Bremen's 'Sponge City' Program Transforms Concrete into Green Spaces by 2025

Bremen has taken steps to turn its urban spaces greener with the launch of its 'Sponge City' program in early 2025. The initiative encourages private owners to remove paved surfaces and replace them with green areas, offering financial incentives to do so. The city joined the nationwide 'Unpave' initiative at the start of 2025. Under the new scheme, residents can reclaim 30% of depaving costs, making it more attractive to transform concrete into green spaces. Elke Meier, an environmental engineer, provides advice to locals on depaving and installing green roofs.

Between 2020 and 2024, Bremen processed just 10 grant applications for depaving projects. Since the 'Sponge City' program began, that number has more than doubled, with 24 applications already submitted. The city also uses a fee structure to encourage depaving, charging higher rates for properties with more sealed surfaces.

Removing paved areas brings multiple benefits. Green spaces help absorb rainwater during heavy downpours, reducing the risk of sewer overflows. They also lower air temperatures and create new habitats for plants and animals. Research has shown that areas with better air quality and more green spaces have a lower risk of depression among residents.

The first adjusted wastewater bills, reflecting the new fee structure, will be issued in 2027. These changes will apply retroactively to properties that have already adopted depaving measures. The program aims to make Bremen more sustainable by reducing sealed surfaces and increasing green areas. Financial incentives and expert guidance are already driving participation. The adjusted billing system will further reinforce the push for a greener city.