SHANGHAI, May 24 /PRNewswire-Asia/ -- Since the end of the 1980s, Swedish city Malmo and the city of Tangshan in China have been sister cities -- a relationship that is now being strengthened through a partnership in sustainable urban development. During a three-year period starting from October 2010, the two cities will exchange knowledge and jointly develop practical concepts for sustainable cities of the future.
A joint declaration to endorse the project plans will be signed by the mayors of the two cities at the Consulate General of Sweden in Shanghai on 31 May.
Malmo and Tangshan will be pioneers in working together on concrete climate issues. We take a joint responsibility for the sustainable development of our cities with high ambitions to become an international model of how cities can successfully cooperate in these fields, says Ilmar Reepalu Mayor of Malmo.
The project will run for three years in the form of a training programme with two parallel focus areas -- sustainable urban design and organic waste as a resource for urban renewable energy. The purpose is to exchange knowledge and learn from each other's experiences in developing practical and future-oriented concepts for sustainable cities. Moreover, the project will create a platform for contacts between Swedish and Chinese businesses and organisations that engage in sustainability issues.
The project is expected to get underway in October 2010 and for implementation, the cities are seeking support from the Swedish International Centre for Local Democracy (ICLD).
Two cities with high ambitions
The city of Malmo took an important initial step towards sustainable urban development as early as 2001, when the award-winning and internationally acclaimed Bo01 residential area in the Western Harbour was inaugurated. This, as well as subsequent projects make Malmo an international source of inspiration. In 2009 Malmo was awarded the highly prestigious Scroll of Honour by UN Habitat for its innovative and holistic approach to become a 21st century eco-city.
The city of Tangshan too has high ambitions. Currently, the first phase of its impressive, international eco-city of Caofeidian is being put to place. When completed Caofeidian will be home for between 500,000 and 800,000 persons.
Malmo’s work is showcased at the Expo in Shanghai
During the Expo 2010 the city of Malmo has the privilege to participate in the Urban Best Practice Area. Here, Malmo is showcasing its successful work in transforming a former industrial area, the Western Harbour, into an attractive sustainable city district featuring leading applications of renewable energy, building, traffic solutions, greenery and open storm-water systems.
On 24-27 October Malmo will also present a thematic programme with seminars and dialogue meetings in the VIP-section of the Swedish Pavilion.
Further information on Malmo is available on http://www.southernwedenexpo.cn .
