Falun, Börlange

This Swedish Urban Pilot Project aimed to establish the principle of environmental sustainability as a driving force for change and regeneration in medium-sized towns. The neighboring towns of Borlänge and Falun are located between Sweden’s populated south and the sparsely populated northern interior. This area has suffered the effects of industrial decline.
The Urban Pilot Project provided a platform for cooperation
between the two neighboring towns, to work towards
sustainability at a local level. The aim was to stimulate sustainable
development through research linked to the support of new environmental practice. The project aimed to persuade existing companies to incorporate environmental technology into their working practice, as well as support new business activity in areas with growth potential in the fields of ecology, the environment and energy. By integrating a range of measures, the project provided a focal point where synergies and interrelated activities could be developed.
The medium-term aim of the project was for sustainability to become a standard concept in urban regeneration and local economic development, as well as in the minds of everyday citizens.
The project’s focal point was the ‘Dalarna Natural Resource Centre’ (NRC), located in the Vassbo area, halfway between Falun and Borlänge. The NRC has four main functions. It coordinates the cities’ environmental activities and hosts three specific institutions: a ‘European Urban Research Park’, an ‘Economic and Technology Centre’ and a ‘Centre for Environmental Information’. The Information Centre supports the region’s SMEs in improving their environmental practice and also stimulates the transfer and use of environmental technology within the private sector and nurtures the establishment and growth of new SMEs in the environmental sector, thus supporting the economic restructuring of the area.

cooperation
sustainable economy
quality of life
awareness raising

to persuade existing companies to incorporate environmental technology into their working practice, as well as support new business activity in areas with growth potential in the fields of ecology, the environment and energy
The medium-term aim of the project was for sustainability to become a standard concept in urban regeneration and local economic development, as well as in the minds of everyday citizens

Local authorities

citizens
SMEs

European Commission

Promoting Sustainable Urban Development in Europe
Achievements and Opportunities