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Day 1: Spittelau Incinerator – A Fusion of Technology and Art 

The study tour started in Vienna, where participants visited the iconic Spittelau Waste Incinerator. Designed by the famous architect Friedensreich Hundertwasser, this facility is a perfect combination of functionality, ecological goals and artistic design. It processes around 250,000 tons of waste per year, from which it produces energy to heat homes and public buildings, including the Vienna General Hospital.

Day Two: Maribor and Ljubljana – Cities for People 

On the second day, the study tour participants visited the Slovenian cities of Maribor and Ljubljana, which are exemplary examples of sustainable urban development.

Maribor is undergoing a significant transformation of public spaces. The reconstruction of the main square and the construction of pedestrian zones have dramatically improved the quality of life of residents and created an attractive environment for tourists. Among the most significant projects is the pedestrian and bicycle bridge over the Drava River, which will connect the center with the surrounding residential areas from 2022.

In the capital of Slovenia, the participants heard examples of successful projects, of which more than 2,500 have been implemented since 2007. Ljubljana today has one of the largest pedestrian zones in Europe (20 hectares), an extensive system of cycle paths and efficient public transport, including shared bicycles and free electric buses for vulnerable groups of residents. The city is part of the international MISSION 100 project, which aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030.

Day Three: Budapest – Public Spaces for the Future 

The Hungarian metropolis of Budapest is proof that the transformation of public spaces can be successful if supported by enlightened leaders and active cooperation with experts. During a walk with Áron Halász, an expert on sustainable mobility, participants saw concrete examples of street renovation, expanding pedestrian zones and creating new public spaces. The MOL Bubi bike sharing system and the expansion of cycle paths are further steps that contribute to green transport in the city.

Day Four: Győr – a regional centre with potential 

The study tour ended in Győr, which, despite its smaller size, faces challenges associated with intensive traffic. The city is working on revitalising brownfield sites, developing cycling infrastructure and creating new public spaces. Local experts highlighted the need for better cooperation between the city government and experts, which could accelerate positive changes.

The study tour, which was implemented within the LIFE IP project – Improving Air Quality, provided participants with valuable insights and examples of good practice that can be an inspiration for cities in Slovakia. The key to success is vision, professional cooperation and consistent implementation of measures that prioritize the quality of life of residents and sustainability over a one-sided focus on motor transport. The final report and presentations can be found at: https://populair.sk/sk/podujatie/762