Pilot Cities
Pilot Cities (I. Tilraunaborgir) is a research and innovation project. The project focuses on transportation patterns and waste sorting challenges of residents in the capital area. The aim is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions faster in line with Reykjavík City's goal of carbon neutrality by 2030.
Ready to make a difference? Take the survey
Reykjavík City seeks participants for a survey examining transportation habits and waste sorting practices among capital area residents, as well as the challenges they face.
Two lucky participants will have the opportunity to win gift cards valued at 25,000 kr each.
The survey is available in Icelandic, English, and Polish.
Threading through the narrows
Road transportation is the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in the city, accounting for 44% of total emissions in 2023. The third largest emission category is waste, about 10% of total emissions. The project aims to test and implement methods, solutions and services that encourage green transportation and increased waste sorting to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
The project
- This is a collaborative project between Reykjavík City and the University of Iceland.
- I examines the transportation habits and waste management practices of residents and businesses in Reykjavík.
- The project is fully funded by a grant awarded to Reykjavík City for participation in a 112-city European collaboration.
- The project started in September 2024 and continues until 2026.
Why Pilot Cities?
The main objectives and implementation of Pilot Cities will support the Green Deal's action plans for carbon neutrality, green transportation, 15-minute neighborhoods, and focus on public health, inclusive society, and democratic participation.
Eco-friendly and carbon-neutral communities offer many advantages:
- Enhance traffic safety and people's quality of life
- Benefit the environment
- Spur the economy
- Reduce energy consumption and costs
- Strengthen resilience against the impacts of climate change
- Can serve as models for other European cities and globally
Connection to the climate city agreement
Reykjavík was chosen among 112 climate cities to participate in a European collaboration to become carbon neutral by 2030. Part of this project was creating a climate agreement, where various parties in Icelandic society came together on how to achieve this new project.
Preparation for the climate city agreement began in fall 2022, and the agreement was formally signed on October 7, 2024. The agreement included an action plan specifying measures to make Reykjavík City carbon neutral by 2030, accelerating carbon neutrality previously set for 2040. The agreement allows the city to apply for grants supporting climate neutrality goals.
Contact person
The project is managed by the Department of Environment and Planning of Reykjavík City at the Office of Climate Issues, under the Director.
Contact at Reykjavík City:
Ásdís Karen Waltersdóttir
email: loftslagsborgin@reykjavik.is