Copenhagen

Copenhagen has major climate ambitions, and aims to be the first carbon neutral capital in 2025. The population of Copenhagen is expected to grow by 20 % in the next decade, and Copenhagen want to show that it is possible to combine growth, development and increased quality of life with the reduction of CO2 emissions. To pursue that goal the City Council adopted the ambitious CPH 2025 climate Plan in 2012. The CPH Climate Plan 2025 is based on four pillars:

• Energy Consumption
• Energy Production
• Mobility
• City Administration Initiatives.

Energy consumption will only account for 7 pct. of the total CO2 reduction, but from an overall economic perspective, energy savings are the cheapest way to cut emissions. Partnerships with private building owners and businesses are key to reach saving goals. The production of electricity and heat for Copenhageners is currently the biggest source of CO2 emissions and it is absolutely critical that coal, oil and natural gas are replaced by renewable energy. Efforts in this pillar will account for 80 pct. of the total reduction in 2025, and we are well underway: a new biomass fueled combined heat and power plant will open in 2019 and several more wind turbines are under way. Getting around Copenhagen should be easy, healthy and efficient. Most of the CO2 emissions from transport come from road traffic, and this makes restructuring of road transport a necessary component to cut emissions. In 2025 at least 75 pct. of all trips must be done by foot, by bike or by public transport. One large challenge is to make a much faster change to vehicles driven by electricity, hydrogen and biogas. The work put in by the city administration may only represent 5 pct. of the total CO2 reduction but it has huge significance as a source of inspiration for others. Leading the way in cutting energy use and running vehicles powered by alternative fuels enhances the City of Copenhagen’s credibility.