In the western part of Karlstad’s city center, an extensive development initiative is underway to create a future sustainable and health-promoting urban environment. Two researchers from the Service Research Center (CTF) are leading the project.
The area, which has a strong cultural and historical character, will become a place for innovation, social values, and green urban development through the project Omställningslabb Karlstad, launching in 2025.
– The vision is an attractive mixed-use district with new housing, commerce, green spaces, culture, and meeting places, says Siri Jagstedt, Senior Lecturer in Business Administration at Karlstad Business School and researcher at CTF.
– Health is a central driving force, and investments in better air quality, active mobility, and public neighborhoods will contribute to both well-being and climate transition, says Johan Netz, researcher at CTF.
The project focuses on three key areas:
- Existing buildings as a resource – through reuse, flexible spaces, and sustainable renovation methods
- Mobility as more than transport – with solutions that promote walking, cycling, and shared travel
- New models for collaboration and financing – where the municipality, business sector, and civil society develop joint solutions
The Omställningslabb Karlstad project is run in collaboration with Karlstad University and several regional stakeholders. The goal is to create an urban environment that combines social, environmental, and economic values – while putting people at the center.
