Our project coordinator, Smart Innovation Norway, was thrilled to present its work on “Citizen engagement and co-creation in a net-zero built environment transition: challenges, best practices from EU-funded projects and future directions” at the Net-Zero Future 2024.
This event is the 1st International Conference on Net-Zero Built Environment: Innovations in Materials, Structures, and Management Practices, and will take place in June 19-21, 2024 in Oslo, Norway.
Among the notable participants was Smart Innovation Norway (SIN), the project coordinator of the SENDER project, an EU-funded initiative focused on energy transition through citizen engagement and co-creation. Representing SIN, Christian W. Kunze, Alemu M. Belay, Ahmed S. Hedar, and A. Dandwate delivered an insightful presentation that highlighted the integration of community involvement in the net-zero transition.
SENDER Project’s Role: Citizen Engagement and Co-Creation
During the conference, Smart Innovation Norway participated in Session P05: Crafting Net-Zero Urban Evolution with Positive Energy Districts on June 20, 2024. Under the chairmanship of Savis Gohar, the team from SIN presented on the theme: Citizen Engagement and Co-Creation in a Net-Zero Built Environment Transition: Challenges and Best Practices. The session emphasized the crucial role of communities and stakeholders in the success of net-zero transitions, sharing insights into how engaging citizens and promoting co-creation can create more sustainable and resilient urban spaces.
The SENDER project, which focuses on creating smart energy solutions with the help of consumers, proved highly relevant to the discussion. By highlighting the importance of societal ecosystems, community engagement, and collaboration, SENDER’s findings are poised to contribute significantly to the Net-Zero Future project’s international alliance. The project’s community-driven approach aligns perfectly with the broader goals of advancing positive energy districts and sustainable urban development, making it a pivotal contributor to shaping future net-zero cities.
Looking Ahead: Impact and Global Reach
The conference provided a platform for Smart Innovation Norway and the SENDER project to extend their impact beyond Europe, connecting with global thought leaders and contributing to a larger conversation on sustainable city building and energy transitions. The synergies between the SENDER and Net-Zero Future projects underscore the importance of interdisciplinary and international collaboration in achieving carbon neutrality and transforming urban environments.
Smart Innovation Norway’s participation in the Net-Zero Future 2024 Conference marks a significant step towards realizing the vision of sustainable, community-driven energy solutions. By continuing to focus on citizen engagement and co-creation, SIN is set to play a vital role in shaping the future of net-zero built environments.