Switzerland has committed to parsimonious land use (haushälterische Bodennutzung) and sustainability—principles that should guide spatial planning. And yet, when it comes to actually implementing them, hesitation takes over. Resistance. Fear of change.
More housing is needed, but new development is often opposed. Affordability is a priority, yet existing structures that exclude remain untouched. Vibrant, walkable communities are desired, yet policies continue to make them impossible.
Moving beyond contradictions is essential. A shared vision must emerge—one that turns the Spatial Planning Act (revised 10 years ago!) into reality. 🏡🚶♂️
The real utopia? Giving up before even truly starting. Regulating land in ways that block solutions instead of enabling them.
Avoiding nostalgia means embracing the possibilities of 10-Minuten-Nachbarschaften—places where those who want to live in such environments can live, work, and thrive without displacement. A Swiss-made solution for a growing Switzerland.
This was the focus of a recent podcast discussion—how 10-Minute-Neighborhoods can become a real, tangible future for suitable locations. 🎙️ Listen here: Nexus Podcast "Episode S1E3: Recording Utopias with Francesco Giudici and Sibylle Wälty - nexus podcast | Podcast on Spotify.
See three examples of 10-Minuten-Nachbarschaften in Switzerland—the demand for housing in these locations is skyrocketing. 👇 Yet, many more 500-meter-radius areas hold the potential for transformation. To unlock this potential, current spatial planning must be revised—namely cantonal spatial plans, municipal land use plans, and building regulations.
This isn’t just about housing—it’s about climate, economy, and quality of life. As the IPCC highlights, compact urban form supports sustainability by integrating spatial planning with climate goals. It reduces emissions, boosts productivity through proximity, and strengthens local economies.
Switzerland has the tools to build sustainable, thriving neighborhoods. The question is: Will we use them—or let outdated regulations hold us back?
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