Leuven 2018

The city has experienced rapid population growth over the past decade, bringing both opportunities and challenges to urban development and sustainability.

To address climate change, Leuven has set ambitious goals, committing to achieving carbon neutrality by 2030. The city embraces a participatory approach to its climate initiatives, working closely with Leuven Klimaatneutraal 2030 (LKN2030), an independent non-profit organisation that unites stakeholders from various sectors, including citizens, to tackle climate challenges collaboratively.

Leuven has also prioritised sustainable mobility, making significant strides in enhancing its cycling infrastructure by adding new bike lanes and storage facilities. The city actively promotes car-sharing programs and has introduced car-free zones in the city centre to reduce traffic congestion and emissions.

In water and wastewater management, Leuven has adopted innovative, nature-based solutions. By reopening previously covered streams, the city has improved its capacity to manage floodwater effectively. Plans include expanding green and blue zones, as well as encouraging the installation of green roofs, all aimed at enhancing the city’s resilience to climate impacts while promoting sustainable urban living.

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For more information on Leuven’s sustainability initiatives and achievements, you can explore Leuven’s application, which outlines the city’s environmental strategies and goals. Additional insights can be found in Leuven's presentation, which highlights key projects and community engagement efforts. The EGLA Technical Assessment Report - Award Cycle 2018 provides a detailed evaluation of Leuven’s performance across various environmental criteria, while Leuven’s Post Assessment Report for 2018 offers a comprehensive overview of the city’s progress following its recognition.