The concept of the 15-minute city has gained global attention as a transformative approach to urban living. But what does it mean in practice, and how does it relate to the six cities where CONIFER’s Civic Labs are based?
Why does it matter?
As cities grow, traffic congestion, air pollution, and social isolation become major challenges. The 15-minute city concept helps reclaim urban spaces for people, not just cars, promoting healthier, more connected communities.
15-minute cities in practice: A Look at CONIFER’s Civic Lab locations
Each of CONIFER’s Civic Labs is set in a unique urban environment, offering different perspectives on the feasibility and challenges of implementing 15-minute city principles.
📍 Brussels, Belgium
- Belgium’s capital has made strides in pedestrian-friendly policies, but car dependency remains high.
- 2023 stats show that 60% of trips in Brussels are under 5 km, yet cars are still the dominant mode of transport.
📍 Kortrijk, Belgium
- A mid-sized city with strong cycling infrastructure but room for improvement in public transport accessibility.
- Efforts to revitalize public spaces align well with 15-minute city goals.
📍 Torun, Poland
- A historic city with compact urban form, yet rapid suburban expansion challenges accessibility.
- Ongoing efforts to integrate active mobility solutions into city planning.
📍 Cologne, Germany
- Germany’s fourth-largest city has invested heavily in cycling lanes and low-emission zones.
- However, urban sprawl remains a concern for walkability in outer districts
📍 Matosinhos, Portugal
- A coastal city with a focus on sustainable tourism and smart mobility.
- The 15-minute city concept could help balance tourism with local needs.
📍 Budapest, Hungary
- The city’s historic districts naturally fit the 15-minute city model.
- Challenges include car-dominated road networks and limited cycling infrastructure.
What’s next?
Through the CONIFER project, our Civic Labs will test and refine strategies to enhance walkability and accessibility in these cities. By involving local communities in decision-making, we aim to develop scalable solutions that can be applied across Europe.
Stay tuned for updates as we work towards making European cities more inclusive, sustainable, and people-centered!
👉 Follow our project journey on our social media (LinkedIn, Instagram).
