Soft City: A Critical Evaluation of Copenhagen, Demark
UP52003|Sustainability in Contemporary Cities
UoD ID: 190003041
Yixuan LI
UP52003 Sustainability in Contemporary Cities
Author Yixuan LI
Tutor
Enrico Tommarchi
Husam AI Waer
Vincent Onyango
MArch with Urban Planning
University of Dundee
March 2024
Word Count: 3052
"While the connections of people to nature and people to place are important, I believe the connection of people to other people is the most important. Before we decide what to build, we need to decide how we want to live our lives and what sort of world we want to live in."
—— David Sim
Fig.2 David Sim - Soft City
Executive Summary
This report endeavours to a critical evaluation of the soft city concept as applied to a medium-sized city, focusing specifically on Copenhagen, Denmark. This case study draws upon key theoretical and contextual literature cited throughout the document. To assess Copenhagen's status as a soft city, a critical evaluation framework has been developed. This framework incorporates insights from existing sustainability frameworks relevant to the soft city concept. Furthermore, the report facilitates the evaluation and scoring of Copenhagen's city development, highlighting both successes, failures and areas needing improvement across selected drivers and indicators.
In applying the framework to Copenhagen, it excels in carbon neutrality and sustainable travel, scoring 3.5 out of 4, reflecting its strides towards climate resilience and enhanced livability through energy-efficient building retrofits, decreased fossil fuel use, robust bicycle infrastructure, and the introduction of electric buses. The city also scores well (3 out of 4) in developing green and blue infrastructure, indicating progress in creating better microclimates and enhancing biodiversity. However, it falls short in health and safety, scoring 2 out of 4, due to inadequate focus on air quality and PM 2.5 levels. The urban comfort dimension also requires attention, scoring 2.5 out of 4, signalling the need for more detailed insights into resident preferences and a focus on employment in the green and research sectors for sustainable development.
Overall, Copenhagen's initiatives, as detailed in its strategic roadmaps and analyzed through the soft city framework, reveal a solid potential for the city to evolve further into a soft city. With a Soft City Score of 72.5 out of 100, Copenhagen demonstrates a substantial base for future enhancements in urban sustainability and development.
Fig.3 Cirkelbroen Bridge_Copenhagen
PART A: BACKGROUND STUDIES & DEVELOPING THE S.C.C.E.F.
Executive Summary
1. Introduction
2. Research Contexts
- 2.1 Theory Study - Soft City
- 2.1.1 What is the Soft City?
- 2.2 City Study - Copenhagen, Denmark
- 2.2.1 Copenhagen background study
- 2.2.2 Copenhagen (CPH) 2025 Climate Plan
- 2.2.3 CPH 2025 Climate Plan – Roadmap 2013-2016
- 2.2.4 CPH 2025 Climate Plan – Roadmap 2017-2020
- 2.2.5 CPH 2025 Climate Plan – Roadmap 2021-2025
- 2.2.6 Action Plan for Green Mobility
3. Soft City Critical Evaluation Framework (S.C.C.E.F.) for Copenhagen (CPH)
- 3.1 Developing the S.C.C.E.F. for CPH
- 3.2 Existing Frameworks studies
- 3.2.1 United Nations 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- 3.2.1.1 Dimensions related to Soft City in the SDGs (Graph)
- 3.2.2 Reference Framework for Sustainable Cities European Framework (RFSC EU)
- 3.2.2.1 Dimensions related to Soft City in the SDGs (Graph)
- 3.2.3 OECD Regional Wellbeing (OECD R.W.)
- 3.2.3.1 Dimensions related to Soft City in the OECD R.W. (Graph)
4. Author’s Proposed S.C.C.E.F. for CPH (Considering from Chapter 3.0)
- 4.1 Carbon Neutrality - Table Indicators: Increase in Energy Efficiency of Retrofitted Buildings, and Reduction in Dependence on Fossil Fuels
- 4.2 Green and Blue Infrastructure - Table Indicators: Expansion and Impact of Green Infrastructure, and Climate Resilience in Water Management
- 4.3 Sustainable Travel - Table Indicators: Expansion and Quality of Cycle-Friendly Infrastructure, and Performance of Public Transport System
- 4.4 Health and Safety - Table Indicators: Air Quality (PM2.5, CO2 Emission), and Roads and Streets Safety (Cyclist)
- 4.5 Urban Comfort - Table Indicators: Life Satisfaction, and Employment Opportunity and Condition
5. Soft City Critical Evaluation for Copenhagen - 5.1 Evaluation Radar Chart for Copenhagen - 5.2 Summative Project Evaluation Matrix
A
BACKGROUND STUDIES & DEVELOPING THE S.C.C.E.F.
Fig.4 Cycle Bridge_Copenhagen
1.0 Introduction
In the ever-evolving urban development, achieving sustainability stands as a paramount goal for contemporary cities worldwide. Within this context, the concept of the "soft city," as articulated by David Sim (2019), summarizes his philosophy into nine criteria (Fig. 5) for assessing the quality of liveability and sustainability within a dense, resilient urban environment (Sim, 2019, P.212). Moreover, Sim argued that to address global urban challenges, designers must think smaller, focusing on human-scale solutions; think lower, people need accessible spaces where everyone can connect; think slower, slowing down our planning processes to include everyone's voices; think simpler, amidst complex technologies, simplicity is key. By embracing these principles, to create more sustainable environments, taking a softer approach overall (Think softer, n.d.).
This report embarks on soft city theory, with a specific focus on the medium-sized city of Copenhagen, that endeavours to delve into the critical evaluation of Copenhagen from the soft city. Through context research of soft city theory, Copenhagen city background and its city Roadmap from 2013-2025, followed by developing the critical evaluation framework for Copenhagen from soft city theory, based on existing frameworks study. Finally, the report culminates in a critical evaluation and scoring on the quality of Copenhagen as perceived through the selected drivers of the soft city. Through a synthesis of findings and observations, it will offer insights into the city's strengths, areas for improvement, and the potential for future development.
Fig.5 Soft City Nine Criteria (Sim, 2019)
2.0 Research Contexts
2.1 Theory Study - Soft City
2.1.1
What is the Soft City?
"Soft City" refers to an urban planning concept explored in David Sim's book "Soft City: Building Density for Everyday Life". In contrast to traditional rigid structural planning methods in the current densified world, it emphasizes "moving closer, getting together, and connecting people to one another and to all aspects of life around them" (Sim, 2019, P.3).
From a softer perspective, Sim delineates 13 "Soft features" (Fig. 6) that provide a deeper understanding of how the "soft" contributes to inclusive design. He emphasizes that 'soft' embodies "ease, comfort, and care in everyday life" (Sim, 2019, P.vii). Within the urban context, it entails creating human-centred designs that prioritize people's needs over aesthetics or mere functionality. This involves promoting inclusive design to accommodate diverse social identities, exploring sensory aspects, and spatial awareness, fostering community connections, and addressing urban challenges.
“A Society can be so stone-hard That it fuses into a block A people can be so bone-hard
That life goes into shock
And the heart is all in the shadow
And the heart has almost stopped Till some begin to build A city as soft as a body.”
Inger Christensen,1969
“Density x Diversity = Proximity”
David Sim, 2019
Fig.6 Undersrtanding of "Soft" in Urban Environment_Group Presentation Diagram
In addition, Sim set up three main sections, each dedicated to addressing a distinct challenge faced in the 21st century (Fig. 7).
1. Building Blocks: Living Locally in an Urbanizing World
“Embracing the challenge of urbanization by finding ways to accommodate both density and diversity in the same place, making it possible to live as locally as possible.”
2. Getting About and Getting On in a Congested World
“Both the physical and social challenges of people movement, starting right outside the front door.”
3. Living with Weather in a Time of Climate Change
“Better connecting people living indoors to what is outside, to increase awareness of the forces of nature and make people more comfortable with them.”
(Sim, 2019, P.4)
2.2 City Study - Copenhagen, Denmark
2.2.1 Copenhagen Background Study
Copenhagen (CPH) is situated in the eastern part of Denmark, spanning the islands of Zealand and Amager in northern Europe. It is connected to the Swedish city of Malmö by the Øresund Bridge. Serving as the capital region of Denmark, Copenhagen is occupied with a population of approximately 0.65 million (Statista, 2023).
Notably, during the city's development in the 20th century, the CPH Five Fingers Plan (Fig.9), conceived by Steen Eiler Rasmussen and Christian Erhardt Bredsdorff, was published in 1947. This urban development strategy was established for both city rebuilding and regeneration after the Second World War and allowed for "control unplanned suburban spread" (Danish Design Review, 2017). The implementation of this plan is crucial in fostering sustainable city growth and improving liveability, particularly through the development of infrastructure (public transport, active travel routes, and green infrastructure).
In recent years, Copenhagen has become one of the most liveable and bicycle-friendly cities globally. Consistently ranking highly on the Global Liveability Index, Copenhagen secured the second position from 2022 to 2023. Furthermore, it has been recognized as the top cycle-friendly city according to the Copenhagenize 2019 and Money. co.uk Cycle Cities Ranking 2023. Copenhagen's commitment to progressive policies, sustainability, and innovative urban development approaches, presents positive impacts on the urban environment and the quality of residents' life.
Facing climate change, Copenhagen has set the ambitious goal of becoming a carbon-neutral capital by 2025. To achieve the objective, the progress was outlined into three 4-year phases focusing on the three key concepts, carbon neutrality, fossil-free and greenhouse gases. "After each phase, an evaluation will be conducted, the results of which will determine what is done in the following period." (City of Copenhagen, 2016, P.7) Promoting an efficient and effective urban planning approach toward the goal.
Fig.8 Copenhagen Location
Fig.9 Copenhagen Five-finger Plan 1947
2.2.2 Copenhagen (CPH) 2025 Climate Plan
As both a capital and a city committed to green growth, Copenhagen intends to demonstrate the possibility of harmonizing growth, and development with an enhanced quality of life, and become the world's first carbon-neutral city by 2025. While Copenhagen's official objectives don't explicitly reference the concept of a soft city, it's evident from the city's existing roadmap that they are pursuing goals in line with the principles of a soft city. This makes Copenhagen an ideal case study for examining how soft city characteristics drive urban sustainability.
Copenhagen's current climate plan is structured into three phases: Roadmap 2013–2016, 2017–2020, and 2021–2025. The Copenhagen 2025 Climate Plan (CPH 2025) is comprehensive, delineating objectives and initiatives strategically distributed across four key domains: energy consumption, energy production, green mobility, and city administration initiatives (Fig.10). Each phase of the roadmap evaluates progress and adjusts initiatives accordingly.
2.2.3 CPH 2025 Climate Plan - Roadmap 2013-16
The city council adopted the CPH 2025 Climate Plan in September 2012. It states the city becoming carbon neutral by 2025 is about "finding solutions that are smarter, greener, healthier and more profitable: solutions that do not make it more expensive to be a Copenhagener yet promote green growth and enhance the quality of life for the individual citizen" (City of Copenhagen, 2012, P.5). The Plan pointed out the key objectives from the four-pillar and the opportunities from economy and investments.
Key Objectives:
- Copenhagen eyes energy efficiency upgrades for 70% of buildings, built before the first building regulations
- The city aims for electricity production to exceed its electricity demand, generated by wind, biomass, geothermal, and waste.
- Promoting bus and bike use remains a key focus for enhancing sustainable transportation.
- Copenhagen must elevate standards for energy optimization and carbon reduction initiatives.
- Increasing around 30,000 full-time jobs (City of Copenhagen, 2012)
Objectives
Fig.13,14,15 Copenahgen_Roadmaps
While the stated goal is for the city to achieve carbon neutrality, the outlined objectives direct and indirect reflecting the concept of a soft city. By prioritizing the reduction of CO2 emissions, these initiatives will demonstrably reduce the city's overall carbon footprint. This will benefit both the natural environment and the well-being of society.
Fig.10 Four Key Domains
Fig.11 Key Domains_Initiatives for Reducing Barriers
2.2.4 CPH 2025 Climate Plan - Roadmap 2017-20
An evaluation of the roadmap 2013-16 developing status was analysed within this roadmap. Most of the 66 initiatives outlined in the initial Roadmap have been implemented, leading to notable achievements. However, the reduction of CO2 emissions and progress was slower than the projection, followed by specific challenges, including "traffic congestion, converting vehicles to new types of fuel, reducing energy consumption in the city and achieving the targets for sorting plastic and organic waste"(City of Copenhagen, 2016, P. 9).
To address these challenges, the second roadmap determined that partnerships and flexibility from energy consumption and production are the key to further initiatives and the step toward Carbon neutrality. Moreover, in the green mobility area, people should choose to cycle rather than use a car which led Copenhagen to start as a great role model. Furthermore, the City of Copenhagen's commitment to reducing energy consumption and adopting alternative fuels for vehicles boosts its credibility. This credibility is crucial for engaging private stakeholders, especially Copenhagen, which aims to achieve carbon neutrality by considering the significant investments in buildings and transportation modes (City of Copenhagen, 2016).
Consequently, Copenhagen's emphasis on sustainable mobility practices and energy-efficient building design embodies the core principlesWalkability and Smaller Carbon Footprint from the soft city. This alignment with soft city ideals lays the groundwork for progressing the city's goal.
Additionally, achieving the goal, of Copenhagen necessitates a robust collaborative effort, fostering synergy between public and private sector stakeholders, alongside the active engagement of the local citizen. Also, it requires closely monitoring technological advancements and embracing new solutions to ensure that the most intelligent and effective approaches are consistently adopted.
The Key Conversion Mechanism
Analyses: Gathering data, examining experiences from other municipalities, and assessing needs before acting.
Tests and demonstrations: Identify the most suitable options from both extensively tested and further development and collaboration.
Implementation: Implementing the besttested solutions on a large scale after thorough evaluation.
(City of Copenhagen, 2016)
Fig.16 Roadmap_Key Conversion Mechanism
2.2.5 CPH 2025 Climate Plan - Roadmap 2021-25
The roadmap 2021-25 represents the concluding phase of the CPH 2025 Climate Plan, encompassing an evaluation of ongoing initiatives and targets. It also underscores the imperative for sustained action beyond the year 2025. It declared achieving carbon neutrality by 2025 will "make Copenhagen a city with cleaner air, less noise, energy-efficient dwellings and greener mobility" (City of Copenhagen, 2020, P.14). However, the green transition will continue and intends to achieve the new specific goal for 2030 and 2035 to sustain progress towards “climate neutrality and fossil-free city” (City of Copenhagen, 2020, P.59).
2.2.6 Action Plan for Green Mobility
Copenhagen's Action Plan for Green Mobility was a dedicated strategy integrated from the CPH 2025 Climate Plan for achieving goals and objectives related to enhanced sustainable mobility in Copenhagen's transport infrastructure.
“Green mobility is about making it easier, healthier, and more efficient to get around in Copenhagen and to ensure that choosing a green means of transport is an option for everybody. It is important to create the best possible conditions for the individual road users to get to their activities, for businesses to attract employees and for goods delivery in the city to work smoothly. All this in the most efficient and environmentally friendly way” (The City of Copenhagen, 2013).
Fig.17 Citation_Green Mobility
Fig.18 Cycle Life_Copenhagen
3.0 Soft City Critical Evaluation Framework for Copenhagen
The S.C.C.E.F. for CPH
3.1 Developing the S.C.C.E.F. for CPH
A framework serves as an effective tool for assessing the roadmaps proposed for a city, enabling a fair evaluation, and scoring of both successes and failures, as well as identifying areas in need of improvement. To create an effective soft city framework applicable to Copenhagen, this report will examine existing frameworks as benchmarks. Since the concept of a soft city is relatively new, the report will analyse existing sustainability frameworks that are relevant to the soft city concept and the Nine Criteria. By doing so, the report will formulate a critical evaluation framework for Copenhagen's efforts to become a Soft City and identify selected drivers with measurable indicators.
The proposed S.C.C.E.F. will be drawn from the following existing frameworks
- United Nations 17 Sustainable Development Goals
- Reference Framework for Sustainable Cities European Framework
- OECD Regional Wellbeing
Fig.19 Superkilen_Copenhagen
3.2 Existing Framework Studies
3.2.1
United Nations 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
In 2015, all United Nations member states adopted the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which serves as a collective framework for promoting peace and prosperity for both people and the planet, with a focus on both the current and future (United Nations,2015). It set 17 goals that encompass a broad spectrum of social, economic, and environmental considerations. Moreover, this framework also ensures that critical issues like climate change are aimed to be effectively addressed.
The 17 Global Goals
and Economic Growth
9 Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
10 Reduced Inequalities Goal 11 Sustainable cities and communities Goal 12 Responsible Consumption and Production Goal 13 Climate Action Goal 14 Life Below Water
Goal 15 Life on Land
Goal 16 Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
Goal 17 Partnership for the Goals (SDGs, n.d.)
Target 3.6: By 2020, halve the number of global deaths and injuries from road traffic accidents.
Target 3.8: Achieve universal health coverage, including financial risk protec�on, access to quality essen�al healthcare services and access to safe, effec�ve, quality, and affordable essen�al medicines and vaccines for all.
Target 3.9: By 2030, reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water and soil pollu�on and contamina�on.
9.1: Develop quality, reliable, sustainable, and resilient infrastructure, including regional and transborder infrastructure, to support economic development and human well-being, with a focus on affordable and equitable access for all.
Diversity of Outdoor Spaces
Human Scale
Target
(SDGs, n.d.)
(SDGs, n.d.)
Fig.20 The 17 Global Goals List
Fig.21 Ring_Soft City Relevant Goals
Relevant Goals and Targets to So� City
Target 11.2: By 2030, provide access to safe, affordable, accessible, and sustainable transport systems for all, improving road safety, notably by expanding public transport, with special a�en�on to the needs of those in vulnerable situa�ons, women, children, persons with disabili�es and older persons.
Target 11.3: By 2030, enhance inclusive and sustainable urbaniza�on and capacity for par�cipatory, integrated, and sustainable human se�lement planning and management in all countries.
Target 11.7: By 2030, provide universal access to safe, inclusive, and accessible, green, and public spaces, for women and children, older persons, and persons with disabili�es.
Target 11.a: Support posi�ve economic, social, and environmental links between urban, peri-urban, and rural areas by strengthening na�onal and regional development planning.
Target 12.8: By 2030, ensure that people everywhere have the relevant informa�on and awareness for sustainable development and lifestyles in harmony with nature
Relevant So� City Criteria
Target 13.1: Strengthen resilience and adap�ve capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters in all countries.
Target 15.9: By 2020, integrate ecosystem and biodiversity values into na�onal and local planning, development processes, poverty reduc�on strategies and accounts
Fig.22 Dimensions related to Soft City in the SDGs
(SDGs, n.d.)
(SDGs, n.d.)
(SDGs, n.d.)
3.2.2 Reference Framework for Sustainable Cities European Framework (RFSC.EU)
RFSC serves as a tool for essential stakeholders to create and execute plans for cities that are both appealing and sustainable, leading to its designation as a Reference Framework for Sustainable Cities promoted by the Council of European Municipalities and Regions (CEMR) (URBACT, n.d.). The framework's agenda intends to promote holistic urban growth for cities of all sizes throughout Europe and globally. RFSC. EU as a digital platform to aid in the realization of a unified, sustainable urban development vision. Specifically, the European framework for sustainable cities aims to facilitate the implementation of "the Leipzig Charter and a European common vision for sustainable cities" (RFSC.EU, n.d.).
Unlike the SDGs, the RFSC primarily concentrates on five dimensions: spatial, governance, social, economical, and environmental. Each dimension is associated with six key objectives. Notably, the dimensions from spatial, social and environmental are directly relevant to Soft City Criteria (Fig.24). The tool offers an analysis of SDG priorities and gaps. It does so by evaluating the significance of these priorities within a local setting, examining the extent to which local initiatives support the various SDGs, and gauging their anticipated effect on a scale from 1 (poor) to 4 (significant) (URBACT, n.d.). Additionally, the outcome of this selfassessment presents a collective perspective on the alignment (or lack thereof) between current priorities and ongoing actions.
Two dimensions for other sustainability themes
- Ensure Integrated Territorial Strategy
- Foster Sustanable Administration Financial City Management
- Implement a Process for Assessment and Continuous Improvement
- Increase Citzen Participation
- Strengthen Governace in Partnership
- Facilitate Capacity Building and Networking (EFSC.EU, n.d.)
- Stimulate Green Growth and Circular Economy
- Promote Innovation and Smart Cities
- Ensure Connectivity
- Develop Employment and a Resilient Local Economy
- Encourage Sustainable Production and Consumption
- Foster Cooperation and Innovative Partnerships (RFSC.EU, n.d.)
Fig.23 RFSC EU_Goverance and Economical Dimensions and objectives
3 Relevant Dimensions
- Develop Sustainable Urban Planning and Land Use
- Ensure Spa�al Equity
- Encourage Territorial Resilience
- Ensure Social Inclusion
- Ensure Social and Intergenera�onal Equity
- Build Up a Supply of Housing for Everyone
- Mi�gate Climate Change
- Protect, Restore and Enhance Biodiversity and Ecosystems
- Reduce Pollu�on
Objec�ves
Relevant So� City Criteria
- Preserve and Enhance Architectural, Cultural, and Urban Heritage
- Promote High Quality and Func�onal of Public Spaces and Living Environment
- Develop Alterna�ve and Sustainable Mobility
(RFSC.EU, n.d.)
- Protect and Promote Health and Well-being
- Improve Inclusive Educa�on and Training
- Promote Culture and Leisure Opportuni�es
(RFSC.EU, n.d.)
- Adapt to Climate Change
- Manage Natural Materials, Resources Sustainability and Prevent Waste
- Protect, Preserve and Manage Water Resources
(RFSC.EU, n.d.)
3.2.3 OECD Regional Well being (OECD RW.)
OECD developed this framework to examine the well-being and quality of life. Their research shows that "understanding personal well-being is crucial to gearing up public policies towards better societies. As many of the policies that bear most directly on people’s lives are local or regional, more fine-grained measures of well-being will help policymakers to enhance the design and targeting of policies" (OECD, 2018). Furthermore, the OECD claim that citizen empowerment through these participatory processes can lead to demands for place-based policy actions that are responsive to their specific needs and expectations. This, in turn, has the potential to rebuild public trust in governance.
The Framework Measures
"It measures well-being where people experience it. It focuses both on individuals and on placebased characteristics, as the interaction between the two shapes people’s overall well-being.
It concentrates on well-being outcomes that provide direct information on people’s lives rather than on inputs or outputs.
It is multi-dimensional and includes both material and non-material dimensions.
It assesses well-being outcomes not only through averages but also by how they are distributed across regions and groups of people.
It is influenced by citizenship, governance and institutions.
It takes account of complementarities and tradeoffs among the different well-being dimensions.
It looks at the dynamics of well-being over time, at its sustainability and at the resilience of different regions." (OECD, 2018)
Similar to the RFSC, this framework encompasses eleven dimensions spanning three principal areas that quality of life, and subjective well-being areas are the relevant domains to the Soft City Criteria (Fig. 28). It incorporates a rating system ranging from 1 to 10, offering precise results to one decimal place (Fig. 27).
Three Principal Areas:
Material Conditions
Income, Jobs and Housing
Quality of Life
Health, Education, Environment, Safety, Civic engagement and Accessibility of services
Subjective Well-being
Community and Life Satisfaction (OECD, 2018)
Fig.27 Copenahgen OECD RW. Scores 2022
Fig.25 OECD RW. Framwork Measures
Fig.26 OECD RW. Three Principal Areas
2 Relevant Dimensions Quality
- Health
- Educa�on
- Environment
Topics
Indicators Relevant So� City Criteria
- Safety
- Civic Engagement
- Accessibility of Services
- Life expectancy at birth (years)
- Age adjusted mortality rate (per 1 000 people)
- Share of labour force with at least secondary educa�on (%)
- Es�mated average exposure to air pollu�on in PM2.5 (μg/m³), based on satellite imagery data
- Homicide rate (per 100 000 people)
- Voter turnout (%)
- Share of households with broadband access (%)
- Internet download speed: devia�on from OECD average (%)
(OECD, 2018)
- Community
- Life Sa�sfac�on
- Percentage of people who have friends or rela�ves to rely on in case of need
- Average self-evalua�on of life sa�sfac�on on a scale from 0 to 10
(OECD, 2018)
BAPPLICATION OF THE S.C.C.E.F & CONCLUSION
CRITICAL EVALUATION OF SOFT CITY APPLIED TO COPENHAGEN (SCORING, SUMMATIVE MATRIX)
Fig.29 Collage_Reflection of Key Drivers
4.0 Author’s Proposed S.C.C.E.F. for CPH
To assess the progress of the soft city concept in Copenhagen, a Proposed Critical Evaluation Framework (CEF) has been established to outline the criteria for evaluating city quality. This framework facilitates a comprehensive analysis of the city's quality, employing selected drivers and indicators, thus supporting conclusions about the potential for future development. Moreover, the CEF, tailored specifically for this study, was crafted by incorporating dimensions, directly and indirectly, relevant to the soft city concept from existing sustainability frameworks (E.F.) (Figure. 31). This was also complemented by a detailed examination of Copenhagen's roadmaps and action plan from earlier sections, leading to a more place-specific framework. This approach emphasizes the importance of customizing solutions to meet the unique characteristics and needs of the specific location.
Theme
Assessing the progress of Copenhagen becoming a soft city
Drivers
These have been developed by the soft city nine criteria and key relevant dimensions through the existing sustainability framework study (SDGs, RFSC.EU and OECD R.W.) combined with the understanding of the city's roadmaps. Including, Carbon Neutrality, Sustainable Travel, Green and Blue Infrastructure, Health and Safety and Urban Comfort.
Indicators
Integrated relevant indicators from the existing framework study, and established specific, developed/redefined indicators focusing on proposed drivers.
Identified Initiatives
Refers to specific projects or actions that have been identified and selected for implementation to achieve designated goals or address particular challenges. Evidence will be drawn from both qualitative and quantitative sources to demonstrate Copenhagen's city strengths in terms of its planning, design, and policy/decision-making efforts that have been undertaken to fulfil the identified drivers.
Scoring system
The scoring methodology was developed from RFSC.EU and OECD R.W. scoring systems, provide a scoring range from 0-4 with a maximum of one decimal place.
EVALUATION’S KEY DRIVERS CARBON
RELEVANT DIMENSIONS FROM E.F. So� City Nine Criteria
1. Diversity of Built Form
2. Diversity of Outdoor Spaces
3. Flexibility
4. Human Scale
5. Walkability
6. Sense of Control and Iden�ty
7. A Pleasant Microclimate
8. Smaller Carbon Footprint
9. Greater Biodiversity
United Na�ons 17 Sustainable Development Goals
Goal 3
Goal 9
Goal 11
Goal 12
Goal 13
Goal 15
Reference Framework for Sustainable Ci�es European Framework
Spa�al Dimension
Social Dimension
Environmental Dimension
OECD Regional Well-being
Health
Educa�on
Environment
Safety
Civic Engagement
Accessibility of Services
Community Life Sa�sfac�on
Fig.30 Framework Guidance
CARBON NEUTRALITY
GREEN AND BLUE INFRASTRUCTURE
SUSTAINABLE TRAVEL HEALTH AND SAFETY URBAN COMFORT
Fig.31 Decision Matrix
4.1
Carbon Neutrality
Indicator 1
Increase in Energy Efficiency of Retrofi�ed Buildings
- Copenhagen is targe�ng energy efficiency improvements in 70% of buildings constructed before the ini�al building codes (City of Copenhagen, 2012).
- In Copenhagen, the social housing strategy is focused on a goal to cut heat usage by 30%/m2 by 2025, which will be met through energy retrofit�ng and enhancing the efficiency of hea�ng systems in buildings (City of Copenhagen, 2016).
- “Energy consump�on in the city’s buildings is reduced by 40%” by 2025 (City of Copenhagen, 2020).
- By 2025, Copenhagen plans for most of its electricity and hea�ng produc�on to come from wind, biomass, geothermal energy, and waste. The objec�ve is to achieve carbon-neutral district hea�ng for the residents of Copenhagen by 2025. Moreover, the city will set up renewable energy-based electricity genera�on that exceeds the city's total electricity consump�on (City of Copenhagen, 2012).
3
Indicator 2
Reduc�on in Dependence on Fossil Fuels
- By the end of 2019, Copenhagen had installed a photovoltaic capacity of 15 MW, primarily on the building's roo�ops. The goal is for photovoltaic energy to account for 1% of the city's electricity consump�on (approximately 24,000 MWh) by 2025 (City of Copenhagen, 2020).
- By 2025, Copenhagen aims to achieve a carbon-neutral hea�ng supply, predominantly relying on biomass, waste, and geothermal energy (City of Copenhagen, 2012).
S.C.C.E.F. : Author’s So� City Cri�cal Evalua�on Framework for Copenhagen 1: Complete fail to meet SCCEF. 2: Only meet some parts of SCCEF. with scope of improvement 3:Meet most part of SCCEF. with few aspects of improvement 4: Successfuly meet all the SCCEF.
4
Fig.32 Table_Carbon Neutrality
4.2
1
and Impact of
- The Copenhagen Municipality has set an objec�ve to plant 100,000 new trees by 2025 (State of Green, 2015).
- "HOFOR (Greater Copenhagen U�lity) and the Danish Nature Agency will also plant approx. 80 hectares of forest p.a. in water catchment areas" (City of Copenhagen, 2016) and safeguarding of drinking-water wells (City of Copenhagen, 2020).
- “The City of Copenhagen’s woodlands in and outside Copenhagen to absorb 3,000 tonnes of CO2 in 2025, while increasing biodiversity and crea�ng a number of recrea�onal woodlands near Copenhagen at the same �me” (City of Copenhagen, 2020).
2
- In 2012, the Copenhagen City Council approved a Cloudburst Management Plan, se�ng the stage for the extensive deployment of 300 Cloudburst projects over the next two decades (by 2035) which include parks, streets, and squares. These projects, which blend green surfaces with sewer-based strategies, aim to capture and divert water, safeguarding the city against a centennial rainfall event. Addi�onally, these ini�a�ves are seen as economically advantageous, projec�ng an es�mated total benefit of $767 million (C40 Ci�es, 2015). One of the notable cloudburst projects is Taasinge Square, Climate Neighbourhood, Copenhagen.
3
S.C.C.E.F. : Author’s So� City Cri�cal Evalua�on Framework for Copenhagen 1: Complete fail to meet SCCEF. 2: Only meet some parts of SCCEF. with scope of improvement 3:Meet most part of SCCEF. with few aspects of improvement 4: Successfuly meet all the SCCEF.
3
Fig.33 Table_Green and Blue Infrastructure
4.3 Sustainable Travel Indicator 1 Expansion and Quality of Cycle-Friendly Infrastructure
- Copenhagen aim to finish the 680 km cycle superhighway by 2030 (Cycle Superhighway, 2019).
- Between 2017 and 2020, Copenhagen plans to enhance its bicycle network capacity through expansions of bicycle tracks, improvements to cycle corridors, and upgrades to regional Supercycle Highways to support a growing number of cyclists. Addi�onal bicycle parking spaces will be created to accommodate the increased usage. Moreover, special emphasis will be placed on safety, including cycle routes to schools (City of Copenhagen, 2016).
- According to Money.co.uk Cycle Ci�es Ranking 2023, Copenhagen was the top cycle-friendly city in Europe (OOLTER, n.d.).
- “The share of Copenhageners who find that bicycle culture affects city life posi�vely will cons�tute 70% by 2015 and 75% by 2020” (The City of Copenhagen, 2013).
- By 2025, 20% more passengers in Copenhagen will use public transport compared to 2009 (City of Copenhagen, 2020).
4
Table_Sustainable Travel
Indicator 2 Performance of Public Transport System
- By the end of 2019, 15% of the buses in opera�on had been transi�oned to electric power. Then, public transport in Copenhagen will be CO2-neutral by 2025 (City of Copenhagen, 2020).
- By 2025, at least 25% of all trips within, to, and from the City of Copenhagen are required to be made using climate-friendly public transport (City of Copenhagen, 2020).
- Public transport usage is targeted to increase by 2% by 2015 and by 20% by 2025, compared to 2011 (The City of Copenhagen, 2013).
S.C.C.E.F. : Author’s So� City Cri�cal Evalua�on Framework for Copenhagen 1: Complete fail to meet SCCEF. 2: Only meet some parts of SCCEF. with scope of improvement 3:Meet most part of SCCEF. with few aspects of improvement 4: Successfuly meet all the SCCEF.
3
Fig.34
4.4 Health & Safety
Indicator 1 Air Quality (PM2.5, CO2 emission)
- According to the OECD Regional Wellbeing Report from 2020, the annual air quality levels, measured in PM2.5, stand at 9.2 µg/m³. This exceeds the WHO's recommended air quality guideline of 5 µg/m³. It posi�ons Denmark as 4th out of 5 regions in terms of air quality (OECD Regional Well-being, 2020) (World Health Organiza�on, 2021).
- In Copenhagen, as of 2021, there has been a 72.6% reduc�on in CO2 emissions compared to the baseline year of 2005, as outlined in the Climate Plan. This annual CO2 accoun�ng encompasses various categories, including emissions from traffic, electricity, and district hea�ng consump�on (Urban Development CPH, n.d.).
- The Copenhagen Bicycle Strategy for 2011-2025 includes a goal to decrease the count of cyclists who are fatally or seriously injured by 70% within the period from 2005 to 2025 (Bicycle Account, 2017).
Indicator 2 Roads and Streets Safety (Cyclists)
- 89% of cyclists in Copenhagen report that they have not sustained injuries in traffic accidents over the past two years (Bicycle Account, 2022).
S.C.C.E.F. : Author’s So� City Cri�cal Evalua�on Framework for Copenhagen 1: Complete fail to meet SCCEF. 2: Only meet some parts of SCCEF. with scope of improvement 3:Meet most part of SCCEF. with few aspects of improvement 4: Successfuly meet all the SCCEF.
2
Fig.35 Table_Health and Safety
4.5 Urban Comfort Indicator 1 Life Sa�sfac�on
- According to the OECD Regional Well-being data, Copenhagen achieved an average life sa�sfac�on score of 7.6 out of 10 for the period 2016-2020. Compared across all OECD regions (447 in total), the region ranks in the top 6% for life sa�sfac�on (OECD Regional Wellbeing, 2022). (OECD R.W. Data examined the average self-evalua�on of life sa�sfac�on on a scale from 0 to 10)
2
- Denmark has consistently been at the forefront of the World Happiness Report since its incep�on in 2012, clinching the top spot in 2012, 2013, and 2016, and securing the second posi�on in 2019 and again in 2020. Notably, in the most recent report, both Aarhus and Copenhagen were ranked among the top 5 happiest ci�es globally (Visit Demark, 2021). Indicator 2 Employment Opportunity and Condi�on
- The CPH 2025 Climate Plan brought posi�ve economic effects which resulted in approximately 30.000 full-�me equivalents (City of Copenhagen, 2012).
- Copenhagen boasts an employment rate of 76.5% and an unemployment rate of 5.9%. When compared across all OECD regions (447 in total), the region ranks in the top 24% for employment (OECD Regional Wellbeing, 2022).
- “Copenhagen encourages its employees’ good climate behaviour and teaches its opera�ng staff in procurement, transporta�on and energy-efficient opera�on and consump�on” (City of Copenhagen, 2012).
S.C.C.E.F. : Author’s So� City Cri�cal Evalua�on Framework for Copenhagen 1: Complete fail to meet SCCEF. 2: Only meet some parts of SCCEF. with scope of improvement 3:Meet most part of SCCEF. with few aspects of improvement 4: Successfuly meet all the SCCEF.
3
Fig.36 Table_Urban Comfort
5.0 Soft City Critical Evaluation for Copenhagen
5.1 Evaluation Radar Chart for Copenhagen
Fig.37 Evaluation Radar Chart
5.2 Summative Project Evaluation Matrix
Green and Blue Infrastructure
- Ini�a�ves to achieve more energy efficiency in retrofi�ed buildings
-Ini�a�ves are focused on u�lizing electricity generated from wind, solar, biomass, geothermal energy, and waste, rather than relying on fossil fuels. This approach is one of the fundamental principles aimed at achieving carbon neutrality by 2025.
- Ini�a�ves to achieve carbon-neutral hea�ng supply in 2025.
- Could engage in research and development of more energy-efficient techniques for both retrofi�ng exis�ng buildings and construc�ng new buildings.
- Implementa�on of electricity genera�on through �dal energy and organic biogas.
- Ini�a�ves are promo�ng the quan�ty and quality of green infrastructure in Copenhagen, which also improves biodiversity and climate resilience (Absorbing CO2) aspects.
- The city approved the Cloudburst Management Plan in 2012, which tries to u�lise the Cloudburst projects to mi�gate the risks of storms and floods.
- Con�nue efforts to expand woodland areas within and surrounding the city, focusing on enhancing the quality and quan�ty of green infrastructure. This includes collabora�on with the city network to increase street trees and develop urban green pockets. Con�nue the advancement of Cloudburst Projects, experimen�ng and adap�ng with new technologies. Addi�onally, regular maintenance of these projects must be promptly addressed to mi�gate risks such as blocked pipes, ensuring they remain func�onal and effec�ve.
Sustainable Travel
- Copenhagen has successfully established itself as a bicycle-friendly city, boas�ng well-developed cycling infrastructure that encourages ac�ve and safe travel pa�erns.
- Public transport, especially buses, will aim to transi�on to electric power as part of the principles for achieving carbon neutrality by 2025.
- The city could promote increased bicycle use among its residents to further decrease the number of vehicles on the roads and reduce traffic conges�on. This strategy aligns with tackling the challenge of traffic conges�on outlined in the city's roadmap, offering a prac�cal solu�on to alleviate urban mobility issues.
- Con�nue progressing with the ini�a�ve to replace tradi�onal buses with electric-powered alterna�ves.
S.C.C.E.F. : Author’s So� City Cri�cal Evalua�on Framework for Copenhagen 0<X<1.5: Complete fail to meet SCCEF. 1.5<X<2.5: Only meet some parts of SCCEF. with scope of improvement 2.5<X<3.5:Meet most part of SCCEF. with few aspects of improvement 3.5<X<4: Successfuly meet all the SCCEF.
Fig.38 Summative Project Evaluation Matrix_Carbon Neutrality, Green and Blue Infrastructure and Sustainable Travel
- In line with the targets and objec�ves outlined in the CPH 2025 climate plan, there has been a significant reduc�on in CO2 emissions, demonstra�ng Copenhagen's readiness to achieve its ambi�on of carbon neutrality by 2025.
- Evidence suggests that the roads and streets in the area are rela�vely safe for cyclists.
- While Copenhagen has made claims of achieving carbon neutrality, it is expected that the city will benefit from "cleaner air, less noise..." (City of Copenhagen, 2020). However, levels of par�culate ma�er 2.5 (PM2.5) currently exceed World Health Organiza�on guidelines, indica�ng that the city must also address air quality issues concurrently, rather than wai�ng un�l a�er achieving carbon neutrality.
- The city must enhance air quality through regular measures, which could also yield benefits for public lung health.
- The city must strive to minimize incidents of serious cyclist casual�es by implementing appropriate safety measures and ac�ons.
Urban Comfort
-The city has garnered high ra�ngs in life sa�sfac�on and feelings of happiness among its local residents.
- The implementa�on of the CPH 2025 Climate Plan has generated numerous job opportuni�es, leading to a rela�vely high employment rate recorded in 2022.
- The city could develop more diverse people-centred outdoor areas to improve public sa�sfac�on
- Focusing on increasing and securing jobs in the green and research sectors to support the city's development into fossil fossil-free city beyond 2025.
S.C.C.E.F. : Author’s So� City Cri�cal Evalua�on Framework for Copenhagen 0<X<1.5: Complete fail to meet SCCEF. 1.5<X<2.5: Only meet some parts of SCCEF. with scope of improvement 2.5<X<3.5:Meet most part of SCCEF. with few aspects of improvement 3.5<X<4: Successfuly meet all the SCCEF.
Fig.39 Summative Project Evaluation Matrix_Health and Safety, and Urban Comfort
6.0 Conclusion
The evaluation of Copenhagen, guided by the Soft City Critical Evaluation Framework, illustrates the city's determined path to becoming carbonneutral by 2025. This analysis reveals how closely Copenhagen's efforts align with the ideals of a Soft City, showing its commitment to enhancing livability and sustainability via urban development initiatives. Focusing on city roadmaps, Copenhagen has outlined clear strategies for transitioning to renewable energy sources and promoting green mobility, advancing city administration initiatives in sustainable urban development. Undoubtedly, Copenhagen is a leading example of the global shift towards carbon neutrality.
By analysing selected indicators related to carbon neutrality, the city is advancing in climate resilience and improving the livability of its residents. This progress is demonstrated by high scores in both the increased energy efficiency of retrofitted buildings and a decrease in reliance on fossil fuels. This beneficial dual impact allows the city to capitalize on its dedication to sustainability, resilience, and livability, particularly from a smaller carbon footprint area.
Additionally, the city's commitment to sustainable travel also supports its carbon neutrality goals. Copenhagen boasts a well-developed bicycle infrastructure and has actively encouraged more people to cycle, aiming to mitigate traffic congestion caused by a high number of vehicles. Concurrently, transitioning traditional buses to electric-powered alternatives also enhances the city's walkability and flexibility, aligning with the principles of a soft city.
Similarly, by implementing initiatives that focus on green and blue infrastructure, the city is creating more pleasant microclimates and contributing to increasing biodiversity. This not only enhances the well-being of its residents but is also crucial in mitigating climate-related disasters, such as flooding.
However, Copenhagen's health and safety metrics lag behind, despite its ambitious carbon neutrality goals and advancements in green and blue infrastructure. A broader development strategy is necessary for a truly effective, pleasant microclimate, especially in improving air quality simultaneously with other goals. Given the city's emphasis on cycling, a deeper focus on reducing cycling-related accidents is critical. Enhancing safety measures will not only protect cyclists but also boost the city's walkability, aligning with its soft city aspirations.
The urban comfort dimension in Copenhagen attains only a moderate rating, suggesting a lack of focus in this area. The current data fails to provide a comprehensive picture needed for enhancing urban comfort. For better public satisfaction, the city should aim to create diverse people-centred outdoor areas that reflect the community's desires. Engaging with residents to gain insights into their views on city life and its evolution is crucial. Moreover, sustaining a high employment rate, especially in research and green industries, is vital for the city's progress. This approach not only aligns with Copenhagen's goals but also lays a strong groundwork for its future growth beyond its 2025 carbon neutrality target.
In summary, Copenhagen's initiatives, as outlined in its roadmaps, exemplify the soft city concept, showcasing its sustainability, livability, and resilience. Through further quantitative and qualitative analysis, Copenhagen has the potential to further develop itself into a soft city (Soft City Score 72.5%/100%), particularly evident in Walkability, Pleasant Microclimates, Smaller Carbon Footprint, and Greater Biodiversity. The city's strategy for climate change adaptation, along with its focus on improving livability and resilience, is paving the way for future developments that foster a positive interaction between nature and urban environments. This approach not only addresses the immediate challenges of urban living but also sets a precedent for future urban development strategies worldwide.
Fig.40 Diverse Outdoor Space_Copenhagen
7.0 References
7.1 Bibliography
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Fig.6 Understanding of "Soft" in Urban Environment_Group Presentation Diagram. (2024). Presentation Image. LI, Y. et al. Accessed: 07/03/2024. Soft City, Sustainability in Contemporary Cities Group 4.
Fig.7 Soft City. (2019). Book Image. Sim, David. Accessed: 07/03/2024. Soft City: Building Density for Everyday Life. London: ISLAND PRESS.
Fig.9: Copenhagen Five-finger Plan 1947 (n.d.). Image. Research Gate. Accessed: 25/03/2024. <https:// www.researchgate.net/profile/Rob-Roggema/ publication/344728129/figure/fig14/AS:948008682258440 @1603034291322/Five-Finger-Plan-for-Copenhagen-1947Source-Copenhagen-Regional-Planning-Offices.ppm>
Fig.10: Four Key Domains. (2012). Report Image. The City of Copenhagen. Accessed: 25/03/2024. CPH 2025 Climate Plan. The City of Copenhagen. < https://kk.sites.itera.dk/ apps/kk_pub2/index.asp?mode=detalje&id=983>
Fig.11: Domains_Initiatives for Reducing Barriers. (2012). Report Image. The City of Copenhagen. Accessed: 25/03/2024. CPH 2025 Climate Plan. The City of Copenhagen. < https://kk.sites.itera.dk/apps/kk_pub2/ index.asp?mode=detalje&id=983>
Fig.13: Copenhagen_Roadmaps. (2012). Report Image. The City of Copenhagen. Accessed: 25/03/2024. CPH 2025 Climate Plan. The City of Copenhagen. < https://kk.sites. itera.dk/apps/kk_pub2/index.asp?mode=detalje&id=983>
Fig.14: Copenhagen_Roadmaps. (2016). Report Image. City of Copenhagen. Accessed: 25/03/2024. CPH 2025 Climate Plan Roadmap 2017-2020. City of Copenhagen. < https://kk.sites.itera.dk/apps/kk_pub2/index. asp?mode=detalje&id=1586>
Fig.15: Copenhagen_Roadmaps. (2020). Report Image. City of Copenhagen. Accessed: 25/03/2024. CPH 2025 Climate Plan Roadmap 2021-2025. City of Copenhagen. < https://kk.sites.itera.dk/apps/kk_pub2/index. asp?mode=detalje&id=2062>
Fig.17: Citation_Green Mobility. (2013). Citation. The City of Copenhagen. Accessed: 25/03/2024. Action Plan for Green Mobility Short Version. The City of Copenhagen. < https://kk.sites.itera.dk/apps/kk_pub2/index. asp?mode=detalje&id=1123>
