Brownfield management in Germany: A sustainable issue

Abstract

This paper outlines the current situation and activities in Germany concernng the management and redevelopment of brownfields in Germany. The topic is closely linked to the strategy of the German Government on sustainable development in the country. Brownfield redevelopment has been identified as one of the major tools for supporting the reduction of land consumption. The avoidance of urban sprawl and the reduction of greenfield consumption had been identified as a key indicator for sustainable development. The government has set the target of reducing land consumption for settlement and traffic purposes to 30 hectares per day until 2020, from 113 hectares per day at present. Based on this target, a number of research activities have emerged, and new land management approaches and strategies developed.