Berlin Future Workshop: Ideas for a climate-friendly life!

Berlin Future Workshop: Ideas for a climate-friendly life!

On May 19, 2025, participants in the fourth future workshop “Responsibility” in the bUm, a space for solidarity, discussed central topics for combating climate change in Berlin. The event, which was organized by the SPD Berlin, highlighted the topics of energy and climate, mobility and sustainable investments. The aim was to develop concrete ideas and suggestions to deal responsibly with the challenges of climate change, especially in urban areas. The meeting brought together five working groups, each focusing on investments in the city, energetic Berlin, the mobility of tomorrow, a climate-friendly city and state-owned companies.

A key aspect of the discussion was the urgent need to improve urban mobility through sustainable investments. It was emphasized that new bus depots are necessary to enable closer frequency and expansion of local public transport, while at the same time requiring long-term and reliable investments. In addition, clear guidelines for unsealing and the combined use of roof areas with greenery and photovoltaics were essential suggestions that are particularly useful for heat-stressed districts.

Integration of climate protection and infrastructure

Energy supply was also up for debate. The participants discussed the expansion of renewable energies and climate-friendly district heating from ecological, economic and urban planning aspects. Michael Geißler from the Berlin Energy Agency emphasized the importance of integrated heat planning to advance the decarbonization of the city. He pointed out that the heat transition requires coordinated measures in the areas of infrastructure, financing and administration in order to achieve the climate goals.

The dialogue between experts and urban society plays an important role in the future planning of the SPD Berlin. As part of the 2035 Future Program, this exchange is to be intensified in order to bring about sustainable changes in the city. It is emphasized that responsibility also includes areas such as the punctual arrival of the subway and investments in climate-neutral energy. What is fundamental is the strengthening of municipal heat planning, which is also related to the recommendations of the German Energy Agency (dena).

Political framework for private investments

dena emphasizes that clear framework conditions are necessary for municipalities and neighborhoods in order to support them in implementing the energy transition. Public instruments are intended to create incentives for private investments, which can be promoted through hybrid instruments for companies. According to dena, coordination between the federal, state and local governments should also be intensified to ensure a seamless transition from traditional natural gas networks to a trans-European hydrogen network.

In addition, increasing the speed of digitalization of power grids is crucial. The expectations also include the planning of new and the conversion of existing heating networks, which are key to the heat supply in metropolitan areas. The promotion of building renovation, especially for socially disadvantaged people, should also be continued in order to meet the climate goals. These measures are supported by an increased focus on techniques for defossilization and increasing efficiency.

Overall, the discussions and suggestions from the future workshop show that close cooperation and an integrated approach are essential to make the city climate-neutral and protect future generations. The SPD Berlin and dena have great confidence in this coordinated development.

For further information visit the website SPD Berlin as well as the dena.