The EU is currently working on its next Framework Program for Research and Innovation, FP10, which will run from 2028 to 2034. IQ Samhällsbyggnad and Viable Cities, together with other Swedish strategic innovation programs and stakeholders in the urban development sector, are now calling on the government to advocate for a European initiative focused on sustainable urban development and urban transition.
Europe faces major challenges related to climate change, energy supply, resource use, security, and competitiveness. Many of the solutions lie in our cities and communities—in how we plan, build, renovate, and manage the built environment. That is why it is important for sustainable urban development to be given a clear place in FP10.
– In a position paper to the government, we therefore urge the relevant ministries responsible for research, innovation, infrastructure, and business advocate for the inclusion of sustainable urban development and urban transition among Sweden’s priority contributions to the European Commission ahead of FP10. This would strengthen both Sweden’s competitiveness and Europe’s ability to develop climate-adapted, resilient, and attractive communities, says Katarina Schylberg, program manager for Driving Urban Transitions at IQ Samhällsbyggnad
Viable Cities believes that continued European collaboration and investment in research and innovation are crucial for developing, testing, and scaling solutions that can contribute to climate-neutral and sustainable cities in Sweden and Europe. Continued European efforts in these areas are important for strengthening Sweden’s competitiveness and contributing to the transition to climate-neutral, resource-efficient, resilient, and attractive communities in Europe.
Joint position paper
7 reasons why we want to see sustainable urban development and urban transition in the framework program:
1. It is central to both Swedish and European development.
Sustainable urban development brings together climate goals, energy security, resource efficiency, resilience, social cohesion, and industrial competitiveness.
2. Sweden can maintain its leading international position in innovation.
3. Swedish companies can strengthen their competitiveness and the Swedish economy.
4. Swedish actors can become more competitive in Europe.
5. Swedish municipalities need to strengthen their implementation capacity.
6. Swedish investments gain greater leverage.
7. Sweden gains increased influence.
In addition to IQ Samhällsbyggnad, the letter is supported by Skanska Sweden, Tyréns Sweden, Ramboll Sweden, Sweco Architects, NCC, Peab, White, Ragn Sells, as well as the innovation programs: ShiftSweden, Viable Cities, Smart Built Environment, and Re:Source.
