Augustenborg Eco-neighbourhood in Malmö (Sweden)

Circular and resilient water management in urban areas

August 2025

ICLEI-Local Governments for Sustainability

Augustenborg is a neighbourhood in Malmö, Sweden, with a population of around 2,000. In the 1990s, the neighbourhood was known for its social and environmental problems, including recurrent urban flooding, stormwater pollution and a lack of green spaces. Malmö City Council decided to regenerate it into a model eco-neighbourhood, combining water resilience, environmental sustainability and quality of life. With a temperate oceanic climate (regular rainfall), the neighbourhood needed to find solutions to manage stormwater sustainably, whilst improving the living environment for its residents.

The Augustenborg regeneration project has transformed this neighbourhood into a model of circular water management by incorporating green roofs, open stormwater management systems and biodiversity corridors. Carried out in the 2000s, this project aims to create a green, resilient and inclusive neighbourhood where water is managed in a natural and sustainable way. The aim was to reduce the risk of flooding, improve water quality and create public spaces for residents.

Solutions implemented

• Green roofs : Installed on public and private buildings to absorb rainwater, improve thermal insulation and reduce the urban heat island effect. These roofs also contribute to biodiversity by providing habitats for flora and fauna.

• Open stormwater management systems : Retention basins and channels designed to store and infiltrate rainwater, thereby reducing surface runoff and the risk of flooding.

• Biodiversity corridors : Connected green spaces to facilitate wildlife movement and improve ecological connectivity within the neighbourhood.

• Citizen participation : Involving residents in the design and management of green spaces, thereby strengthening their sense of ownership and the project’s sustainability.

Key results

• A 50 per cent reduction in rainwater runoff, thereby limiting the risk of flooding in the neighbourhood.

• Improved biodiversity : Green roofs and biodiversity corridors have encouraged the return of local species and the creation of a resilient urban ecosystem.

• Reduction in the urban heat island effect : Thanks to green roofs and green spaces, local temperatures have been lowered, thereby improving thermal comfort for residents.

• Model for urban regeneration : The project’s success has inspired other neighbourhoods in Sweden and internationally, demonstrating how urban regeneration can incorporate sustainable water management.

Climate and environmental impacts

• Climate change mitigation :

  - Green roofs and green spaces help to reduce the urban heat island effect, thereby lowering energy consumption associated with air conditioning.

  - Local stormwater management reduces the need to pump and transport water over long distances, an energy-intensive operation.

• Climate adaptation and resilience :

  - Stormwater management : Retention basins and open systems help to better withstand extreme weather events, such as heavy rainfall or prolonged droughts.

  - Flood reduction : Green infrastructure acts as a natural buffer, absorbing excess water and thereby reducing the risk of flooding.

• Biodiversity : Green roofs and biodiversity corridors provide habitats for a diverse range of flora and fauna, contributing to the restoration of urban ecosystems.

Success factors

• Values :

  - An integrated approach combining water resilience, biodiversity and quality of life.

  - Recognition of the importance of community participation in ensuring the project’s sustainability.

• Connections :

  - Physical connections : Green infrastructure (roofs, ponds, corridors) is integrated into the existing urban fabric, creating a coherent network for stormwater management.

  - Social connections : Collaboration between the local authority, urban planners, environmental experts and residents to design solutions tailored to local needs.

• Investments :

  - Public funding : The project received significant municipal support as part of local sustainable development policies.

  - Grants for green infrastructure : Financial incentives were offered to encourage the adoption of green roofs and other sustainable solutions.

Sources

To go further