Let’s learn how to do better with less

Despite the several crises we had to deal with in the last decades, the EU still has to learn how to wisely use its – not infinite – resources. Strong political action is essential to strengthening strategic autonomy, resilience and competitiveness while delivering well-being for all.

Energy Cities’ commitment to a fairer, cleaner, and more resilient Europe is tireless. In March 2024, together with about 100 associations from all over Europe, we published the first manifesto on resource-wise management calling on EU decision-makers to prioritise sufficiency in the EU’s strategic agenda. Covering energy, water, soil and materials, the manifesto highlights how a more sober approach is essential for social justice, the EU’s resilience, and the climate transition.

From renovating and giving new life to abandoned buildings (for example, discover what Verona is doing) to fostering a circular economy and limiting urban sprawl, there are a variety of big and small actions that municipalities can take to use our resources more wisely while providing citizens with the services and tools they need.

The Arsenal: the first French circular economy and reuse school project

How are cities integrating this way of thinking into their policies?

The Arsenal site in Besançon (France) is an excellent example. Once a military site of 7,000 m2, it became a School of Medicine and then a School of Literature whose renovation is set to be completed this summer. This is the first circular economy and reuse school project launched by the French government. The project owner chose to test the circular economy on a large scale and also to create a communication and training tool. All the materials, such as carpentry, woodwork, sanitary facilities, light fixtures, furniture, ashlar, rafters, concrete pieces, metal cable trays, and door handles, have been reused to rehabilitate the new university site.

On 9 April, during our Annual Forum, you will have the opportunity to visit the Arsenal site and get inspired by the work carried out by Hôp hop hop, an association made up of urban professionals aiming to take over spaces, temporarily or not, to work, get together, exchange ideas and create collective projects.

Cities’ leadership in reuse and sufficiency

In addition to this insightful visit, Energy Cities proposes two interesting workshops.

Building circular cities, municipal leadership in reuse and sufficiency will showcase practical strategies, real-world examples and tools local governments can use to embed circularity and sufficiency into urban development and sufficiency while addressing urban challenges through circular economy solutions. Indeed, from creating circular hubs to supporting green jobs, municipalities are proving that reuse and sufficiency fuel environmental, social and economic progress. Let’s learn from their experience!

Finally, during the collective intelligence workshop, participants will brainstorm together to address challenges and difficulties faced by some cities in developing and implementing their projects.

Find out more information on the Doing better with less journey here.

Have you already registered to attend the Energy Cities Annual Forum? Don’t miss out on this great chance to learn more about how sufficiency measures can make your city more resilient, as well as to network and exchange with peers dealing with the green transition. You are not alone in the journey towards sustainability: Energy Cities and its members are here to inspire and support you. On 8-10 April, join us in Besançon!