Interview with Katja Reich and Meike Weber

How have the requirements shifted from pure energy efficiency to climate neutrality?
Originally, the primary goal was to limit greenhouse gas emissions in the building sector. Municipalities were seen as having a pioneering role in this regard. However, through its own city council resolutions, the City of Munich adopted further ambitious measures, aimed at achieving a climate-neutral city and adapting urban infrastructure. This holistic concept includes measures for climate protection, climate adaptation, and resource conservation.

What specific climate targets is the City of Munich pursuing?
The entire city aims to become climate-neutral by 2035, while the municipal administration is striving to reach this goal as early as 2030.

What role do educational buildings play in this context?
Daycare centers, schools, and sports facilities play a key role, as their large number makes them among the biggest energy consumers in the public sector.

Where is Munich focusing its efforts, and what does the package of measures look like?
To better structure its approach, six climate modules for climate-friendly and sustainable construction methods have been developed. These range from measures to increase energy efficiency and expand renewable energy use to the integration of more greenery and biodiversity. Regarding building materials, the increased use of renewable resources is being promoted, along with recycling and reuse in other projects (re-use). In addition, overarching processes that incorporate all these core topics are integrated into the development of municipally owned properties and continuously refined.

Are there other innovative approaches?
Yes. In the field of photovoltaics, for example, pilot projects have already been implemented in some schools and daycare centers. These include a ball-stop fence with integrated photovoltaic modules, the use of photovoltaics in combination with green roofs, façade-integrated systems, as noise barriers, or as shading elements.

Who does the City of Munich collaborate with to develop new concepts?
New concepts emerge partly from market innovations that are implemented and evaluated within the framework of pilot projects, and partly from research. For this purpose, the City of Munich frequently collaborates with universities, as well as with other research and development partners, to apply innovative systems, processes, and materials. Or to evaluate solutions that have already been implemented. One example is the reuse of entire building components, which can be salvaged during controlled demolition and reused in other construction projects. A tool has since been developed that allows components to be cataloged before a building is demolished and enables databases to be searched for required components for upcoming construction projects.

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