Czech Republic at a crossroads: will the Scandinavian way help us to sustainable and affordable housing?
In recent years, housing (not only) in Prague has become increasingly unaffordable. At the end of last year, the capital even ranked among the most expensive cities in the world in terms of housing costs. The average price per square metre here averaged €4,896 (CZK 122,500), ranking it 14th among the most expensive European cities. This is mainly due to a lack of new construction, high demand for property and a relatively small number of available apartments. For the average citizen, this means that he or she needs more than eleven annual salaries for a new 70 square metre apartment.
But it is not just Prague, our other big cities are facing the same problem and it is time to start addressing it in a meaningful way. But these challenges clearly require new approaches. One option is to take inspiration from countries that are known for their successful models of affordable and sustainable housing - the Scandinavian countries.
Scandinavian sustainable housing
Architectural and technological solutions
The Scandinavian countries, particularly Sweden and Denmark, are pioneers in the use of eco-friendly materials and timber buildings. These materials are not only environmentally friendly but also energy efficient. In Sweden, for example, it is common to use wood as the main building material, which not only reduces the ecological footprint but also improves the energy efficiency of buildings.
In addition to wood, there are many other environmentally friendly materials and innovative technologies in Scandinavia that are both environmentally friendly and energy efficient. These include. hempcrete (Hempcrete), which is lightweight, has excellent insulation properties and is fully recyclable, geopolymer concrete, which is an alternative to traditional cement that uses industrial waste (fly ash and slag)as the main ingredients, which has a lower carbon footprint than traditional concrete and is very resistant to chemical and physical influences, or sheep wool, which is used as insulation and has excellent thermal insulation properties and is fully biodegradable. It is used to insulate walls, roofs and floors and is popular for its environmental friendliness and its ability to regulate moisture.
Energy efficiency is a key element of the Scandinavian approach. The use of renewable energy sources such as solar panels and heat pumps is standard in these countries. These technologies reduce the running costs of buildings and contribute to sustainability. In Denmark, for example, solar panels are often used not only to generate electricity but also to heat water, further reducing the energy consumption of houses.
Social aspects
Another important aspect of the Scandinavian approach is the focus on the social aspects of housing. Cohousing models, which are popular in Norway for example, promote community living and social cohesion. These models include shared spaces and facilities, which reduces housing costs while strengthening community ties. In cohousing, residents have their own apartments but share common spaces such as kitchens, laundry rooms or gardens, which encourages interaction and cooperation between neighbours.
Few cohousing projects are already being implemented in the Czech Republic, so we will have to wait a while to see whether this concept has a chance of success here.
Participatory planning is another key element. Local communities are actively involved in the decision-making process for new projects, ensuring that the development responds to the needs of the residents. In Sweden, for example, there are local councils where residents can discuss and influence plans for the development of their neighbourhoods. This approach not only improves the quality of life but also fosters a sense of belonging and responsibility for their neighbourhood.
Financial mechanisms for more affordable housing
Subsidies and subsidies
Governments in Scandinavia provide various forms of financial support and subsidies for the construction and renovation of housing. In Sweden, for example, there are programmes that support the construction of affordable housing through tax breaks and direct subsidies. These financial mechanisms help to reduce the overall cost of construction and ensure that new housing is affordable even for low-income groups. The Danish government also provides subsidies for renovations of existing dwellings to make them more energy efficient and sustainable.
Public-private cooperation
Public-private partnerships are another key element. These collaborations enable large-scale affordable housing projects to be implemented where the public sector provides support and the private sector carries out the construction. In Norway, for example, there is a model where city councils work with developers to build housing complexes that are partly publicly funded. This model ensures that resources are used efficiently and that projects are delivered more quickly.
Sustainable city living
Green infrastructure
Scandinavian cities are known for integrating green infrastructure such as parks, green roofs and community gardens into the urban environment. These measures improve the quality of life of residents and promote sustainability. Green roofs and walls not only improve the aesthetics of cities, but also contribute to better water management and reduce the temperature in cities. Copenhagen, for example, has an extensive green roof system that helps reduce temperature fluctuations and improves air quality.
Transport and mobility
Promoting cycling and public transport is another important aspect. Cities such as Copenhagen and Stockholm have a well-developed cycling infrastructure that ensures safe and easy movement around the city. Cycle paths are well maintained and connect all important parts of the city, encouraging the daily use of the bicycle as the main means of transport. Public transport is also efficient and environmentally friendly, with an emphasis on low emissions and passenger comfort.
Supporting local communities
Projects aimed at supporting local communities and participatory planning ensure that urban development responds to the needs of residents. Awareness-raising campaigns raise awareness of the benefits of sustainable living and motivate residents to become actively involved in these initiatives. In Finland, for example, there are programmes that support local initiatives to improve public spaces, which include everything from establishing community gardens to organising local markets and cultural events.
A quality network of cycle paths is an essential part of sustainable urban living. At least Prague is doing very well and this network is constantly growingPhoto: Adobe Stock
Perspectives and inspiration
Local applications
Much discussion focuses on how Scandinavian models could be adapted to Czech conditions. It has been emphasised that cooperation between the public and private sectors and the involvement of local communities in decision-making processes is a key element for success. Another important aspect is the need for support from the government and city councils in order to introduce the necessary changes in legislation and funding.
Inspiration from the Scandinavian countries can make a significant contribution to solving the problems of housing affordability and sustainability. Implementing these approaches could help the Czech Republic become a more sustainable and affordable place to live. Pilot projects, cooperation with experts and educational campaigns are key steps to achieve this goal.
Fortunately, Prague, for example, is already taking steps towards sustainable and affordable housing. Below are a few current projects that are inspired in many ways by Scandinavian projects.
Current projects in Prague
Emil Kolben Quarter (Skanska). The project offers perfect transport accessibility and low energy consumption, which contributes to the sustainability and affordability of housing.
Timber Prague (Arcus City): This project in Řeporyje, Prague, uses modern timber buildings and technologies such as geothermal boreholes and photovoltaic panels. The aim is to minimise the carbon footprint and ensure energy savings. The project also includes smart home technology and the promotion of electromobility.
Vital Kamýk (JRD): a project focused on healthy and sustainable housing in Prague 12.
Park Quarter (Trigema). The project includes green areas and community spaces.
And how would you like your city to look like? Are you satisfied with the current situation or would you like to see the Scandinavian way implemented as much as possible? Or perhaps you have a completely different idea?
