Articles on resource-efficient cities

For the third consecutive year, RISE is bringing together leading players from industry, the public sector, and research to engage in crucial discussions about the future of society. The 2026 edition focuses on sustainable construction—and how new requirements, regulations, and ambitions can be translated into real change.

In the event of a major crisis – or, ultimately, war – much of society would feel the consequences, not least the manufacturing industry. Yet how does one prepare for a scenario that is, in many respects, uncertain? "The most important thing is to have thought it through," says Emma Mattisson, Project Manager at RISE.

Climate transition requires more than visions – it requires action. Across Sweden, several municipalities and cities are leading the way with concrete measures that reduce emissions, strengthen resilience and create sustainable communities. The transition needs to happen on a large scale and at a rapid pace. But how should the transition be financed and how should we solve the major challenge of increased consumption?

Energy communities are a smart way to produce, recycle and share energy between homes, industries and other types of buildings. Since the beginning of the year, energy sharing between residential buildings has been authorized, opening up new possibilities.

Requirements to reduce the environmental impact of buildings are becoming increasingly stringent, including the EU's EPBD directive. One challenge will be to have a complete picture in order to implement the right measures at the right time.

Buildings account for a large proportion of society's energy consumption. But things like inefficient ventilation, excessive cooling or heating, and incorrectly set fans waste a lot of kWh unnecessarily. "Improving energy efficiency may be complex, but it is also profitable," says Sofia Stensson, researcher and project manager at RISE.

A more energy efficient housing stock is an important element for achieving climate goals. But carrying out the necessary renovations is not without problems – it often leads to higher rents, which means that the measures can clash with other goals, such as social sustainability.