“The Citizens’ Initiative for an Integral Green Slovenia strives for a new economic and societal model of development with emphasis on ethical, moral core, and promoting various economic approaches and smart integration of measures for sustainable development” - Integral Green Slovenia

Slovenia has emerged as a leader in sustainable urban planning, integrating green infrastructure, local economies, and community-driven initiatives to create resilient and liveable cities. With a strong focus on the 15-minute city concept, pedestrian-friendly urban spaces, and sustainable consumption, Slovenia’s model demonstrates how social economy principles and environmental sustainability can work together to improve quality of life.

Like many European cities, Slovenia’s urban areas have faced challenges due to rapid urbanisation, increased traffic congestion, and environmental degradation. Conventional urban planning models often prioritised cars over pedestrians, reducing access to green spaces and community-friendly infrastructure. Additionally, a disconnect between local producers and urban consumers limited the growth of sustainable local economies. Recognising these challenges, Slovenia developed an integrated approach to urban planning that places residents, sustainability, and social economy models at its core.

The solution

Slovenia’s green urban model includes:

15-Minute city implementation: Cities like Ljubljana have restructured urban spaces to ensure that essential services workplaces, schools, healthcare, and cultural centres are within a 15-minute walking or cycling distance. Car-free zones, pedestrian pathways, and extensive cycling networks have transformed the urban experience. Initiatives such as Ljubljana’s Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan (SUMP) and the Car-Free City Centre Initiative exemplify how the city has successfully reduced congestion while improving accessibility and environmental sustainability.

Local production and consumption: Slovenia Green promotes short supply chains by encouraging businesses to source from local artisans, farmers, and producers. Farmers’ markets, eco-certifications, and urban farming initiatives help strengthen the local economy and food security. Initiatives such as Ljubljana’s Green Supply Chains and the “From Farm to Fork” programme have further reinforced sustainable local production and consumption.

Community participation and social economy: Slovenia Green actively involves local communities, cooperatives, and social enterprises in decision-making processes, ensuring that development aligns with the needs of residents and businesses. The Integral Green Slovenia Initiative has played a crucial role in integrating social economy principles into urban development. Additionally, Ljubljana’s ‘Citizen Participation in Urban Development’ projects have ensured that residents are actively engaged in shaping sustainable urban initiatives.  

Impact and Success

Slovenia’s sustainable urban transformation has led to remarkable improvements in urban liveability, environmental health, and economic resilience. Ljubljana, recognised as the European Green Capital (2016), has become a global model for sustainable cities, with 75% of transport in the city centre now occurring via walking, cycling, or public transit. The expansion of local markets and short supply chains has boosted local businesses and reduced dependence on imported goods, fostering a more circular and self-sufficient economy. Slovenia’s inclusive governance approach, which involves residents, NGOs, and cooperatives in shaping policies, has strengthened community ownership of sustainable initiatives, creating lasting social and economic benefits.

Conclusion

Slovenia’s approach to green urban transformation highlights how integrating the social economy with sustainability-driven urban planning can create thriving, resilient cities. By prioritising pedestrian-friendly spaces, community-driven initiatives, and local economies, Slovenia serves as a best practice for cities worldwide.