North Rhine‑Westphalia adopts “NRW 2026” sustainability strategy

The state government of North Rhine‑Westphalia approved a new sustainability programme called “NRW 2026”, under the slogan “Leben in Nordrhein‑Westfalen”. The plan sets out six transformation areas – quality of life, climate protection, mobility, industry, circular economy and others – and will guide the region’s environmental and economic policies in the coming years.

More than 50 organisations, including associations, research institutes, NGOs and municipalities, took part in drafting the strategy. Environment Minister Oliver Krischer stressed that sustainability must improve everyday life, citing cleaner air, reduced noise and more livable neighbourhoods. The programme contains specific sport‑related targets, such as markedly raising membership in clubs by 2030 and expanding inclusive sport offers.

Implementation steps include the 12th Sustainability Conference on 10 September in Bielefeld and the re‑appointment of the Sustainability Advisory Council on 22 June to oversee execution.