Climate Protection in Dortmund: March 2026 – Implementation, Funding, and New Strategies

Climate Protection in Dortmund: March 2026 – Implementation, Funding, and New Strategies

Dortmund has been actively committed to climate protection for years, and March 2026 marks a significant milestone in the implementation of its long-term climate goals. Numerous decisions by the Committee for Climate Protection, Environment, Urban Design, and Housing show how the city is addressing the challenges of the climate crisis – from the redefinition of committees to investments in infrastructure and biodiversity.

1. Climate Neutrality in Focus: Heat Pumps, Cooling Supply, and Energy Use Plan

In March, the Final Report of the Energy Use Plan (ENP) was acknowledged. The ENP is a central element of the climate protection strategy and serves as a guide for the city's future energy planning. The statement on the heat pump strategy was also discussed, which proposes a systematic transition to renewable heat sources.

A further focus was the climate-neutral transition of the cooling supply at Dortmund University Hospital. Here, the replacement of high-GWP (Global Warming Potential) equipment with climate-friendly alternatives is being advanced. Free cooling in winter reduces energy demand and greenhouse gas emissions. These measures illustrate how Dortmund is actively shifting its public infrastructure.

2. Funding and Promotion: KRiS, Bauturbo, and Climate Advisory Board

The city also dealt intensively with the funding of climate-resilient projects in March. A key focus was the KRiS program (Climate-Resilient Region with International Reach). Dortmund is involved in several development areas such as Huckarde, Schüren, and Westerfilde/Bodelschwingh. KRiS offers up to 250 million euros in funding for measures such as de-sealing surfaces, green roofs, and rainwater management.

In addition, the Bauturbo was discussed – a revision of urban development law aimed at accelerating the housing construction process. The city welcomes the goal but wants to ensure clear requirements for climate-friendly construction measures. Recommendations for the application of Bauturbo were submitted, particularly in the areas of densification and conversion.

Another important topic was the reappointment of the Climate Advisory Board, which serves as an advisory body for the city. The board is a central partner in the development and implementation of climate policy strategies.

3. Mobility and Infrastructure: Bicycle Lanes, Carsharing, and Traffic Management

Dortmund is increasingly focusing on mobility transition-oriented measures. In March, concrete plans for Veloroute 1 were presented, which will be established as a bicycle street in several sections. The costs for signage and marking amount to 650,000 euros. The redevelopment of Sonnenstraße with an investment volume of 5.5 million euros is part of the Ruhr Bicycle Expressway (RS1), which is expected to significantly improve regional cycling mobility.

In addition, a Carsharing Concept (Stage 2) was presented, which plans for the expansion of the range of services in the city. Traffic management measures in the Leuthardstraße and other areas aim to further reduce motorized individual transport.

4. Biodiversity and Green Spaces: Landscape Plan, Scattered Orchards, and Sponge City Elements

The Landscape Plan and the Biodiversity Concept are current focal points in urban development. The Landscape Plan covers 152 km², including 27 km² of nature reserves. Within the plan, 14.3 ha of small water bodies, 25.2 ha of scattered orchards, and 143.4 ha of extensively used green spaces are planned. The total funding amounts to 18.5 million euros.

Another important project is the habitat connectivity between Wickeder Ostholz and Wickeder Holz in Husen. In addition, the Sponge City Strategy was discussed, particularly the role of green roofs and sealing degree. Although there is currently no legal regulation, these elements are mandatory in zoning plans.

Outlook: Climate Protection as a Central Part of Urban Development

March 2026 shows how Dortmund integrates climate protection into various areas such as energy, mobility, funding, and biodiversity. The city is investing in concrete measures, strategic committees, and innovative funding models to achieve its climate goals by 2035. In the coming months, the results of the KRiS funding and the implementation of the Bauturbo strategy will be particularly noteworthy.