The district of Malmö has become physically dilapidated, economically challenged and socially deprived since the 1980s. The area suffered from recurrent seasonal flooding due to an inadequate drainage system and a high rate of health problems due to poor drainage and unemployment. In 1998 the Augustenborg District in Malmö, Sweden initiated an extensive urban renovation programme under the name of Ekostaden (Eco-neighbourhood).
The Ekostaden approach sought to address the area as an integrated whole and to transform it into an ecologically, socially and economically sustainable city district. It set high priority on working with the local residents in this process, as well as a range of stakeholders in the public and private sectors.
Community workshops, formal design information sessions, festivals, cultural events and informal chats on street corners helped in shaping a new neighbourhood with public space and community-run cafes and activities. Green roofs creation solved efficiently and sustainably flooding problems.
