city overview

nuremberg, nestled in the heart of europe, stands as a beacon of sustainability and environmental consciousness. this historic german city, renowned for its medieval architecture, vibrant markets, and rich cultural heritage, is also making significant strides towards a zero waste future. with a strong commitment to reducing waste, promoting the circular economy, and encouraging repair over replacement, nuremberg is leading by example in the quest for sustainability. its citizens are actively engaged in transforming their urban environment into a more sustainable and waste-free space, making it an ideal case study for zero waste communication.

fun facts

- nuremberg was one of the first german cities to implement a comprehensive waste management system, focusing on recycling and composting.

- the city boasts numerous repair cafes and initiatives, where residents can bring their broken items for repair, fostering a culture of reuse and sustainability.

- it is home to the "nuremberg blue night," an annual event highlighting sustainable art and culture, where artists and creators showcase works made from recycled materials.

- nuremberg's public transportation system is a model of efficiency and sustainability, significantly reducing the city's carbon footprint.

- the city has implemented strict regulations on plastic use in public events, leading to a noticeable decrease in plastic waste.

- local markets in nuremberg prioritize zero waste principles, offering organic produce without packaging and encouraging the use of reusable containers.

- nuremberg's green roof initiative not only enhances urban biodiversity but also plays a vital role in waste water management and provides insulation, reducing energy waste.

- the city is an active participant in the "european green capital" award, reflecting its ongoing efforts to become a leader in urban sustainability and environmental protection.

with its blend of historical charm and forward-thinking environmental policies, nuremberg is a shining example of how cities can embrace zero waste principles and lead the way towards a more sustainable future.

sustainability snapshot

accomplishments and objectives

nuremberg, a city with a rich history and a strong commitment to sustainability, has made significant strides in zero waste and circular economy strategies.

zero waste achievements:

- the introduction of the "orange bin" recycling program has been a major success, allowing residents to dispose of recyclable materials more efficiently.

- nuremberg has implemented a comprehensive composting system for organic waste, reducing landfill usage and creating high-quality compost for local agriculture.

circular economy efforts:

- local businesses and startups are encouraged to participate in the circular economy through incentives and support programs, fostering a network of companies that design products for longevity.

- the city has invested in research and development for materials that are easier to recycle, aiming to set an example in sustainable product design.

repair initiatives:

- nuremberg hosts regular repair cafes, where residents can bring broken items for repair, reducing waste and promoting community knowledge-sharing.

- the city has launched an online platform for sharing and repairing resources, making it easier for citizens to find repair services and extend the life of their products.

ongoing projects:

- development of a zero waste roadmap that sets clear targets for waste reduction and management for the next decade.

- expansion of the current waste management infrastructure to accommodate the growing need for recycling and composting.

future goals:

- to achieve a 50% reduction in household waste by 2030 through education campaigns and the implementation of more stringent waste sorting regulations.

- promote the adoption of zero waste certifications for local businesses, enhancing nuremberg’s reputation as a leader in sustainable urban living.

waste statistics:

- recycling rate: nuremberg boasts a recycling rate of approximately 65%, well above the national average.

- waste generation: the average resident in nuremberg produces around 450 kg of waste per year, with a citywide goal to reduce this by at least 10% in the next five years.

- landfill diversion: through active waste sorting and recycling programs, nuremberg has achieved a landfill diversion rate of approximately 80%.

- repair and reuse: the city has seen a 20% increase in the use of repair services and second-hand shops over the past two years, indicating a growing culture of reuse and repair.

through continuous effort and innovation, nuremberg is setting a sustainable example for urban environments, focusing on not just waste reduction, but also on creating a vibrant circular economy and a strong culture of repair.