Freiburg, the sustainable, exciting Black Forest metropolis
Freiburg leads the way in Germany when it comes to sustainability and is a real treat not just for the greens!
Climate change is already irreversible and low carbon footprint travel is the future. Holidaying on your own continent is a good start, and you can even ease your conscience by heading to one of the most sustainable cities in Germany!
Pioneering in the sustainable use of resources
Freiburg is taking solar technology, transport policy, helping the environment and climate protection one step further. The development of plans to combine quality of life with sustainability, ecology and economy is paving the way towards a healthy future. The people of Freiburg are also singing from the same hymn sheet and are committed to green projects within the city, such as the Vauban community garden. For this ‘Green City’, sustainability is not just the subject of ambitious environment and climate protection strategies, it is more the driving force behind positive developments in the economy, education and science.
Freiburg was the first city to renovate a tower block based on the passive house concept and to implement a responsible recycling system. A plan with 60 sustainability targets and a solar settlement that generates more energy than the inhabitants need are further evidence of the city’s responsible attitude towards the environment. This advanced way of thinking is also apparent in Freiburg’s biggest solar farm on the Eichelbuck energy mountain and the photovoltaic system on the town hall.
Climate-friendly day and night
Visitors to the city can also experience sustainability close up by staying at the Green City Hotel Vauban. This hotel, which was also built using passive house components, is the very epitome of innovation and sustainability. It uses regional products, is gentle on resources and integrates people with disabilities into everyday life. The hotel is operated by a non-profit organisation as an integration company and combines excellent comfort levels with environmental awareness.
The people of Freiburg love their bikes as an environmentally friendly means of transport. And visitors who like to get on the saddle can take a leaf out of their book with the Frelo bike hire system. The Freiburger Verkehrs AG hire system has various stations around the city from which you can hire up to four bicycles at a time. The train and excellent public transport options are also perfect for exploring.
Enjoying sustainability in the Green City
No other city this size has more woods and vineyards and such a diverse landscape. A walk or a bike ride through the greenery is the perfect way to forget the stress of everyday life.
Regionality is also a key element of sustainability. The region provides inspiration for a wide range of local produce that can be purchased at the Münstermarkt. From spreads, mustards and chutneys from Hakuna Matata, through local ice-cream parlours serving home-made treats to Freiburg craft beer, it is simply perfect for green connoisseurs. Freiburg is also home to Venoi, a completely vegan supermarket. The sunny climate and excellent soils also make Freiburg ideal for wine-growing. Wine is enjoyed sustainably in the region and there are lots of local winemakers.
The upper part of the old town is also dotted with individual boutiques, beautifully styled shops and traditional craft companies. Whether you are looking for an evening dress, accessories, honey or toys, Freiburg is perfect for sustainable shopping.
With some 230,000 inhabitants, Freiburg offers really relaxed city life and a natural balance for ambitious people. The city has all the variety you could ever want: outdoor activities, a rich cultural heritage and lots of popular pubs and restaurants. Freiburg is all about freedom and individuality, whether on the Schlossberg, at the weekly market or on a stroll around the city.
For more information on Freiburg, please visit https://visit.freiburg.de/en or contact Christina Zimmer.
How to get to Freiburg
Freiburg is the capital of the Black Forest in the south of Germany. Freiburg is 7.5 hours from London via Paris on the Eurostar, TGV and ICE.