The annual Sustainable City Challenge gives the younger generation a chance to show their ideas for a greener, cleaner and more sustainable Utrecht. In this competition it’s up to students from all over the region of Utrecht to pitch their idea for the best innovative solutions.
Although this particular competition might just be a local effort, it fits into the bigger picture of the Urban Agenda for the EU. This Urban Agenda is a collaboration between the European Commission, national ministries, city authorities and stakeholders, aiming to improve the quality of life in cities in Europe. According to the Urban Agenda, cities like Utrecht should aim to become smarter, greener and more inclusive by tackling challenges like housing, mobility and climate change.
Jaimie’s scale model tunnel-systems
To pursue this Urban Agenda, Utrecht is looking at a younger generation to help think about what a city needs to develop further. Regional Deputy of Utrecht, André van Schie, explains why in his speech at the finals, addressing the participating students: ‘It’s great for us as a community to have young people think about their future. Because it’s not just the old people. It’s about your generation that has to make the difference in society.’
