In 2023, we joined the international NiCE project, which focuses on transforming the central areas of selected European cities towards the introduction of circular and more sustainable consumption patterns.

European city centres used to be busy, resource-intensive consumption hubs, but due to the coronavirus pandemic and the gradual shift of commerce to an online environment, many shops have had to close and supply chains have been disrupted. Alternative consumption models leading to greater circularity and sustainability are on the rise, but due to the current framework conditions, these models remain only in their nice-to-haves. Consumers therefore lack a central and easily accessible supply of alternative forms of consumption.

The NiCE project focuses on two main challenges – the transformation of central places in cities that make it easier for their inhabitants to realise sustainable lifestyles, and at the same time the (re)revitalisation of centres in a way that is more respectful of the principles of the circular economy. The project will present different practical approaches in different settings that foster new forms of consumption and make them visible in urban centres, while bringing together all relevant stakeholders.

Educational, inspirational and exchange formats at international, national and regional level will bring the results of the project to cities, regions, providers of alternative consumption and business models, civil associations and policy makers and invite further joint activities related to the establishment of circular urban centres across Central Europe.

Planned activities:

1. Assessment of the current situation and analysis of the needs of target groups to assess sustainable consumption patterns and promote circular business models. The result will be a “monitoring tool” to help quickly analyse the current status, challenges and potential of circular economy compliant lifestyles in cities, and a summary report of our findings.
2. Virtual exhibition – conceptualising, preparing and implementing a virtual exhibition of more than 30 inspiring examples showing how sustainable lifestyles have been implemented in urban centres, supported by the presentation of at least 15 useful tools to promote, support and sustain them.
3. Joint development of a strategic framework for the promotion and implementation of circular economy lifestyles in cities/urban centres to guide local and regional governments.
4. International development of pilot approaches, their implementation, evaluation and assessment. Partners will work in international tandems to test four specific approaches in different settings:

• Starting the reuse of spaces in central locations of cities for circular activities
• Implementation and operation of multifunctional “resource centres” for the reuse of central urban spaces
• Linking sustainable online commerce to urban centres, e.g. setting up multifunctional micro-centres or retail as a service
• Activation of users with a relationship to lifestyle in line with the principles of the circular economy