipality and the consideration of noise issues, particularly in relation to heat pumps.
The renovation of houses and public buildings also raises issues such as the availability of guidelines for energy efficient buildings, the choice of materials for sustainable, old or listed buildings and possible solutions for accessible renovations. "Be honest, don't promise" highlights the importance of transparent and honest communication in addressing community frustrations and fears. It also emphasizes the importance of engaging with stakeholders, researching solutions from other cities, and setting budgets and staffing levels for urban heat planning projects. Consultation solutions outlined in the presentation include disseminating information through the press and social media, informing policy makers through virtual platforms, allocating resources for project management in heat planning and energy advice, exploring collaboration with businesses and key stakeholders, and organising informative events.