Three metropolises in the climate dialogue: Vienna, Hamburg and Zurich united!

Three metropolises in the climate dialogue: Vienna, Hamburg and Zurich united!

On June 11th and 12th, 2023, the city leaders of Vienna, Hamburg and Zurich met in Vienna as part of the “Triologue”. Mayor Michael Ludwig welcomed the Mayor of Zurich, Corine Mauch, and Hamburg's First Mayor, Peter Tschentscher, to discuss pressing issues such as climate protection and renewable energies. This initiative, which has existed since 2019, has now established itself as an important meeting point for exchange between metropolises.

Sustainability in focus

During their visit, the three politicians visited, among other things, Wien Energie's large heat pump in Simmering. Mayor Ludwig described this innovative system as exemplary. Corine Mauch was impressed by the dimensions of the pumping station and compared it to a similar facility in Zurich, which is significantly smaller. Peter Tschentscher also admitted that Hamburg is behind Vienna in the development of large heat pumps, but initial plans have been initiated to catch up in this area.

Furthermore, the waste disposal project “waste2value” was discussed, another building block for sustainable urban development. This shows that not only energy supply, but also resource use played a central role in the discussions.

Urban partnerships and climate goals

City leaders agreed that international cooperation is essential to address the shared challenges of climate change and the energy transition. With the aim of achieving the Paris climate goals, more and more cities are committing to assuming their responsibility in climate protection. The importance of such networks is also highlighted by the climate and energy partnerships, which promote dialogue between Germany and 33 partner countries worldwide. These initiatives aim to achieve climate neutrality by 2045 and promote progress in partner countries.

Another central topic is the expansion of renewable energies, especially heat supply via local and district heating networks. The thermal recycling of waste also plays an important role. Municipal heat plans, which are now being drawn up in various federal states, offer clarity and planning security for both companies and homeowners. In Germany, these plans must be implemented by June 30, 2026 for municipalities with more than 100,000 inhabitants and by June 30, 2028 for smaller municipalities.

Setting the course for the future

The experiences from Vienna, Hamburg and Zurich can serve as a model for other cities that have to overcome similar challenges. Extreme weather events, such as floods and heat waves, present cities with ever greater challenges. Measures to adapt the infrastructure and improve energy efficiency are therefore at the top of the agenda.

In summary, it can be said that exchange and cooperation between these innovative metropolises can make an important contribution to solving global problems. By thinking outside the box and learning from each other, solutions can be found that have a positive impact not only locally, but also globally.

For everyone who is interested in current developments in the areas of climate and energy, these meetings are a sign that much can be achieved together. The challenges may be great, but with a strong network and the will to change you can achieve a lot.

meinkreis.at | climateandenergypartnerships.org | staedtetag.de