The Green Book of Zurich
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Transcript of The Green Book of Zurich
Das Grünbuch der Stadt Zürichintegral p lanen – wirkungsorient ier t handelnThe Green Book of ZurichIntegral p lanning – outcome-or iented act ion
The Green Book of ZurichIntegral p lanning – outcome-or iented act ion
Grün Stadt Zürich, Office of Parks and Open SpacesCivil Engineering and Waste Management Department of the City of Zurich
Table of Contents
Preface
Introduction 7
Future of the City of Zurich 12
Sustainability 16
Environment and Trends 21
Green and Open Spaces Urban Landscape 31
Parks, Squares and Common Land 37
Designated Open Spaces 43
Cemeteries 46
Allotments and Recreational Gardens 48
Sports Grounds and Swimming Facilities 50
Playgrounds and Schoolyards 52
Green in the Streets 54
Flowing Water 56
Residential and Working Environment 59
Forestry 65
Agriculture 71
Basic principles Biodiversity 79
Environment 85
Provision of Open Space 91
Utilisation of Open Space 97
Design of Open Space and Horticultural heritage 103
Participation and Partnerships 109
Environmental Education Green Knowledge 117
Communications Methods 120
Nature Schools 122
The Succulent Plant Collection 124
The Municipal Botanical Garden and Nursery 126
Nature Experience Park 128
Production and Maintenance in Harmony with Nature 130
The Company The Company 135
Processs Management 136
Corporate Values 140
Resources 141
Appendix
Directory of Keywords 144
Glossary and Links 145
List of Sources 151
Imprint and Photographic Credits 155
Urban Planning is Always Green Planning
Zurich is a green city – and will remain a green city.
The careful handling of green spaces is not yet a matter of course in Switzerland, although
constricted space in the countryside often is complained about. The city of Zurich has been
consistently reinforcing its green credentials for some time now. And it has paid off, as
inter national ranking lists regularly place Zurich in the top spot globally when the quality of life
of the inhabitants is assessed. The high quality of the city’s open spaces undoubtedly plays a
key role here. The city has a wide diversity of plants and animals: in Zurich nature and urban life
are not contradictory. In surveys that are conducted regularly, the city’s population consistently
expresses satisfaction with the green facilities on offer and has a high regard for them.
However, we should not rest on these laurels as the demands placed on green spaces are
constantly changing. The city will continue to grow, particularly due to densification. However
there can be no development without the provision of high-quality green and open spaces.
The city has again and again been presented with awards for its new parks that have been
handed over to the public in recent years. Most recently the areas along the riverbanks have
been enhanced substantially. Attention continues to focus on the rivers but the entire length
of the riverside should be enjoyed as a local recreational area and at the same time serve as
an axis for pedestrian and cycle traffic. This coexistence of land uses is what characterises
the urban living space, but this also needs careful planning.
This Green Book represents a comprehensive strategy for the city of Zurich’s green and open
spaces and for its green knowledge. A good city-wide linking of concepts and aims is needed to
ensure that the different paths of urban development do not get in the way of each other.
With these stated objectives and specific statements, we will ensure the significance of green
space in Zurich – for the good of the urban population and for the good of Nature.
What is more: this comprehensive environmental approach only costs the citizens of Zurich
53 centimes per day. The price of a cup of coffee per week funds all of the parks in Zurich,
the riverbanks, the playgrounds, the upkeep of the municipal forests, the city's avenues,
the cemeteries, the sports fields, and all other green spaces.
Very little money for such a major effect!
I hope that you have a lively discussion and debate about the future of green and open spaces
in our urban living space.
Martin Waser, City Council
7The Green Book of Zurich
General Integral planning – outcome-orientated action in relation to green and open spaces, basic principles,
environmental education as the new corporate culture are new challenges that Grün Stadt Zürich (GSZ), the city of
Zurich's Office of Parks and Open Spaces, has set itself. Following the amalgamation of the former Offices for Horticulture,
Agriculture and Forestry in 2001, the time is now ripe to take a further integration step.
It was an ambitious undertaking to amalgamate these different fields to ensure that they become more transparent and
understandable and to facilitate specific aims. The linking of strategic long-term objectives with shorter-term and more
specific planning issues is a primary concern. The Green Book is the superior mission statement of GSZ’s concepts and
products.
The idea of integral planning and result-orientated action was given decisive support by three superordinate processes:
> The report on financial compensation between the Confederation and the Cantons urgently recommends an integrated
approach to the environmental sector as a whole. It states: “In the environmental, forestry and agriculture sectors, we
should distance ourselves from the sector-based approach practised to date and encourage a more coordinated and
integrated way of thinking and acting.”
> Modification of the organisational structure into a so-called performance-oriented administration management or new
public management structure (NPM).
> The “City Council Management Model” project defines pan-urban management processes that link the different levels
and instrumentally support management. Again here an orientation towards an outcome and an integrated approach is
at the forefront.
Objectives and Target Audience of the Green Book The Green Book is targeted at different groups with different
objectives:
> Zurich City Council for political advice and decision-making
> The City Parliament of Zurich for political advice and opinion-forming
> Employees of Grün Stadt Zürich as aims and objectives
> The relevant offices of the City and Canton for consideration in planning
> The “Verbund Lebensraum Zürich VLZ” (Association for Zurich Living Space) and other partner organisations
for discussion and support
> Other “environmental bodies” and interested groups for the exchange of information
> Academies and research institutions for in-depth scientific consolidation and support
The Green Book is therefore primarily aimed at those in positions of political responsibility, GSZ employees and
interested expert groups. Excerpts will follow but the current version is available for perusal on the GSZ homepage.
Introduct ion
8 The Green Book of Zurich
StructureoftheGreenBookThe issues described in the Green Book are intricately linked to each other. However,
in order to minimise repetition of identical or similar statements, the key connections in terms of objectives and fields of
action within the Green Book have been compiled in a table.
The Green Book also shows for each topic area how it is arranged within the structure of GSZ and which product groups and
customer groups are affected. It also shows the sustainability claims and indicators (according to MONET) that the topic area
affects. The directory of keywords will help readers to find their way around selectively.
Division of chapters:
> The Future of the City of Zurich This chapter sets out in the form of strategic focal points the contributions and services
provided by GSZ in terms of its urban development visions.
> Sustainability This section sets out how the Green Book and GSZ objectives are integrated within sustainability,
as prescribed by MONET.
> Environment and Trends This section outlines the overall context within which the core topics of the Green Book are viewed
and which exogenic factors should be taken into consideration. The trends indicate key general developments.
> Green and Open Spaces This section discusses specific land-related topics, describing their current state, target state
in 10 years time, key indicators and fields of action.
> Basic Principles This section sets out the objectives and fields of action that affect green and open spaces,
environmental education and the company itself.
> Environmental Education This section outlines the objectives and fields of action of Green Knowledge.
> The Company This section describes how the objectives and strategies are implemented across the process
management, which resources are available and how the company›s corporate values are defined.
Development of the Green Book The Green Book corresponds to the culture of GSZ, defining the future
by involving employees and in discussion with key partners. A large number of GSZ employees and external experts
were involved in this book in three project groups. Interfaces became transparent and had to be discussed. Different
approaches and terms had to be reassessed. The broad support structure within GSZ guarantees that this undertaking will
be completed, in that it has been continuously examined in terms of viability and there is also a high degree of emotional
commitment on the part of those involved.
A draft of the report has been discussed in detail and a number of suggestions have been added. The following groups
have been invited for consultation:
> Zurich Committee for Nature and Open Spaces (Natur- und Freiraumkommission NFK), Wildlife Park Committee
(Wildparkkommission), Wildlife Conservation Area Committee (Wildschonrevierkommission)
> Executive Board of the Zurich Living Space Association (Verbund Lebensraum Zürich VLZ)
> Farmers and forest owners
> Affected authorities
> Management, personnel with responsibility for products and other management personnel within GSZ
> Specialist experts
> Other interested persons
Introduction
9The Green Book of Zurich
Further development of the 1986 and 1999 Open Space Concepts The Green Book represents a
further development of earlier planning documents. The 1986 Open Space Concept was a key basis for securing areas by
legal regulations in the the Building and Zoning Ordinance (Bau- und Zonenordnung BZO). The 1999 Open Space Concept
initiated in particular the enhancing of the river areas and the landscape development concepts. Today’s high standard
of green and open space within the city and the environmental awareness resulting from this are based on these basic
documents.
Innovation factor In general the comprehensive and integral handling of green and open spaces, as well as
environmental education about mandatory processes for their implementation by the company is regarded as being
innovative. New aspects that complete the circle include the dovetailing of strategic, concept-based and operational
levels, as well as the systematic monitoring of success using effect balances and benchmarking.
The innovation factor is very different within the individual issues, as there are already very high standards in certain areas
that will not change markedly in ten years. Thus, for instance, the city of Zurich has a significantly higher percentage of
organic agricultural land than BUWAL (the Swiss Agency for the Environment, Forests and Landscape, today: BAFU, Office
for the Environment) was generally aiming for with its “Landscape 2020” report.
There is still much to be done In spite of all of the positive aspects, we should not overlook the fact that it
continues to be a challenge to uphold the outcome of greenery as well as its appreciation. There is, however, the political
will to offer the population a high level of environmental services. As a whole, it is and remains an exciting challenge to
design a high quality of life for the future.
Introduction
How the Green Book Was Established
GSZ development of objectives and strategy Resultat
Analysis Adaptation 1st draft Adaptation 2nd draft Adaptation
3rd draft Integral planning
The City of Zurich's Green Book
Starting position
Sector-based planning
Office for Horticulture
Office for Agriculture
Forestry Office
Product groupProduct
Annual planningBalance of effects
ConsultationStatement
Mer
ger
to fo
rm G
SZ
ObjectivesSpecifications
Environment, trends
Strategies, concepts
Sustainability
Green and open spaces
Basic principles
Environmental education
The Company
The Future of the City of Zur ich
12 The Green Book of Zurich
The Future of the City of Zur ich
TheCityCouncil’sstrategicthrustforsustainableurbandevelopment
Zürichis…
…acosmopolitanandtolerantcitythatisgloballynetworkedandhasexcellentconnections.
…aninternationallyimportantinnovativeanddynamicknowledgeandeconomiccentrewith
solidfinances
…anattractivecity inwhichto livewithastablepopulationthat isequal tothenumberof
availablejobs.
…acitywith thehighestqualityof living,owing to its location,culture, infrastructureand
environmentalconditions.
…anenvironmentallyandsocially responsiblecityandastrongpartner for itsneighbours
andSwitzerlandasawhole.
13The Green Book of Zurich
The Future of the City of Zurich
The Future of Grün Stadt Zur ich
TenstrategicprioritiesforasustainableenvironmentaloutcomeThe following strategic focal areas
have been defined based on the City Council’s “Vision 2025” and summarising the following objectives and fields of action
specified in the Green Book. These are key functions for a continued successful green outcome.
> Quality of life: GSZ will make available high-quality green and open spaces in the ever more densely-built city.
These will offer the residential and working population, as well as visitors to the city, many opportunities for recreation,
exercise, meeting up as well as experiences with nature and will therefore be much appreciated by the population.
> Biodiversity: GSZ will promote the diversity of species by environmental friendly maintenance and production in
harmony with nature, by linking habitats and targeted protection measures. These measures will be highly accepted
within the population.
> Green Knowledge: By means of its “Green Knowledge” approach, GSZ will promote an understanding of
Nature, starting in kindergartens and progressing right through to teaching and research in universities. Attractive
education about nature will be a fixed element within Zurich, the city of knowledge. Nature Schools, the Succulent
Plant Collection, the Municipal Botanical Garden and Nursery and Zurich Wilderness Park (Wildnispark Zürich) will
all be popular and well-known green educational centres.
> Influence on external land: GSZ will improve the quality of green space in possession of other authorities, residential
builders, and private individuals with consultancy, partnerships and project support.
> Conservation of soil fertility: GSZ will prevent further contamination of soil to maintain its fertility by means of
consultation and environmentally-friendly maintenance and production.
> Adequate and varied recreational space: GSZ will provide an attractive range of open spaces to meet the needs of
the population. In underserved areas, hitherto designated open spaces will be opened up for further recreational use
or new park facilities will be created.
> Social responsibility: Green spaces will contribute to the integration of the different population groups and social
strata. As an employer, GSZ will create integration jobs for skilled craftsmen and women.
> Communication and participation: Within the population itself, understanding will be promoted for different environmental
issues and pleasure will be taken in the variety of green spaces around the city. The development of the green spaces will take
place with the involvement of those affected by it.
> Integral planning: GSZ will strive for a long-term holistic development of green spaces by means of interdisciplinary
planning within the city and also beyond the boundaries of the city. This integral planning will ensure the transfer from
the different planning levels through to implementation within GSZ.
> Outcome-orientated approach: GSZ will cost-effectively provide green services to meet the demand and will
systematically measure the outcome to continuously improve benefits to customers.
Sustainabi l i ty
16 The Green Book of Zurich
Sustainable development
Social solidarity Economic performance Ecological responsibility
Postulations forObjective and subjective living conditionsDistributive justice, equal opportunitiesSocial coherenceDevelopment of human capitalInternational solidarity
Postulations forEconomic systemPerformance and competitivenessFlexibility / stabilityProduction / consumptionEmploymentInternational trade
Postulations forConsumption of resourcesMaterials and wasteRisksSpeed of change Nature and cultivated land
Indicators
The scope of sustainable development according to MONET:
17The Green Book of Zurich
By ratifying Agenda 21, based on the declaration issued by the 1992 UN Environmental Conference in Rio de Janeiro,
Switzerland undertook to define and implement a strategy of sustainable development. Since this has been incorporated
into the Swiss Federal Constitution, the Confederation has an obligation to develop ways and means to develop and
monitor sustainability. To achieve this objective, a number of federal agencies and 24 experts defined in 2003 a system of
indicators called “MONET” (Monitoring der nachhaltigen Entwicklung) to monitor and assess sustainable development.
Definition of sustainable development According to the Brundtland Commission’s definition, sustainable
development is a “development meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations
to meet their own needs”. MONET is also based on this globally recognised definition.
Sustainability is measurable and can be tested MONET describes over 160 indicators, of which around
120 are currently applied. They relate to 45 assertions that act as pointers specifying the target scope of sustainable
development. In 2005 the system was successfully applied in 8 cantons and 14 cities. However, as with all systems, the fact
should not be ignored that the individual indicators only permit point-based statements, contradict each other to a certain
extent and are weighted differently. It is essential to consider sustainability in a joined-up and interdisciplinary manner.
The assessment of its effectiveness is an open, developing entity.
Sustainability in the Green Book It stands to reason that GSZ also regards its spheres of influence within
the context of sustainable development. This should also be seen against the background that the City Council defined
sustainable development as a strategic focal area in 2002 and that the effectiveness of the municipal administration is
measured against this. A first Sustainability Report was produced for the City of Zurich in 2003, based on 21 indicators
that highlighted the global developments of the city. The claims and indicators to comply with MONET were only developed
after this and tested in practice. As these are based on an essentially broader set of indicators, they better meet the range
of services provided by GSZ.
The Green Book presents the link to the MONET postulates and indicators in a table for each topic area. GSZ has also
implemented an environmental management system, certified to ISO 14001, to improve its own internal sustainability.
Sustainabi l i ty
Environment and Trends
21The Green Book of Zurich
Environment and Trends
Thepopulation’sdemands forqualityof lifeandtoGrünStadtZürich(GSZ) Surveys conducted
every two years among the inhabitants of Zurich regularly present a similar picture: Zurich’s inhabitants love their city, with
90% of those surveyed being either happy or very happy to live in Zurich. In terms of their quality of life, those surveyed
refer most frequently to the intact environment, the residential environment and leisure and recreation – services provided
for the most part by GSZ. Admittedly the population is satisfied with the green spaces and parks but rates their importance
higher than their satisfaction. This demonstrates that there is still potential for improvement. 88% of those surveyed are
very satisfied or satisfied with the services provided by GSZ, 7% are dissatisfied and 5% have no opinion.
From spatial planning to spatial design The call for new forms of spatial development and in accordance
with appropriate guidelines can be heard from many different quarters. There is a demand, for instance, for structural
densification, fiscal incentives to lessen land consumption, the definition of priority land uses, prevention of urban sprawl
in the countryside, systematic enforcement of laws and the channelling of mobility demands.
The Federal Office for Spatial Development (Bundesamt für Raumentwicklung ARE) is attempting to accommodate the
many and varied needs. It used its “2005 Spatial Development Report” (Raumentwicklungsbericht 2005) to outline
the main lines of attack for the future. The key statements that affect the city of Zurich are as follows:
> The development to becoming a service society is one of the main reasons for increasing urbanisation.
> The number of commuters in the metropolitan cities has almost tripled in the last 30 years.
> There are significant shortfalls in cooperation between the agglomerations and their core towns.
> Land continues to be consumed at a rate of approximately one square metre per second, with around two-thirds
being used for buildings and change of use and one third for transport.
> The 60,000 ha of building zone that is still to be developed throughout Switzerland could be used to provide living
space and infrastructure for around 2,5 million people without requiring additional structural densification.
> Around half a million people live outside of the building zone. Approximately 13% of all building projects also affect land
outside of the building zone.
> The biggest challenge to spatial planning is increased and systematic cooperation at all levels of politics.
Value added levy and reverse zoning These two requirements will shape political discussions on spatial
development in the next few years. However, it is uncertain to what extent they can be implemented. The recommendation of
the Spatial Planning Act (Raumplanungsgesetz RPG) Art. 5 to the cantons is as follows: Consistently strive for a value added
levy and planning yields with regard to sustainability. Even clearer are the demands from environmental associations that are
increasingly discussing this topic.
Spatialandresidentialdevelopment intheCantonandintheCityofZurichAround one sixth of
the land area of the Canton of Zurich lies within the building zone and today approximately 62% of it is developed. The
utilisation figure of the building zone is significantly higher in the city of Zurich than in the rural areas; the percentage of
developed land is 93% here and the percentage of expansion is 72%. On average over the last 15 years, consumption of the
building zone is approximately 160 hectares per year in the Canton and just under 8 hectares per year in the city. If this level
of consumption remains constant, the reserves of building land throughout the Canton will only last for approximately
25 years, while they will last for around 40 years in the city. The volume of developed floor area can still be extended by
around 50% above all by means of densification.
According to data provided by the cantonal building insurance company, approx. 800 buildings or approx 0,7% of the
volume of buildings lie on agricultural or forestry land. Throughout the entire Canton of Zurich this figure rises to approx.
30,000 buildings or approx. 6%. In the last 20 years, the take-up of square footage in the Canton has risen by 11% to
122 m2 per resident or worker. In the city of Zurich, every person living or working here encroaches on less than half of the
cantonal average – namely 60 m2.
22 The Green Book of Zurich
Environment and Trends
The Canton of Zurich defines the following objectives for sustainable residential development, among others:
> The land should be used economically by inward building development.
> Means of transport should be low-emission and efficient in terms of resources.
> Habitats and the countryside should be maintained and promoted; the growth of buildings outside of the building zone
should be minimised.
Urban Space 2010 Internationally renowned experts produced a report on behalf of the Economic Delegation of
the Zurich’s City Council that evaluated public space.
The experts provided a positive image and produced the following findings:
> The attractive landscape can be well experienced by the wonderful view and favourable location.
> The seasons and changing climate can be experienced in public spaces.
> The city of Zurich has all of the qualities of a city and comes across as being larger than it actually is.
> Thanks to its public spaces and surrounding landscape, Zurich is a “green” city.
> The identity of the city of Zurich is markedly shaped by its history, buildings, open spaces and transport network.
A number of different tools were created within the municipality to ensure that these good values continue to be upheld
in the future, such as a land-related relevancy plan, normative design standards, a catalogue for equipment, checklists to
ensure the quality of amenities, and guidelines for the use of art in public places.
What has the Building and Zoning Ordinance (BZO) achieved in terms of open space? The
Building and Zoning Ordinance BZO 99 supported with tools, like the Open Space Concept, Nature Inventories, Stream Concept
etc. and with different action programmes, brought about an overall satisfactory development of the green space and open
space, although some loss of land had to be accepted. The main problems are and remain the very different provision of green
space in the various quarters and the continuing great need for designated open spaces, for instance for sport. The defined
percentage of open space for the industrial or service zone is too low at 10 – 15%, as these are essentially service companies,
whose employees utilise the open space intensively.
Rooftop greenery, now firmly enshrined in law since the last BZO revision, has a positive effect on the climate and water
supply, a particularly important factor in view of the increasing sealing of soil. Land use can be kept within limits through more
compact building and the continued exhaustion of utilisation rates. What is all the more important is a high quality of structural
densification that also takes into consideration the need for open spaces.
The planning of green and open spaces in other towns How do other towns and cities plan their green
and open spaces? Where does Zurich come in an international comparison? To discover this, planning documents from the
cities of Berlin, Hamburg, Frankfurt, Freiburg and Stuttgart were analysed by the University of Applied Sciences Rapperswil
(Hochschule für Technik Rapperswil HSR) and proposals have been incorporated in the Green Book from these examples.
An analysis of the German cities showed the following: the outer conurbation area is involved to a much greater extent
in planning than is the case in Zurich. This implies that planning should extend far beyond the municipal boundaries in
Zurich; the “Regional Planning for Zurich and Surroundings” project (Regionalplanung Zürich und Umgebung RZU) points
in the right direction when it talks about “Housing and Transport”. Regional cooperation on green and open spaces can
be advantageous for everyone, for instance within the framework of an Association for Open Spaces or in connection with
landscape development concepts.
23The Green Book of Zurich
Environment and Trends
The population is generally encouraged to become involved in Germany as well as in Zurich. There, too, the quality of open
spaces is gaining importance over the quantity. Our proximity to implementation is a plus point compared with the German
cities, where prescribed closed planning regulations have less of a cohesive relationship with implementation.
The significance of green spaces in terms of locational competition appears to have had significantly greater importance
in Germany for some time than is the case in Switzerland. The use of strong marketing campaigns, images and labels,
such as “GrünesNetzHamburg” (Hamburg Green Network) or “Grüngürtel Frankfurt” (Frankfurt Green Belt) succinctly
communicate the message and create an identity.
ComparisonofthedemandforgreenspacesbetweenthecitiesIn Zurich, the City Council has defined
as a guideline figure an area of 8 m2 of publicly accessible open space that can be reached on foot per inhabitant. It is
significantly less for approximately one quarter of the residential population. Compared with other cities, this guideline
figure is low; Hamburg aims for an area of 13 m2 and Munich as much as 25 m2 of open space. These figures play an
increasingly important role in competitions between cities. It is a well-known fact that public open space is a scarce commodity
in Zurich. As demand exceeds supply there are inevitably conflicts – and the challenging balancing of interests, for instance
between sports grounds and allotment gardens. In order to plan for these demands and for the provision of open space for
the future, GSZ has developed a specific model entitled “Open Space Provision for the City of Zurich” (Freiraumversorgung
der Stadt Zürich) that it is using to analyse the current state, simulate developments and generate forecasts.
What is the value of green space? The State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (Staatssekretariat für Wirt-
schaft SECO) in Berne has identified the benefits of the landscape for the Swiss trourism industry and has valued it,
conservatively, at 2.5 billion francs per year.
The value of forestry is also calculated in different ways. According to the Swiss Agency for the Environment, Forestry and
Agriculture’s (BUWAL) 2005 report “The Monetary Value of Forests” (Der monetäre Wert des Waldes), the recreational
benefits of the forests alone amount to approximately 10 billion francs or 1,778 francs per adult per year for Switzerland.
A study by the Swiss Research Centre for Forestry, Snow and Landscape (Eidg. Forschungsanstalt für Wald, Schnee und
Landschaft WSL) quantifies the recreational value of forests in the city of Zurich at around 30 million francs per year.
Of course it may appear strange if monetary values are calculated for forests and the landscape and if a price is sought for
everything. The environmental pioneer Frederic Vester provoked controversy in the 1980s when he stated that a bluethroat
had a value of 237 francs and 15 centimes. The interesting thing in this is the derivation about what “services” provided
by the bluethroat, such as rodent combating, seed distribution, bio indicator, feast for the ears and eyes etc., have been
included.
This is even more specific with regard to CO2 emissions. If Switzerland does not reach its climate target by 2012, the
Kyoto Protocol will force Switzerland to compensate for the shortfall with the purchase of emission certificates. Based on
estimations from the Federal Department of the Environment, Transport, Energy and Communications (Eidg. Departement
für Umwelt, Verkehr, Energie und Kommunikation UVEK) and the ÖBU Network for Sustainable Business (Netzwerk für
nachhaltiges Wirtschaften) this could amount to between 200 and 300 million francs per year.
The increase in the value of property close to green spaces is well known but is hard to prove in individual cases.
Landscape 2020, BUWAL Analysis and Trends – where does Zurich stand? BUWAL, the Swiss
Agency for the Environment, Forestry and Agriculture, published a comprehensive report at the end of 2003 on the
development of the countryside in Switzerland that also identified key trends in the development of influences shaping
the landscape. It defined indicators and targets that were to be achieved in Switzerland by the year 2020. It highlighted
the fact that there are a number of critical indicators and developments in Zurich – for instance the degree of soil sealing,
contaminated sites, and the interweaving of ecological areas. However, Zurich performed well, in parts even very well, with
other indicators and developments: the accessibility of the lake and rivers, diversity of species, recreational amenities in
residential areas, the interlinking of footpaths and hiking routes all came off positively in the self-assessment. The relatively low
percentage of buildings outside of the building zone, the importance of organic agriculture, the forest reserves, quality of
24 The Green Book of Zurich
Environment and Trends
water, appearance of the landscape, participatory processes in rural development, our sustainability tools, low living space per
inhabitant and the opening up of streams were also viewed very positively. The comparison of the BUWAL indicators with
the current situation in Zurich was positive overall. It is essential to hold onto this finding and improve on it wherever
possible.
Maintaining and promoting biodiversity The diversity of species is significantly higher in the city than in
rural areas with its numerous monocultures. A wide and varied flora and fauna is and remains a key aim. Genetically
modified seed results in farming methods based on even more monocultures with the known opportunities and risks that
this presents. The diversity of species can be maintained and extended with a range of different species support measures,
a high percentage of organically cultivated agricultural land, large areas of natural forests, diverse planting of green roofs
among other measures.
Environmental conservation becomes an economic factor Environmental conservation is a booming
branch of the economy, as highlighted by different WWF, Pusch (Stiftung praktischer Umweltschutz Schweiz) and BUWAL
studies. The deep-rooted misconception that environmental conservation is paralysing the economy with its regulations,
wastes money and devours subsidies is contradicted in many cases. The GDP growth of environmental products has risen
at an above-average rate in the last 8 years and the number of jobs has risen significantly. In spite of this positive trend,
the Swiss economy has not been able to keep pace in the pioneering role it has held for a long time. Switzerland is no
longer the pioneering country for economical environmental conservation. Some of its neighbouring countries are much
more advanced now.
GreenhousegasesEnvironmental physicists at the University of Berne have been able to reconstruct greenhouse
gases over the last 8 ice ages. This has been able to prove with some certainty that the concentration of carbon dioxide in
the atmosphere is 27% higher today than during the last 650,000 years.
Bio filters for fine dust Fine particle dust emission is increasingly recognised and discussed as being an
environmental problem. Vegetation in the city takes on even greater importance in this respect. The Universities of Karls-
ruhe and Essen are conducting research into the filtering effect of trees and other vegetation systems along the side of
streets on air pollutants. Clearly the potential has been considerably underestimated up to now. A fully-grown deciduous
tree can thus bind up to 1,000 kg of dust thanks to the surface of its leaves that is around 10 times greater than its base
area. Both reports indicate that the effects of lush vegetation significantly exceed the technical capacities of particle filters
and should not replace them but rather add to their effectiveness.
Manifesto NATURE Congress The first “NATURE Congress” held in February 2006 in Basle with international
participation was intended to be the start of a regular examination of environmental developments. The manifesto that
was published included 8 primary demands, of which the following, summarised below, were of special importance for
Zurich:
> Nature parcs: There is a need for new national parks and regional nature parks. They need adequate funding. There
needs to be credible criteria to maintain biological variety and diversity of landscapes.
> Natural residential areas in the city: The planning of settlement development and construction activity should benefit
both nature and the population.
> Biodiversity: The population, politics and industry must become aware of the importance of biodiversity. Switzerland
needs a biodiversity strategy and the necessary funding for its fast implementation.
> Climate: Greenhouse gases must be reduced to half of their 1990 level by the year 2050. This needs massive cuts in CO2
emissions and voluntary action by companies. The effects on the climate should be declared on products so that the
consumers can act in a more climate-aware manner.
25The Green Book of Zurich
Environment and Trends
> Agriculture: The promotion of biodiversity in cultivated land must be paid for. Agriculture that conserves nature must
become a priority amongst the scientific community. Trade agreements should promote global environmental methods of
production.
> Information and education: There needs to be a new wave of information, awareness and education. Public authorities
must provide the funding for this. The research community must provide practice-orientated principles.
Federalfinancing A study published in 2001 by the Swiss Foundation for Landscape Protection (Stiftung Landschafts-
schutz Schweiz) highlighted the fact that around 90% of direct or indirect regionally effective subsidies from the
Confederation, amounting to around 90 billion francs, tend to have a negative effect on the landscape. The study “Landscape
2020” (Landschaft 2020) demands unambiguous federal subsidies from all political departments that affect the regions
to have concern for nature and the landscape. Changes are needed within the Confederation’s subsidy, finance and tax
policies or a new direction in terms of a comprehensive land use policy is called for.
BioenergyisontheadvanceinEurope In 1997 the European Commission published its white paper “Energy
for the Future: Renewable Sources of Energy” and set itself the aim of doubling the percentage of renewable energy to
12% by the year 2010. Industrial experience has been gained in the field of bioenergy, particularly in Scandinavia and
Austria, with biomass power stations. In the Swiss heating market, biomass, with a percentage of 10%, is the most
important renewable energy carrier, although mainly with small and very small power plants. The trend is increasing
and more and more even medium-sized and larger plants are being set up. The exploitation of biomass for energy may
become a new pillar for primary production. The European Commission estimates that, in the long term in Europe and with
improved energy efficiency, around one third of all energy will be able to be generated from renewable primary products.
10%ofSwisslandiscontaminated Due to the fact that land contaminated with harmful substances cannot or
can scarcely regenerate itself, it is important to deal with it very carefully; further damage should be avoided. Estimations
assume that around 10% of the total area of Switzerland is contaminated with at least one of the four heavy metals – lead,
copper, cadmium and zinc. All attempts to remediate this land in a gentle way with plants, like sunflowers, corn or tobacco,
have all ended in disillusionment. It will take centuries before a significant improvement can be seen.
Less fertilizer, fewer pesticides The trend towards the continued contamination of soil seems to have been
halted in Switzerland: the use of phosphorus mineral fertilizers has fallen by 75% in Swiss agriculture between 1990 and
2000; today its consumption is only half what it was in 1950. The use of nitrogen mineral fertilizer has also fallen by 14%
between 1990 and 1998 yet still lies considerably above target figures. The use of pesticides has also fallen by around 30%
in the last 10 years in Switzerland.
Agriculture The number of farms will continue to decline significantly due to the current economic climate whereas the
size of each farm is growing accordingly. Many abandoned areas will be overgrown with bushes and later become forests.
The Swiss Federal Research Insitute for Agricultural Economics and Land Engineering (Eidgenössische Forschungsanstalt
für Agrarwirtschaft und Landtechnik FAT) in Tänikon has developed scenarios for agricultural structural models. One of them
assumes that if agriculture is fully liberalised, then around one fifth of the cultivated land will either disappear or will for the
most part run to seed. However, there are also counter-trends: around 2,5 billion euros have been reserved for agricultural
research as part of the Seventh framework programme for research and technological development (2007 – 2013).
The aim is to achieve improved products and processes for sustainability, for biotechnologies and for the health and
well-being of humans and livestock. Perhaps an indication of a realignment between quality-based objectives and the
quantity-based aims that currently dominate?
26 The Green Book of Zurich
Environment and Trends
ForestsandwaterThe forest area in Switzerland is increasing at a rate of approx. 1,5 m2 per second, particularly in
the Alps. It is mostly due to encroachment upon unused agricultural land. This is a development that may possibly increase.
Around 42% of the groundwater zones in Switzerland lie within forests. Approximately 3,000 m3 of water forms under a
hectare of wood every year due to the infiltration of rainfall. Around 80% of drinking water comes from source water and
groundwater, a high percentage of it from sources within forests. Drinking water in Switzerland is generally excellent and
is almost never contaminated with undesirable impurities. Ecologically managed forestry supports the good quality of
water. The consumption of drinking water has fallen in Switzerland since 1981 from 500 to 400 litres per person per day.
Lightpollution–anewenvironmentalproblemExcessive artificial lighting at biologically wrong times
has a negative effect on the ecosystem and can damage the diversity of species. Scientists have established that in
lakes close to residential areas that are exposed to a lot of light, the species of algae and biocoenoses in the water
are disturbed. Trees in heavily lit areas often blossom earlier and are therefore exposed to a higher risk of frost,
or also keep their leaves in the autumn. With its “Plan Lumière”, the city of Zurich wants to prevent an increase in
the amount of light and undesirable light emissions by means of intelligent lighting and improved quality of light.
UnderstandingofNatureandenvironmentaleducation A relationship with Nature is no longer a matter
of course with younger generations. GSZ recognised this fact at an early stage and launched its Forest and Nature Schools
some 20 years ago. GSZ wishes to extend this provision and to create additional bridges between the urban population
and Nature.
Green laboratory for the city of education Nature-based teaching and research has a long tradition in
Switzerland and enjoys an international reputation. There is now new and attractive potential within education about
Nature thanks to restructuring in the education system. The Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich (Eidgenössische
Technische Hochschule Zurich ETH), University of Zurich, WSL, Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology
(Eidg. Anstalt für Wasserversorgung, Abwasserreinigung und Gewässerschutz EAWAG) and the Wädenswil and Rapperswil
Universities of Applied Sciences form a circle of nature-based and landscape-based education and research institutes. The
city of Zurich and the agglomeration form an attractive “Green Laboratory” for these issues right on their doorstep and
researchers are very interested in this.
Green is healthy A large percentage of the population is overweight today and the trend is rising. An increasing
lack of exercise among children and young people is particularly worrying. Modern society is suffering from well-known
threats harmful to health. The city of Zurich is developing a strategy for health promotion for its population and also for its
employees and regularly publishes a health report. Healthy eating, adequate green spaces, a connection with Nature, and
protection from environmental pollution are key aspects of this health promotion.
Various studies describe how people can relax and slow down more quickly in green spaces than in spaces where there
is no green. Hospital stays are significantly shorter if patients can look out into the green outdoors and fewer drugs are
needed. Students concentrate better in green surroundings and perform significantly better in their examinations.
The Federal Ministry for Health (Bundesamt für Gesundheit BAG) has produced its “Action Plan for the Environment and
Health” (Aktionsplan Umwelt und Gesundheit APUG) that admittedly was closed in 2007. Even Swiss universities have
taken up the issue. It will be interesting to see what new findings come from this.
HealthyeatingFresh fruit and vegetables taste better than fruit and vegetables from greenhouses. Meat from animals
that have been reared appropriate to ethical husbandry has been shown to be healthier than meat reared using conventional
production methods. BSE, bird flu and other epidemics are accelerating consumers’ demands for the designation of origin
of their food. The quality and freshness, animals reared according to species-appropriate husbandry, ecological cultivation
mehtods, short distances to market and expert advice are gaining in importance as a balance to the lowest price for food.
The public sector, with its strong market forces, can set the standard here to underpin this positive trend.
27The Green Book of Zurich
Environment and Trends
10,000fruittreesforZurich Over 80% of all standard high-stem fruit trees have disappeared in Switzerland over
the last 50 years. Traditional orchards and meadows with scattered fruit trees have been replaced by intensive cultivation
with dwarf trees. A large percentage of the fruit that we eat is produced on the other side of the planet. There are around
5,000 standard fruit trees in the city of Zurich, more than half of which are age-old. We intend to increase this number to
10,000 fruit trees in the medium term, thereby enriching the appearance of the landscape and biodiversity
Thewell-beingof animals is important The city’s involvement in the well-being of animals is pioneering in
many cases and this should remain the case. Livestock is reared predominantly in an exemplary manner. The Langenberg
Wildlife Park with its generous habitats and enclosures is setting new standards in the animal husbandry of zoological
gardens. The Wildlife Conservation Area in the city of Zurich has been in existence for 75 years; professional gamekeepers
look after and care for the wildlife.
The keeping of dogs in the city is a particularly challenging problem. Conflicts between dog-keepers and other visitors of
open spaces are inevitable. However, it is only a small minority of dog-owners who do not adhere to social ground rules.
By far the majority of dog-owners dispose of dog faeces in the bins provided for this purpose.
What is becoming problematic is a misconstrued love of animals, whereby people are starting to feed wild animals, like
foxes, pigeons and waterfowl.
Consumer behaviour in public spaces Littering, the unpleasant habit of dropping waste or leaving it lying
around in public places, is becoming more widespread. The time, effort and cost of keeping open spaces clean continue to
increase and the manners to leave a place clean seam no longer to exist.
GreenandtransportTransport and open spaces have different demands that sometimes come into conflict with
each other and have to be properly coordinated. Green issues are well incorporated in transport planning and in the
mobility culture. The functional integration of pedestrian routes and hiking trails, as well as cycle routes, into the
system of open spaces is very important. Green space is duly taken into consideration in long-term transport strategies.
5 hectares of green space could be reclaimed by covering the motorway in the Entlisberg. A similar gain could be
obtained by enclosing the motorway in the Schwamendingen disctrict, and possibly also near the lakes Katzenseen.
Identification and tradition Thousands of bundles of wood for the annual “Sechseläuten” bonfire, firewood
auctions, the wood corporations’ and land associations’ voluntary services, farmers’ livestock shows, voluntary work by
bird watchers, the work of embellishment associations – all this is part and parcel of life in Zurich and ensures the strong
link between the population and their green spaces. The annual “Green tour” also helps to foster a link with the urban
landscape.
Integration in green spaces The work performed by asylum-seekers in looking after our green spaces,
intercultural groups on sports grounds, mixed groups in allotments and recreational gardens: this is how different groups
within society and cultures can be integrated naturally. People help each other, swap information, offer other
people home-grown vegetables – this is socio-culture being lived and breathed. It is a generally accepted fact that the
individualisation and loneliness of people in individual households increase their longing for social interaction and public
open spaces and green spaces provide an ideal platform for this.
Learning and jobs in the outdoors More apprenticeships, projects like JOB PLUS, community service,
supplementary job market, voluntary work are all important activities for the so-called “work integration”. Learning
opportunities and jobs outdoors offer practically skilled people, especially young people, opportunities to develop.
This is an additional and important social and socio-political role in maintaining our green spaces
Green and Open Spaces
31The Green Book of Zurich
Linking of subject areas within The Green Book, the Structure of GSZ and Sustainability
Urban Landscape
Green and Open Spaces
THE GREEN BOOK
Subject areas Page
Green and Open SpacesParks, squares and common land 37Designated open spaces 43Forests 65Agriculture 71
Basic principlesBiodiversity 79Environment 85
Environmental EducationGreen Knowledge 117> Nature Experience Park 128
The Company 135
STRUCTURE OF GSZ
Product Groups and Products
Understanding and promotion of naturePromotion of species and habitatsNatural forest / Sihl Forest
Natural areas / open spacesRecreational forestAgriculturePlanning of green / open spaces
Support products
Customer Groups
Researchers Recreational users Residents / workers Developers / planners
SUSTAINABILITY ( MONET )
Claims
Social solidaritySatisfaction and happinessDevelopments that take into account well-being
Economic performance Economic system in the service of the common good
Environmental responsibilityConservation of livelihoodConservation of biodiversityEcological balanceValues of the natural and cultivated landscape
Indicators
Social solidarityGeneral satisfaction with life Identity-forming environment Satisfaction with the residential environment Recreational amenities in the residential environment Participation options in local processes
Environmental responsibilityUtilised agricultural area (UAA)Diversity of agriculture and appearance of the landscape Separate building zones Diversity of land use and soil cover National nature reserves Ecological compensation areas
The population of Zurich appreciates its qualities, above all its diverse and varied urban
landscape and its attractive lakeside location. The easily accessible, high-quality urban open
space infrastructure and local recreational areas in the agglomeration play a major role in
the inhabitants’ good quality of life – they are an asset that must be secured inter-regionally
and must be further developed on a partnership basis.
Today…
32 The Green Book of Zurich
… the term urban landscape is used to describe the
interaction of developed and undeveloped space and its
topography. Zurich is very fortunate to have a very privileged
setting and an attractive landscape. The city nestles amidst
an outstanding backdrop of open space including large
bodies of water, hill ranges, forests and agricultural land.
Around 19% of the land area of the canton is included in the
Federal Inventory of Landscapes and Natural Monuments of
National Importance (BLN).
The topography and the diverse and varied landforms
provide a unique residential area and local recreational
amenity that is further enhanced by the backdrop of
the Alps. Zurich is very popular as a place to live and the
location of the city is often ranked in first place in public
opinion surveys in terms of its positive aspects.
Lake, riversandwoodedslopesUnlike many other
European cities, Zurich did not create a continuous green
belt when the baroque fortifications were razed to the
ground. The image of Zurich’s urban landscape is today
essentially shaped by Lake Zurich, the Rivers Sihl and
Limmat, by the wooded moraine hills – the Uetliberg,
Käferberg, Zürichberg and the Zimmerberg and by areas of
agricultural land, such as in Unter-Affoltern as well. The
urban space is divided up by large areas of open space,
such as the common land Allmend Brunau, allotment
gardens and the railyards of the main station, large
cemeteries and other landscape elements, like streams,
green belts and tree-lined avenues.
The urban landscape has a positive effect on the image of
Zurich. It gives a face to the different districts and plays
a key role in helping the inhabitants to identify with their
district of the city. Combined with the attractive range of
recreational amenities, it also improves the quality of life.
Residential areas on inclined slopes and close to forests
are particularly attractive, as is the presence of water. All of
these factors are assets that cannot be underestimated by
the city’s marketing department.
Active construction activity outside of thebuilding zones Many areas and elements that are
key for the cross-regional framework of open spaces are
currently secured by planning law but are coming under
increasing pressure by building development. Between
1970 and 1998, the volume of building on agricultural
and forestry land in the canton has risen by a third. Out
of the total building volume of 32 million m3, only 62%
was used for agricultural purposes in 1998. The massive
construction activity in the canton continues unabated
and, following the revision of the Spatial Planning Act
in 1999, is increasingly extending to areas outside of
the building zone. It is essential that the encroachmment
of the building zone across the canton is stabilised and
reduced to retained undeveloped rural countryside.
The most dominant influence on the appearance of the
landscape and on the loss of land is due to the transport
infrastructure.
Increasing regional cooperation The cantonal
structure plan is for the main spatial policy tool ensuring
spatial protection of the cross-regional open space
and the corresponding natural and recreational values.
Inter-community or inter-regional cooperation on the
planning of open spaces is not yet institutionalised today
but is more usually project-based, for instance as part
of Landscape Development Concepts (LEK) and Forest
Development Plans (WEP). Examples of this include the
regional Limmatraum Landscape Development Concept,
the Pfannenstiel Nature Network or the Sihl Forest
Development Plan. Negotiations are currently underway
with the Horgen local authorities for the joint development
of a Nature Experience Park in the Sihl Forest.
Urban Landscape Green and Open Spaces
I n 1 0 Y e a r s …
33The Green Book of Zurich
… Zurich will still be appreciated because of its outstandingly attractive urban landscape. The lake and rivers, the view
across the Alps, its urban open spaces and the cultivated and natural landscapes will provide a unique environment and
characterise the good quality of life in the city. The city’s surroundings will have a high quality framework of open spaces
that meet the need of the population, are well connected and ensure the large-scale ecological interlinking of habitats
of flora and fauna. The landscape will be much appreciated as public property. Thanks to inter-regional cooperation, the
valuable areas of landscape will be secured for the long term and will be developed in a very specific manner. The Nature
Experience Park will be a key component of this.
“Green” city on the waterfront The city’s green spaces will to a large extent form a functionally important
green belt around the city. Within the city, the streams, the large-scale open spaces, the linear green elements and the
geomorphology of the forested hills will form a striking framework of open spaces. This will shape the appearance of the
city and the green image of Zurich. The city’s marketing department will actively market the city using Its “green qualities”.
The district-specific open spaces and infrastructure – including, for instance, rows of trees, streams and front gardens – will
give the individual districts of the city an unmistakeable character. The population living in these districts will appreciate
the excellent quality of design and land-use. Proximity to water will be able to be experienced in many places. Attractive
locations on the slopes of hills or with views improve the quality of life. Different lines of sight and many view points will
create an exciting urban experience and will make it easier for people to find their way about.
Targeted development Edificial densification will guarantee that land is maintained in an sustainable manner
and will make use of the adequate existing reserves of building zone. The buffer zones and recreational zones within
the residential area will meet the increasing needs of the residential and working population for recreation, will provide
superior habitats for flora and fauna and will act as reserves for the land-use requirements of future generations.
The boundaries of housing developments to the open countryside will be carefully designed. The cultivated and natural
landscape will be attractive and characterised by typical local elements, for instance orchards, hedgerows or streams.
Structural intrusions by transport infrastructure work for instance, will be done carefully, taking into consideration the
appearance of the landscape and by weighing up all interests and benefits. The increase of buildings outside of the
building zone and built-up area will be minimal.
Urban Landscape Green and Open Spaces
34The Green Book of Zurich
Urban Landscape Green and Open Spaces
INDICATORS TODAY OBJECTIVES FOR 10 YEARS FROM NOW
BLN areasLand in the Federal Inventory of Landscapes and Natural Monuments within the canton of ZurichBased on 2006 figures
32,604 ha, 18,9% of the area of the canton, of which 702 ha are in the metropolitan area, 7,6% of the urban land area
Land retained, good quality of land
The structure plan of the Canton of ZurichBased on 2001 figures
80,507 ha are on agricultural land (46,6% of the land area of the canton)49,625 ha of forest (28,7%)1,815 ha of recreational area (1%)2,752 ha of nature conservation area (1,6%)of this:20,075 ha of landscape conservation area 69,329 ha of landscape redevelopment area
Implementation of structure plan, good quality of land
Structure plans relating to the City of ZurichBased on 2000 figures
946 ha of agricultural land (10,3% of the metropolitan land area)2,182 ha of forest (23,7%)619 ha of recreational area (6,7%)77 ha of nature conservation area (0,8%)of this:738 ha of landscape conservation area (8%)2,533 ha of landscape regeneration area (27,6%)18 ha of defined nature conservation (orchards)614 ha of ecological interlinking (6,7%)
Concerns enshrined in the structure plan Implementation of structure plan, good quality of land
Appreciation2003/2005 Public opinion survey
Public green space (parks, forest, agriculture):Importance 5,33 (out of a maximum of 6)Satisfaction 4,98 (out of a maximum of 6)72,6% very much like living in Zurich25,2% like living in Zurich1,9% do not like living in Zurich0,2% really do not like living in Zurich
Satisfaction corresponds to importance
High value retained
Buildings on agricultural and forestry land Based on 2004 figures
approx. 800 in the city of Zurich, 0,7% of the total building volume (cf. Canton of Zurich 5,9%)
Reduced
Distinctive elements in the landscape in the agglomeration, city and districts
little data available Retained, assured, enhanced
Landscape Development Concepts (LEK) and Forest Development Plans (WEP)
Adliswil Landscape Development Concept (LEK)Regional Limmattal LEK and communal Limmatraum LEKHönggerberg Affoltern LEK/WEP (in process)Uetliberg LEK/WEP (planned for around 2008–2010)Zürichberg LEK/WEP (planned for around 2010–2012)
Consensus for landscape development, planned LEKs and WEPs passed, measures being implemented
35The Green Book of Zurich
Our F ie lds of Act ion
Cross-local authority cooperationWe are involved in partnership-based, cross-local authority cooperation on the
planning of open spaces to conserve and enhance the overall framework of open space and appearance of the landscape.
Nature Experience Park We are developing the Nature Experience Park together with Horgen local authority,
the Canton and Pro Natura.
Participatory LEKs andWEPs We are developing the urban landscape with Landscape Development Concepts
(LEK) and Forest Development Plans or Open Space Concepts, taking into consideration the wide range of demands within
the framework of a sustainable policy for the agglomeration.
Distinctiveopenspaceelements We are developing basic principles for distinctive urban open space elements
and working towards retaining and reinforcing them.
Lakeside and riverbank We are developing and maintaining the land around the lake and the riverbanks as
image carriers and visiting cards for the city as a matter of priority.
Interconnections We are working towards the excellent networking of open spaces in the city and agglomeration,
both from an ecological point of view but also in terms of their use by pedestrians and cyclists.
BuildingdevelopmentWe are committed to ensuring that building development and redensification takes place
using reserves within the designated building zones and retaining the buffer zones and agricultural zones. Open spaces
and residential areas will by developed by fairly and transparently balancing all interests and benefits.
Public relationswork We will ensure that the importance of open space in terms of the urban landscape, image
and identification of the city is incorporated into all considerations of interests. We are working to persuade the public
to value their framework of open spaces.
LegalbasisWe are committed, within the framework of structure and land use plans, to the concerns of agriculture,
to forestry, the landscape, open space and recreational space, as well as to ecology, in particular to the formal protection
of sensitive rural land.
Urban Landscape Green and Open Spaces
37The Green Book of Zurich
Linking of subject areas within The Green Book, the Structure of GSZ and Sustainability
Parks, Squares and Common Land
Green and Open Spaces
Thanks to the wide provision of public multifunctional open spaces, Zurich is effectively a green
city with a wide and diverse range of recreational amenities. The areas around the lake are
the city’s calling card. The distribution parks varies among districts. In recent years additional
parks and squares have been created in the new residential and service areas.
There is constant pressure on land use on certain land requiring it to adapt to the needs of the
populations, particularly in the Brunau Allmend, by the lake and on the riverbanks.
SUSTAINABILITY (MONET)
Claims
Social solidarityMeeting needsPromoting healthSatisfaction and happinessDevelopments that take into account well-beingIntegration of disadvantaged peopleIntercultural and interpersonal understandingSocial and political participationChild-friendly surroundings
Economic performance Economic system in the service of the common good
Environmental responsibilityConservation of biodiversityEcological balanceValues of the natural and cultivated landscape
Indicators
Social solidarityMental well-beingHealth-relevant behaviour, physical activities General satisfaction with life Identity-forming environment Satisfaction with the residential environment Recreational amenities in the residential environment Option to participate in local processes
Environmental responsibility People affected by noiseResidential land in general and per head of population Diversity of agriculture and appearance of the landscape Separate building zones Diversity of land use and soil cover Ecological compensation areas
STRUCTURE OF GSZ
Product groups and products
Understanding and promotion of natureEducation / ExperiencesPromotion of species and habitats
Natural areas / open spacesParksPlanning of green / open spacesPlanning and construction of green and open spaces
ServicesConsultancy / Monitoring
Support products
Customer groups
Recreational usersResidents / workersSportsmen and womenDevelopers / planners
THE GREEN BOOK
Subject areas Page
Green and Open SpacesUrban landscape 31
Basic principlesProvision of open space 91Use of open space 97Design of open space andHorticultural heritage 103Participation and partnerships 109
Environmental EducationGreen Knowledge 117> Production and maintenance in harmony with nature 130
The Company 135
Today…
38 The Green Book of Zurich
… the population of Zurich considers the parks and squares
in the city to have a very positive effect on their quality of
life: green space and parks are among their three most
important needs. The frequency with which they are used
depends essentially on their location and accessibility.
Younger people, the inhabitants of the densely populated
districts of the city that lie close to the centre and families
with small children are the groups that use the parks most
frequently. The trend in society towards isolation further
increases the importance of parks and squares as places
to meet other people, communicate and to be active as
the open spaces promote encounters and encourage
interaction.
Satisfaction with parks has increased slightly since the 2003
public opinion survey. A good two-thirds of those surveyed
rate them as being good or very good. However, the survey
also indicated that the importance that the population
attaches to parks is greater than their satisfaction with the
facilities currently on offer.
Wide range There is a wide range of parks in Zurich:
Historical and modern parks, former villa gardens or oases
of nature in the countryside. Traffic-free or at least traffic-
calmed pedestrian zones and squares encourage people
to stroll along and spend time there and can double as a
market place or events location.
MajorsignificanceofthelakesideThe extensive
and attractive parks on the lakefront, with their historical
quay facilities that have been artificially raised, are the
most appealing of all open spaces. They represent the
city’s calling card. When asked about the positive aspects
of Zurich, in 2005 the population rated the location of the
city in first place, particularly its location on the banks of
the lake. The districts of the city that lie directly on the lake
use this facility most of all: 61% of the inhabitants of district
8 use them daily or several times a week. The lakeside
facilities are used by over two-thirds of the population of
the city, but also attract many people from outside of the
city – up to 100,000 visitors can be counted on nice spring or
summer days. The right bank of the lake serves as a regional
local recreational area. The satisfaction of users with the
lakeside facilities and their mutual acceptance is generally
very good. Over 90% of those surveyed admit that there is
adequate space available in summer. Individuals complain
about the lack of toilet facilities and eating facilities and a
lack of sufficient places for access to the water. Two-thirds
are satisfied with the police presence and feel safe. Over
60% of those surveyed are of the opinion that there is not
too much litter and over 70% are not troubled by it. Just
under half are troubled by dogs running freely, but almost
no-one is disturbed by dogs on leashes. There is large-scale
acceptance amongst locals of large events, like the Orange
Cinema or the Zürcher Theater Spektakel (Zurich Theatre
Festival), both staged on the banks of Lake Zurich.
Newparksandsquares Parks and squares and their
interconnection as a key element of urban development is
ensured when districts of the city are regenerated. Thus,
for instance, in the former industrial area of Oerlikon,
four new parks have been created within four years and a
privately-owned historical garden has been handed over
to the public authorities. The inhabitants already living in
these areas use these new parks as frequently as the rest
of the population of the city use their parks. Since 2003,
satisfaction levels have risen markedly and are now above
the urban average.
In West Zurich, the Turbinenplatz was created at the same
time and further areas of open space are currently being
planned. These massive improvements in the facilities on
offer have been made possible by year-long cooperative
planning.
The potential of the riverbanks The potential
of the banks of the rivers Sihl and Limmat have not been
exploited for many years. Thanks to the redevelopment of
the Letten area, the Wipkinger Park and the area around
the Gessnerallee, new and attractive, high-quality parks
have been created alongside the rivers. The inhabitants
of districts 1, 10 and especially 5 are the main users of
the riverside areas. The increasing needs of the users will
continue to keep exert pressure on the riverbanks and will
require further change.
The changing Brunau Allmend Brunau Allmend
offers the population a large area of attractive local
recreational space that is of regional importance. Three-
quarters of its users live in the city, with the majority living
in the adjoining districts. Demands from all sides have
increasingly led in recent years to conflicts, particularly
with dog-owners. The constantly increasing pressure on
land use, new transport infrastructures and the removal of
building site installations have caused GSZ to define the
type and scope of future land use by means of a process of
participation.
Parks, Squares and Common Land Green and Open Spaces
39The Green Book of Zurich
Parks, Squares and Common Land Green and Open Spaces
In 10 Years…
… the wide and varied range of public multifunctional open spaces will play a key role in maintaining the quality of life in
Zurich at a very high level when compared internationally. The high quality design of site-specific parks, squares, pedestrian
zones, riverbanks or common land will shape the urban landscape and play a major role in helping the population to
identify with their own district of the city. Public open spaces will be fundamentally accessible free of charge, will meet the
most diverse requirements and provide the inhabitants with adequate space for a range of different uses. The parks and
squares will be important meeting points in public life where people will like to spend time and this will enable them to
actively relax but also retreat or experience nature.
Waterside recreational space The lakeside parks will be Zurich›s most important and attractive parks and will
provide large-scale and well-tended recreational space with attractive access to the water, a range of experiences, a unique
view across to the mountains and city frontage, and an ideal infrastructure as well. The coexistence and cooperation of
different uses and events by and on the water will increase the quality of the experience and will be based on mutual
respect and coexistence without this impairing use by the public. In addition to the intensively used lake shore, the
riverbanks will also offer extensive high-quality recreational areas. Pedestrians, joggers and cyclists will be able to find
attractive and continuous linear connections on the riverbanks, as well as recreational areas with a high level of experience
and recreation.
DiversecommonlandThe Brunau Allmend will be used collectively, flexibly and in a diverse way and will be well
connected as a local recreational area directly adjacent to the edge of the city. The coexistence of different leisure activities
as well as specific key uses, like freestyle, will be popular and enhance the quality of recreation for a wide cross-section
of the population. The bounteousness of the landscape and the diversity and dynamism of nature will be able to be
experienced.
Parks create identification The district parks and squares will meet the population’s needs for recreation and
provide a high quality of use. The open spaces will be interconnected for an easy and safe accessibilty The parks will be
carefully further developed and adapted to the changing needs of the users together with the population according to
their needs – and will take into account their cultural and historical value. This will also apply to the innovative parks and
squares that will be created in the new residential and service districts and will belong to the city’s calling cards. The parks
and squares will characterise the appearance and image of these districts and will promote the residential and working
population’s identification with their environment. The population will feel at home and safe in its public open spaces.
High esteem Both the population, as well as landowners and political decision-makers, will be aware that parks
and squares play a major role in the quality of life in these districts and that they shape social development and the image
of the city – and that they will also be of significance for the monetary value of the adjacent property and for tourism as
a whole.
40The Green Book of Zurich
Parks, Squares and Common Land Green and Open Spaces
INDICATORS TODAY OBJECTIVES FOR 10 YEARS FROM NOW
Green areas or parks 2005 Public opinion survey
Importance: 5,44 (out of a maximum of 6) (Single parents: 6,00 / Families with small children: 5,74) Satisfaction: 4,83 (out of a maximum of 6)
Satisfaction corresponds to importance
ParksGSZ 2005 Balance of effects
Importance: 5,2 (out of a maximum of 6) Satisfaction: 4,8 (out of a maximum of 6) Importance of recreational value: 5,3 (out of a max. of 6) Satisfaction with recreational value: 4,7 (out of a maximum of 6)
Satisfaction corresponds to importance
Satisfaction corresponds to importance
Parks, squares and common land
361 parks of 129 ha44 ha of Green belts / recreational axes5 ha of Squares with a high amenity value around 100 ha of free land at the Brunau Allmend (without forests, shooting and sports facilities)
Retained, increased if necessaryRetained, increased if necessaryWide range to suit demandRetained
Lakeside amenities2005 User survey
Users:64% of the urban population in summer (75% in winter)of which 17% (38% in winter) come from districts 2 and 8
Frequency of use:68% of the urban population at least several times per month8% never
Dogs:43% are troubled by free-running dogs3% are disturbed by dogs on leads
Satisfaction of visitors with the police presence:67% are satisfied8% find it too little17% find it too much
Litter:Waste disposal is very good: 81% Volume of litter is too great: 35%Litter is a problem: 26%
Safety / Lighting:Over 90% of those surveyed feel safeLighting is good or very good: over 80%
Very high level of satisfaction with lakeside amenities retained
Sihl and Limmat riverbanks2005 Public opinion survey
Usage at least once per week:people living closer than 400 m: 53%people living further away than 1 km: 25%
Recreational value increased
New Parks in Oerlikon2003/2005 Public opinion survey
2003 survey: satisfaction 4,57 (cf. City of Zurich 4,63)2005 survey: satisfaction 4,95 (cf. City of Zurich 4,83)Satisfaction with parks among people living closer than 400 m:Very good: 34% (cf. City of Zurich 24%)Good: 45% (cf. City of Zurich 44%)Satisfactory: 18% (cf. City of Zurich 24%)Unsatisfactory: 3% (cf. City of Zurich 8%)
Above-average satisfaction retained
Brunau Allmend1999 Study of land use of common land
Visitors from the city of Zurich: 76%, of whichDistrict 2: 28%District 3: 39%District 4: 9% Age structure: 48% 26 – to 50-year olds
High value for urban population, especially for adjacent districts
Attractive range of uses for all age categories
41The Green Book of Zurich
Our F ie lds of Act ion
Emphasising the lakeside amenities We assign top priority to the lakeside amenities as image carriers for
the city and as the most frequently used park facilities. We are improving the linear connections along the lake shore and
access to the water. We are defusing conflicts within the lakeside areas by separation of uses on recreational land with
different focal areas and by the provision of a differentiated infrastructure and appropriate maintenance. We will retain
contemporary witnesses from the G 59 Exhibition of Horticulture as far as possible.
Enhancing of riverside areas We are carefully enhancing the riverside areas in accordance with our mission
statements and concepts by increasingly providing more open spaces that offer extensive recreational quality where
people like to spend time. We are improving the linear connections along the riverbanks and access to the water.
Commonland We are enhancing the extensive multifunctional character of the common land and creating focal uses
to defuse conflict. We are improving the accessibility of the Brunau Allmend and enhancing access and connected routes.
We are managing and looking after common land according to its use in order to promote natural experiences and enhance
its natural value.
ProvisionofnewdistrictparksWe are extending the provision of high-quality parks and squares in under-served
areas and implementing open space schemes in developing areas – also by the provision of public recreational space on
private land within the framework of Public Private Partnership projects. In order to enshrine their use in the district, we
are carrying out publicity work, involving, where possible, the population in the decision-making process and promoting
the holding of district-related events on the land.
Maintenance anddevelopment We are maintaining parks and squares to a high standard in accordance with
their use and are continuing to develop them carefully and in a targeted way based on maintenance plans.
Parks, Squares and Common Land Green and Open Spaces
43The Green Book of Zurich
Linking of subject areas within The Green Book, the Structure of GSZ and Sustainability
Designated Open Spaces
Green and Open Spaces
THE GREEN BOOK
Subject areas Page
Green and Open SpacesUrban landscape 31
Basic principlesBiodiversity 79Environment 85Provision of open space 91Use of open space 97Design of open space and Horticultural heritage 103Participation and partnerships 109
Environmental EducationGreen Knowledge 117> Production and maintenance in harmony with nature 130
The Company 135
STRUCTURE OF GSZ
Product groups and products
Understanding and promotion of natureEducation / experiencesPromotion of species and habitats
Natural areas / open spacesCemeteriesGreen in the streetsSchoolyardsSports groundsSwimming facilitiesExtensive green spacesPlanning of green / open spacesPlanning and construction of green and open spaces
Land / building management Leased land
ServicesConsultancy / Monitoring
Support products
Customer groups
Recreational usersResidents / workersSportsmen and womenLessees / tenantsDevelopers / planners
SUSTAINABILITY (MONET)
Claims
Social solidarityMeeting needsPromoting healthSatisfaction and happinessDevelopments that take into account well-beingIntegration of disadvantaged peopleIntercultural and interpersonal understandingSocial and political participationChild-friendly surroundings
Environmental responsibilityConservation of livelihoodConservation of biodiversityEcological balanceValues of the natural and cultivated landscape
Indicators
Social solidarityLife expectancy in good health Mental well-being Health-relevant behaviour, physical activities General satisfaction with life Identity-forming environment Satisfaction with the residential environment Recreational amenities in the residential environment Option to participate in local processes
Environmental responsibility People affected by noiseContamination of the soil with heavy metals and PAHSoil compaction Spatial requirement of flowing waterFine dust concentration Diversity of agriculture and appearance of the landscape Diversity of species Diversity of land use and soil cover Ecological compensation areas
Zurich has a balanced range of designated open spaces tailored to user needs, including
sports grounds, cemeteries or allotment gardens.
The different claims on land use are constantly changing and must also be accommodated
in the future. These designated open spaces should also increasingly meet different recreational
needs.
Today…
44 The Green Book of Zurich
… there is a very wide range of designated open spaces that
have a specific use and are not primarily for general public
recreational use and there is a great need for additional
space. This again and again creates conflicts of use as the
claims are often exclusive. Certain areas, like schoolyards
or cemeteries, are accessible to the public and provide the
population with additional recreational space. Other areas,
such as swimming facilities and allotment gardens, cannot
be freely used by everybody and are only accessible on
payment of an entry fee or membership of an association
of society.
Balancing interests and benefits is challenging when
creating, maintaining or changing the use of designated
open spaces. Securing the good quality of land use is a key
role of the GSZ.
Designated open spaces Green and Open Spaces
INDICATORS TODAY OBJECTIVES FOR 10 YEARS FROM NOW
City-owned designated green and open spaces
20 cemeteries around 6,900 allotments and recreational gardens46 sports grounds17 swimming facilities with green spaces 520 open-air grounds around schools and nurseries148 public playgrounds20,500 trees alongside roads and 44 km of hedges108 km of streams 8,5 ha of grounds around municipal hospitals (Waid and Triemli)27 grounds around elderly care homes10 grounds around care centres
Number and areas are meeting demands
Third party-owned designatedgreen and open spaces
Sports and shooting groundsAllotments and recreational gardensGrounds around hospitalsGrounds around elderly care homes7 cemeteriesGrounds around churchesZurich Zoo
Total surface area retained
Public use of designated open spaces
Different public usage is often prohibited Many synergies, high level of public recreational use, especially in under-served areas
45The Green Book of Zurich
… Zurich will have a broad, balanced, adequate and well-connected range of designated open spaces with a good quality
of land use. The provision will be based on current and proven needs. Should demand change, land use will be adapted
to a justifiable extent. Land use needs will be taken into account by fairly and transparently balancing legally protected
interests. Designated open spaces will be used, wherever possible, for other uses – especially for public recreation.
Designated open spaces Green and Open Spaces
In 10 Years …
Maintenance We are maintaining legally protected designated open spaces as buffer and recreational zones in favour
of a wide range of land use and as land use reserves for the coming generations.
Change of use We are examining conversion of designated open spaces based on qualified proof of use whilst
balancing interests and benefits.
Enhancing We are improving designated open spaces with regard to their public recreational use – especially in areas
under-served by recreational space.
Flexibility We are reacting flexibly and in a forward-looking manner to changing land use needs and new demands,
for instance by new types of sports.
Our F ie lds of Act ion
46 The Green Book of Zurich
Cemeter ies Today …
All of the 27 district cemeteries. are designed in line with
customers› wishes and are well maintained. Burials take
place in 25 cemeteries, 2 are no longer in use. 7 cemeteries
are operated by private individuals – often these are Jewish
cemeteries. Various forms of burial are possible in the
20 city-owned cemeteries, for instance burial of ashes in
a wood. Due to the increasing burial of urns in communal
graves, there is now less need for burial grounds. The
cemeteries are used and appreciated by the population as
parks for tranquil relaxation and contemplation.
The Funeral and Cemeteries Office is responsible for burials.
The Office cooperates with GSZ in a well-coordinated
manner to meet the needs of customers.
Designated open spaces Green and Open Spaces
47The Green Book of Zurich
Cemeter ies in 10 Years …
District cemeteries will offer the bereaved a contemplative environment full of piety. The provision of different forms of
burial will be based on social and cultural needs. Cemeteries will be carefully looked after and further developed as a
valuable cultural asset. The population will appreciate these expansive and quiet open spaces in harmony with nature
and will use them respectfully. The areas of cemeteries that will not be used for burials in the foreseeable future will be
available to the public as quiet and extensive areas of parkland. No commercial land use, no events inappropriate to the
surroundings will be allowed to take place there.
Designated open spaces Green and Open Spaces
Our F ie lds of Act ion
Adaptation to requirements We are continually adapting the range of burial options to the needs of the population.
Land use concept for reserve land Together with the Funeral and Cemeteries Office, we are developing
a concept for the careful management of land no longer needed for burial and for reserve space.
INDICATORS TODAY OBJECTIVES FOR 10 YEARS FROM NOW
Number of cemeteries, ownership
27, of which:20 are city-owned (1 unused)7 are privately-owned (1 unused)
Extent of city-owned cemeteries
121 ha Retained
Burials in city-owned cemeteries Based on 2005 figures
Burials: approx. 3,400, of which:around 600 are burialsaround 2,800 are burials of urnsCommon graves: 31%Percentage of cremations: 84%
Provision to suit demands
Forms of burial Possible burial in 14 classes of graveThe most important of these are: (burials in 2005)Family graves – leased graves (260)Burial row graves (638)Urn row graves (854)Urn niches (251)Common graves (1,106) Ash burials in the wood (60)
Different forms of burial retained to meet demands
Number of graves Based on 2005 figures
59 000
AppreciationGSZ 2005 Balance of effects
Importance of cemeteries in the district: 5,7 (out of a max. of 6) Satisfaction with cemeteries: 5,7 (out of a max. of 6)
Satisfaction corresponds to importance
48 The Green Book of Zurich
The areas of allotments and recreational gardens in the city
of Zurich make up around 250 hectares and around 6,900
individual gardens. The 78 areas of allotment gardens
are leased by the Local Allotment Gardens Associations,
which manage their allocation and use. Since 1995, their
maintenance and production in harmony with nature is
regulated by an Administrative Regulation (VVO) and is
adhered to for the most part. Soil examinations have been
conducted on various allotments and the risks evaluated. In
a small number of individual cases alterations of use were
needed.
The recreational gardens are leased out directly by GSZ.
While allotment gardens are primarily aimed at horticultural
use, there is a wide range of uses in recreational gardens.
The sizes of the plots of land vary and the percentage of
extensively used land is higher. Allotments and recreational
gardens are coming under pressure again and again by
urban development and the desire for conversion. The
“Allotment Master Plan” highlights the situation and
potential for development.
A l lotments and Recreat ional G ardens Today …
Designated open spaces Green and Open Spaces
49The Green Book of Zurich
Allotments and recreational gardens will offer lessees needs-oriented, varied options for use for cultivation and relaxation
and will have a socio-integrational effect. Thanks to paths and recreational areas, the open areas will enhance the scope
of recreational land available for the population of the district. The allotment areas will be visible and the elements in
them, like garden sheds, hedges or fruit trees, will be well integrated into the overall appearance of the landscape. These
areas that are managed solely in harmony with nature, with their wide and varied structures on a small space, will make a
significant contribution to flora and fauna as ecologically very high-quality habitats.
A l lotments and Recreat ional G ardens in 10 Years …
Designated open spaces Green and Open Spaces
Our F ie lds of Act ion
Enhancing the land use options We are committed to ensuring that the gardens provide the lessees with a
broad and varied range of uses and offer the population as a whole with an enhanced recreational value.
Needs-orientedprovision Where there is a proven requirement, we are replacing legally secured areas released
for other land uses, after evaluating the legally protected interests.
Gardening in harmony with nature We are supporting gardening in harmony with nature by expanding
relevant training and advice sessions. The Administrative Regulation (VVO) guidelines are a mandatory element of
the lease contracts.
Clarification of cooperation We are regulating future cooperation together with the Local Allotment Gardens
Associations.
INDICATORS TODAY OBJECTIVES FOR 10 YEARS FROM NOW
Allotment garden areas 145 ha, of which 90% is legally zonally secured Secured land retained
Recreational garden areas 40 ha, of which 88% is legally zonally secured Secured land retained
Other leased-out land 55 ha (meadows, club grounds, nurseries etc.)
Number of lesseesFigures based on 2004 Master Plan
6,033 in allotments385 in recreational gardens375 in other leased land
needs-oriented, “Allotment Master Plan”implemented
Number of fruit trees not recorded Number of fruit trees corresponds at least to the number of gardens
Public paths in accordance with Communal Transport Structure Plan
not completed in 5 allotment garden areas Implemented in all allotment garden areas
Management of green areas in harmony with naturein accordance with the Administrative Regulation (VVO)
Guidelines are attached to lease contract Guidelines are a mandatory part of the contract
50 The Green Book of Zurich
Sport and exercise in the open air – irrespective of whether
this is done alone or organised – has an important role to
play in the city and is heavily promoted. Individual sports,
like cycling, jogging or toboganning, are popular and green
spaces and forests provide excellent locations for this. Not
all needs can be fully met in the city however.
GSZ has created and looks after around 200 sports
grounds, half of which are football pitches or tennis courts,
with a total area of approx. 70 hectares on behalf of the
Office for Sport. Due to the fact that the needs of sports
enthusiasts are constantly changing, alterations of use, for
instance of tennis courts, are needed from time to time.
New sports facilities for popular amateur sport are being
planned. Intensive care of lawns and innovative advances,
like Astroturf pitches and courts, enable far above-average
frequency of use. With larger sports grounds, for instance
at Hardhof or Buchlern, the environment is designed in
such a way that it can also be used for recreation at times
when little sport is being played.
Many of the private sports facilities, especially corporate
sports grounds, are currently undergoing a change of use,
increasing pressure on public facilities.
It is possible to swim at various locations along Lake Zurich
or the Katzen Lake as well as in the River Sihl and Limmat.
The banks require intensive management due to the heavy
use. The city of Zurich has a total of 17 summer swimming
facilities spread across the entire city, with 14 being located
in park-like green spaces. Two of the open-air pools are
managed by private operating companies. The remainder
are managed by the Office for Sport when they are in use
and by GSZ outside of the swimming season. In the colder
months, the Mythenquai and Tiefenbrunnen lidos are open
to the public as parks. Six swimming facilities constitute
valuable horticultural heritage gardens.
Spor ts Grounds and Swimming Faci l i t ies Today …
Designated open spaces Green and Open Spaces
51The Green Book of Zurich
Thanks to their high standards, the sports facilities will provide excellent facilities for elite sport as well popular
amateur sport. Changing needs will have to be accommodated constantly; new up-and-coming sports will be
supported where this is possible and feasible. Equipment for specific uses will be reversible and, where possible, will
be erected only temporarily. Large sport facilities will also meet the needs of the population at large for recreation.
The green spaces in the swimming facilities will be well-managed, safe and meet the needs of the users during the
bathing season. Outside of the bathing season, they will whenever possible be made available to the population as
parks, particularly the facilities along the lakeside and along the Limmat riverbank. The swimming facilities that also
double as horticultural monuments, will be carefully looked after and further developed as a valuable cultural asset.
Spor ts Grounds and Swimming Faci l i t ies in 10 Years …
Designated open spaces Green and Open Spaces
Our F ie lds of Act ion
Meetingneeds We work closely together with the Office for Sport in order to meet the proven needs and guarantee
intensive use. We support the implementation of the Sport Facilities Strategic Report and the Sports Concept.
Opening for winter use We are adapting the swimming facilities on the lake and rivers to the requirements
of winter use.
INDICATORS TODAY OBJECTIVES FOR 10 YEARS FROM NOW
Number and land areaBased on 2006 figures
17 swimming facilities, of which 14 have green land (24 ha)
46 sports facilities (151 ha), of which:
Football pitches (61 ha): 83 regulation playing fields, 25 smaller training pitches
Tennis courts: 92 courts run by the public authorities, 12 courts run by third parties
Needs-oriented, winter use implemented, at least with lakeside and riverside swimming facilities
Provision oriented on demand where possible, Sport Facilities Strategy Report implemented
Annual frequency of use of sports facilities for trainingor competitions
approx. 630,000 on grass fieldsapprox. 130,000 on tennis courts
High frequency of use per facility
Annual frequency of use of summer swimming facilities
over 1 million entries Retained Facilities with a good quality of use
52 The Green Book of Zurich
GSZ operates and manages 148 public children’s play-
grounds in parks, in community centres or in forests
and around 490 playing areas in sports facilities and
schoolyards. These facilities supplement the recreational
space and play areas in the immediate vicinity of children’s
and young people’s homes. Traffic-calmed streets are other
areas that may be used by children and young people. Play
is actively permitted in streets that have been declared
meeting zones. It has been shown that in high-density and
heavily-used residential areas, the need for playing areas is
not always adequately met – this is the case, for instance,
with the Limmat West residential development.
The grounds around 120 public schools and 400 kinder-
gartens within the city of Zurich provide facilities for
children and young people for play, sport and meeting
up during break times. Under the “Natur ums Schulhaus”
(Nature Around Schools) initiative, around 40 facilities
have been assessed as being fit for purpose since 1991. Out
of school hours, these facilities are open to the public. The
open spaces around schools and kindergartens are being
reduced due to expansion of school buildings; at the same
time the need for use is increasing.
P laygrounds and Schoolyards Today …
Designated open spaces Green and Open Spaces
53The Green Book of Zurich
The surroundings of private homes will largely meet the needs of children and their parents. In addition to this, public
playing fields and schoolyards will offer valuable space for play, exercise and adventure for children and young people
and places for their carers to meet up. The play equipment will meet safety standards.
All traffic-free public green spaces and open spaces will be able to be played on in principle. Meeting zones in residential
estates and around schools will ensure freedom of movement and will be able to be used as places for play and to meet up.
The grounds of schools and kindergartens will offer children and young people an adequate, varied and safe environment
to learn and exercise in with a high quality of experience. The attractive play and sports facilities adjacent to schools
will be actively used by the population beyond of the school day.
P laygrounds and Schoolyards in 10 Years …
Designated open spaces Green and Open Spaces
Our F ie lds of Act ion
Adequate and safe playgrounds Where possible, we are meeting the needs for children’s play in densely-
populated districts of the city and are complying with EU safety standards for play equipment in public facilities. We are
providing advice to promote play equipment in private residential areas.
Enhancing schoolyards and kindergartens We are improving the grounds of schools and kindergartens to
meet specified needs to provide an attractive, educational environment for play, sport and education that is also attractive
to the inhabitants of the district.
INDICATORS TODAY OBJECTIVES FOR 10 YEARS FROM NOW
Number and area of open spaces around municipal schools and nursery schools
520 facilities, 89 ha Retained to meet demands
Quality of open spaces around municipal schools and nursery schools
Guidelines available Guidelines implemented project-specifically
Municipal playgrounds 148 public playgrounds, of which15 are located in community centres
Needs-oriented, high quality of experience
Play equipment in municipal facilities and nursery schools
approx. 660 are in children’s playgroundsapprox. 1,470 are in school/nursery school grounds
Needs-oriented, high quality of experience, safety standards met
AppreciationGSZ 2005 Balance of effects
Public playing fieldsImportance: 5,2 (out of a maximum of 6) Satisfaction: 4,6 (out of a maximum of 6) Number of playgrounds in the residential environmentImportance: 5,3 (out of a maximum of 6) Satisfaction: 4,2 (out of a maximum of 6)
Satisfaction corresponds to importance
Satisfaction corresponds to importance
54 The Green Book of Zurich
Traffic-calmed streets and squares are important areas in
which people can meet up. With schemes to relieve traffic
congestion, the edges of streets are often dismantled to
enhance the quality of movement and encounters. Existing
trees and front gardens characterise a district, but often
come under pressure from construction development and
transport infrastructures.
There are around 20,500 trees lining the roads in Zurich’s
public spaces, with evergreens, perennials, flowering
shrubs or wild plants sprouting up in borders covering
an area of just under 50 hectares. They improve the
microclimate by binding dust and providing shade.
Regrettably they are often misused for the disposal
of litter and fouling by dogs. Around 350 old trees are
replaced by new young trees every year and a further
300 new trees are planted to achieve the “Alleenkonzept”
(Tree-Lined Avenue Scheme) and provide a sustainable age
structure. Increasingly new pests and diseases are coming
to light that also have a negative effect on the health of
already dilapidated trees. GSZ largely avoids the use of
chemicals to combat pests and aims to encourage the life of
the trees, where possible, with large tree beds and a good
soil substrate.
Experiences with grassed tram tracks have shown that
they attenuate noise and bind fine dust.
Green in the Streets Today …
Designated open spaces Green and Open Spaces
55The Green Book of Zurich
The good design of street space and pedestrian zones will guarantee their excellent quality for all users. Streets will offer,
where possible, high quality space to spend time in and attractive routes for cyclists and pedestrians, in coexistence with
motorised traffic.
Individual trees, tree-lined avenues, borders and front gardens along the streets, as well as the many grassed tram
tracks, will shape the urban landscape and the design and identity of the individual districts. They will promote a sense of
well-being in the city and improve the microclimate. The trees lining the streets will enjoy good growing conditions and
will be healthy.
Green in the Streets in 10 Years …
Designated open spaces Green and Open Spaces
Our F ie lds of Act ion
Tree planting We are implementing the Tree-Lined Avenue Scheme and attach great value to the use of trees appropriate
to the habitat and compatible with an urban environment.
Upkeep of green spaces in the streets We are maintaining hedges, borders and groves along the streets and
are managing them in harmony with nature. We support the construction of grassed tram tracks in accordance with the Zurich
Public Transport Operator’s (VBZ) inspection plan.
Front gardens in the districts By advising private landowners, we are working towards ensuring that front gardens
retain their distinctive formative structures.
Recovery of recreational space We work in an interdisciplinary manner when deconstructing heavily used streets
in favour of higher quality recreational space.
INDICATORS TODAY OBJECTIVES FOR 10 YEARS FROM NOW
Number of trees lining streets 20 500 Tree-Lined Avenue Scheme implemented
New plantings per year around 300 Tree-Lined Avenue Scheme implemented, tree species compatible with the urban environment
Replacement trees per year 350 Healthy tree stock
Hedges 44,2 km, of which 12,7 km are cut Retained
Borders 142,584 m2, of which 821 m2 are perennials Retained
Groves 55 749 m2 Retained
Grassed tram tracks 41 627 m2 Increased, Zurich Public Transport Operator’s (VBZ) Concept implemented
Street spaces Implementation of Mobility Strategy and Tree-Lined Avenue Scheme, and “2010 Urban Space” strategy planned
Strategies and GSZ concepts implemented, highest quality space in which to spend time
56 The Green Book of Zurich
A total length of 108 km of streams run through the
metropolitan area, 64 km of which run through forests
and 34 km through residential areas. The municipal
Stream Concept has the intention of opening up as many
culverted streams as possible – since 1998 over 16 km
have been opened up, creating attractive natural and
recreational spaces. A further 10 km are still in culverts.
GSZ also manages the banks of the streams on behalf of
ERZ, the Zurich Disposal and Recycling Services. Some
streams do not yet meet flood protection requirements.
The Disposal and Recycling Services are continually
working to reduce this risk with its renovation programme.
The areas of river under the care of the Canton were,
up until recently, only accessible in parts and were only
accessible to a limited extent for recreational use. By
developing an overall concept with targeted renaturation in
conjunction with the cantonal authorities, as was the case
with the Werd Island, Wipkinger Park and the Letten area
or the Gessnerallee, considerable improvements have been
made in terms of their recreational use. Further projects,
such as the “Sihlallmend” in the Brunau common land or
the “Auenpark” in Altstetten, are in preparation.
The quality of water in the rivers has improved. The issue of
flood protection is still very topical, as individual sections
of the rivers Sihl and Glatt are not adequately constructed.
The freeboard is also inadequate along certain sections
of the Limmat; however regulation of Lake Zurich should
prevent larger-scale damage. The Canton Risk Map that is
currently being prepared shows the potential dangers from
flooding and forms the basis for further action. Climate
change and increasing soil sealing are resulting in flood
protection becoming more important.
Watercourses Today …
Designated open spaces Green and Open Spaces
57The Green Book of Zurich
The rivers and streams in the city of Zurich will provide attractive and easily accessible recreational spaces and places to
experience nature close to clean water. They will provide habitats of excellent quality and will play a major role for ecological
interconnections . They will shape and divide up the urban landscape and the districts of the city. Flood protection will have been
solved in accordance with the individual situations. The design and upkeep of the rivers and streams will be based on the needs
of safety, recreational values, ecology and efficiency.
The streams in the city of Zurich will run openly wherever this is possible and sensible. The potential of the surroundings of
the rivers Sihl, Limmat and Glatt for the quality of life, urban landscape and environment will be used.
Watercourses in 10 Years …
Designated open spaces Green and Open Spaces
Our F ie lds of Act ion
Management of streams Working closely with the Disposal and Recycling Services, we are developing a scheme
for stream management in residential areas and in forests. There is a maintenance plan for every stream.
Enhancing river environments By means of Landscape Development Concepts and overall schemes, we are
developing interdisciplinary concepts for improving river environments and, together with the Canton, are implementing
projects like the “Sihlallmend” and “Auenpark”.
INDICATORS TODAY OBJECTIVES FOR 10 YEARS FROM NOW
Streams 108 km of streams:64 km in woods44 km in residential areas, of which 34 km are open streams
Retained, Stream Concept implemented
Upkeep and enhancingof streams
The Stream Concept has been produced, streams in woods are recorded in detail
Stream Concept implemented, a care plan has been produced for every stream
Enhancing of rivers within the city area
Limmat: overall concept, Landscape Development Project and “Auenpark” project have been producedSihl: overall concept and “Sihlallmend” project have been producedGlatt: Glattraum Schwamendingen study has been produced
Concepts implemented, high qualityConcepts implemented, high qualityOverall scheme developed, enhancing being implemented
59The Green Book of Zurich
Linking of subject areas within The Green Book, the Structure of GSZ and Sustainability
Liv ing and Working Environment
Green and Open Spaces
Our living and working environment has enormous significance for the quality of life and
property values. However the quality of land use and recreation is very varied.
The densification of urban districts that is being pursued, puts the corresponding open
spaces under some pressure.
SUSTAINABILITY (MONET)
Claims
Social solidarityMeeting needsPromoting healthSatisfaction and happinessDevelopments that take into account well-beingIntegration of disadvantaged peopleIntercultural and interpersonal understandingSocial and political participationChild-friendly surroundings
Environmental responsibilityConservation of livelihoodConservation of biodiversityEcological balanceValues of the natural and cultivated landscape
Indicators
Social solidarityLife expectancy in good health Mental well-beingHealth-relevant behaviour, physical activities General satisfaction with life Identity-forming environment Satisfaction with the residential environment Recreational amenities in the residential environment Option to participate in local processes
Environmental responsibilityPeople affected by noiseResidential land in general and per head of population Diversity of agriculture and appearance of the landscape Separate building zones Diversity of species Diversity of land use and soil cover Ecological compensation areas
THE GREEN BOOK
Subject areas Page
Green and Open SpacesUrban landscape 31
Basic principlesBiodiversity 79Provision of open space 91Use of open space 97Design of open space andHorticultural heritage 103Participation and partnerships 109
Environmental EducationGreen Knowledge 117> Teaching methods 120> Production and maintenance in harmony with nature 130
The Company 135
STRUCTURE OF GSZ
Product groups and products
Understanding and promotion of naturePromotion of species and habitats
Natural areas / open spacesPlanning of green/open spaces
ServicesConsultancy / MonitoringServices to other bodies
Support products
Customer groups
Recreational usersResidents / workersDevelopers/planners
60 The Green Book of Zurich
Today …
… the city of Zurich has many districts with extensive private
and semi-public open spaces. The recreational areas within
the living and working environment are greater than the
public and designated green and open spaces within the
residential area. In many cooperative and municipal housing
estates, the quality of the living environment has improved
significantly in recent years, thanks to specific structural
renovations. Private and semi-public open spaces are
coming increasingly under pressure as inward residential
densification is needed for sustainability in terms of spatial
planning. The Bau- und Zonenordnung BZO (Building and
Zoning Ordinance) indicates greater or lesser potential for
redensification in each different district.
Keyfactorforthequalityoflife The quality of housing
is a key factor in determining the quality of life, as indicated
by the 2005 Public Opinion Survey. The inhabitants of
Zurich rate their living environment in first place on a scale
of importance in terms of their quality of life, together with
public transport. Their level of satisfaction is slightly lower
than the importance rating, but all of 92% are nevertheless
satisfied with their living environment. A reduction in the
quality of private and semi-public open spaces would
therefore have a significant effect. Justification for moving
to another district is more often than not cited as being
because of the living environment. Traffic and traffic
noise have a negative impact on the inhabitants’ level of
satisfaction.
Importance of the living environment The
living environment plays a decisive role in the choice of
residential area particularly for less mobile groups of
people, such as older people or single parents with small
children. Various indices show that the importance of the
living environment will increase further in the next few
years. This is also because the percentage of older people
and the unemployed among the total population is on the
increase owing to demographic and social developments.
The environment influences the image andreal estate prices The environment is not only
important for the residential population but also for the
working population. Companies are increasingly attaching
value to a good working environment; on the one hand it
provides their employees with valuable recreational space
but also makes a key contribution to a company’s image. The
environment generally has a decisive influence on the value
of a property; increasingly, landowners are marketing their
residential projects on the basis of the living environment
Understandinghas increasedGSZ can only exert
limited influence on the quantity and quality of new private
and semi-public open spaces, as the corresponding legal
basis is not in place. The success of consultancy often
depends on the understanding of the builder within the
building permit process. In comparison, the influence
that can be exerted with special land use plans and large-
scale construction is enshrined in law. The understanding
for the importance of design quality amongst planners
and builders has grown significantly in recent years – as
demonstrated by good examples, such as the Regina-Kägi-
Hof, the Röntgenareal and many others. Competitions and
studies are now increasingly held for construction projects
of this magnitude and importance to ensure the quality of
the environment, and often GSZ and landscape architects
are involved on the jury.
Living and working environment Green and Open Spaces
In 10 Years …
61The Green Book of Zurich
… the living and working environment in a greener Zurich will play an important role in the overall excellent image of
the city and will play a key role in the exceptionally high quality of life of the people who live and work in the city. Every
district will have an unmistakeable character, which will lead to the inhabitants having a stronger sense of identity with
their environment. Zurich will be an attractive residential location especially for families.
Recreation and relaxation right on the doorstep In areas where there are very few public open spaces,
the living environment will play a key role in providing the inhabitants with adequate opportunities for recreation and
relaxation and valuable places to meet up socially. The majority of the inhabitants of the city will be able to experience
nature just outside their front doors. Private and semi-public open spaces will be able to be used in many different ways for
recreation and will invite people to simply spend time there. They will be attractively designed, safe and environmentally
valuable. The streets in the various districts will improve the quality of life as they play an important role in encouraging
people spending time there, as children, in particular, will be able to play safely and unaccompanied directly adjacent to
their homes. Dedicated traffic calming measures, such as speed limits or meeting areas will be introduced across the city.
Dedicated redensification If redensification is to take place in districts, this will be of a high quality in terms of
the design and use of open spaces and the environment. The most valuable private and semi-public open space elements
that shape the character of a district, such as trees or front gardens, will be maintained and green spaces will therefore be
as freed as possible from basements or underground car parks. The living environment and surroundings of the residential
buildings will be designed to a high quality in new-build projects. The inhabitants, landowners and planners will recognise
the importance of the living and working environment for the quality of life, image and property values.
Living and working environment Green and Open Spaces
62The Green Book of Zurich
Living and working environment Green and Open Spaces
INDICATORS TODAY OBJECTIVES FOR 10 YEARS FROM NOW
Appreciation 2005 Public opinion survey
Importance for the quality of housing and life:1st place: Living environment 5,6 (out of a maximum of 6) 1st place: Public transport 5,6 (out of a maximum of 6) 3rd place: Green areas and parks: 5,4 (out of a maximum of 6) Satisfaction: 5,1 (out of a maximum of 6),92% are satisfied with their living environment
Satisfaction corresponds to importance
Living and working environmentfor recreational purposesProvision of Open Spaces by
the City of Zurich in 2005
1,560 ha (without transport development and car parks) High quality of use; land is retained in areas under-served by public recreational space
Quality-based processes for the living and working environment
No data available Data is available High percentage with a good influence, particularly in under-served areas
Quality-based renovationprojects in the residential environment with municipal housing estates and community housing
No data available Data is available High quality, especially in under-served areas
Building applications for the living andworking environment
No data available Data is available Building applications are resulting in a higher quality of open spaces amongst completed buildings
Open space elements that characterise a district
Analysis only available for the individual districts Analysis available for key districts, Formative elements in open spaces are retained
Tempo 30 (Speed 30)Based on 2004 figures
120 zones legally introduced across the city, structural implementation under the control of the Civil Engineering Office TAZ
Where possible throughout all of the streets in the districts
Zones for meeting up 23 zones existing, 4 others will follow in 2006Introduction and implementation under the control of the Civil Engineering Office TAZ
promoted, especially in the living environment, around school buildings and in central areas
63The Green Book of Zurich
Our F ie lds of Act ion
Maintaining elements in open spaces We are maintaining and safeguarding elements in the residential
and working environment that shape and give character to a district – especially in those areas that are inadequately
provided with public open spaces.
Redensificationrequirements Based on the differing typologies, such as the garden city of Schwamendingen,
suburban block areas or less densely built properties on the Zürichberg, we define requirements for redensification
to maintain the key open space elements in the district.
CooperationWe offer advice in the enhancement of existing open spaces in residential and working environments
– particularly with municipal and community properties – and assist the Civil Engineering Office in improving streets in
the districts.
Quality We are aiming for a high quality of land use, good design and good environmental values when creating
new open spaces in residential and working environments.
Public uses We support public use of private open spaces, specifically in areas under-served by public open
spaces.
Reporting We are setting up a reporting process relating to the impact of advice in building applications and special
land use plans.
Public relationswork We are sensitising landowners, investors and planners to the importance of the residential
and working environment as a natural and recreational space and demonstrating its value for properties – particularly in
areas that are unders-erved by public open space.
Legalbasis We are working towards improving the legal principles by means of which the quality of the residential
and working environment can be influenced particularly in building permit processes.
Living and working environment Green and Open Spaces
65The Green Book of Zurich
Forestry
Green and Open Spaces
Forests are not only the largest area of publicly accessible open space in the city but are also
a diverse habitat that is managed in harmony with nature. The wooded hills shape the character
of the urban landscape of the city of Zurich. The forests will grow in importance as an attractive
recreational area in years to come. Moreover, the “Wildnispark Zürich” (Zurich Wilderness Park)
is a new type of Nature Experience Park close to the city.
THE GREEN BOOK
Subject areas Page
Green and Open SpacesUrban landscape 31
Basic principlesBiodiversity 79Environment 85Provision of open space 91 Use of open space 97Participation and partnerships 109
Environmental EducationGreen Knowledge 117> Communications methods 120> Nature Schools 122> Nature Experience Park 128> Production and maintenance in harmony with nature 130
The Company 135
STRUCTURE OF GSZ
Product groups and products
Understanding and promotion of natureEducation / ExperiencesGame rearingProtection of game / birdsPromotion of species and habitatsNatural forest / Sihl Forest
Natural areas/open spacesRecreational forestPlanning of green / open spacesPlanning and construction of green and open spaces
Natural productsForestry productsChristmas trees
ServicesConsultancy / MonitoringServices for third parties
Support products
Customer groups
Teachers / schoolchildrenResearchers Recreational usersResidents / workers Sportsmen and womenBuyers of goods
SUSTAINABILITY (MONET
Claims
Social solidarityMeeting needsPromoting healthSatisfaction and happinessDevelopments that take into account well-beingChild-friendly surroundings
Economic performance Promotion of researchEnvironmentally-friendly production
Environmental responsibilityConservation of livelihoodConservation of biodiversityConsumption limits for renewable resourcesEcological balanceMinimisation of environmental risksRegard for the time scale of natural resourcesValues of the natural and cultivated landscape
Indicators
Social solidarityLife expectation in good healthMental well-beingHealth-relevant behaviour, physical activities General satisfaction with life Identity-forming environmentOption to participate in local processes
Economic performanceEnvironmentally-based subsidies Expenditure for research and development
Ecological responsibility Market percentage of non-food products with “eco” labelsSoil compaction Spatial requirement of flowing waterFine dust concentration Diversity of agriculture and appearance of the landscape Diversity of species Diversity of land use and soil cover National nature reserves Ecological compensation areas
Linking of subject areas within The Green Book, the Structure of GSZ and Sustainability
Today …
66 The Green Book of Zurich
… around one quarter of the city area of Zurich is covered
by forests – forests are therefore the largest publicly
accessible open space. Around one half of the forest
belongs to various corporations, private forest owners, the
ETH – Zurich Science and Technology University and the
Canton. Work undertaken in private forests that is of benefit
for the public is supported by the public authorities.
Diverse funct ions of forests Forests fulfil
diverse and varied functions. They serve as attractive
recreational space for the population, provide protection
from natural hazards and are a valuable habitat for many
plants and animals.
However, forests have lost their importance as a supplier
of timber. The forests have a positive effect on the urban
climate and, thanks to the filtration effect of the soil and
their water sources, they act as a reservoir for the drinking
water supply system. They also help to protect against
erosion, rock fall and landslides and bind significant
quantities of nitrogen and fine dust as well.
The city forests are managed based on the criteria of the
Forest Stewardship Council FSC in order to fulfil their
various functions as best as possible.
Recreational forests Forests that can be easily
reached and are densely developed are an excellent asset
in terms of recreation and natural experiences. Half of
the people living in Zurich visit the forest at least once
per week, with older people visiting significantly more
frequently. When this figure is extrapolated, this means
that there are over 400,000 visits to the forests around the
city every week. A study indicated that that the majority of
visitors to forests in Zurich were prepared to pay 110 francs
for an annual entry ticket. Similar figures are also known for
other cities.
The most important motive for visiting a forest is to take
exercise in the open air and in natural surroundings. Visitors
regard the recreational function of forests as being very
important and are very satisfied with the current provision.
Around one half go on foot to the woods.
HabitatforanimalsandplantsAround 10% of the
total forest area is of particular value in terms of nature.
These are areas with protected or endangered species
of plants and animals and forest communities worth
protecting. The importance of forests as a habitat for wild
animals is increasing due to the continuous loss of open
land. The city has been a wildlife conservation area for
75 years, in which the care of the wildlife stocks is protected
by municipal gamekeepers, meaning that there is no free
hunting.
Timberharvesting The economical value of forests and
income from timber has fallen significantly in recent years.
Less valuable wood is used for energy in environmentally-
friendly wood-fired heating – for instance the zoo’s heating
system is fuelled in this way. The production potential of
forests is also no longer fully exploited in Zurich, something
that leads in part to large stocks of timber and an ageing of
existing forests. Earlier economic support of forest owners
by the Confederation and the Canton has been seriously
reduced.
It will be possible in future to charge the positive effects of
these forests to reduce greenhouse gases in implementation
of the Kyoto Protocol. This could improve the economic
balance of forests.
Increasing pressure on use In forests, as in other
green and open spaces, there are conflicts among
different groups of users and these disturb the wildlife. It
is very expensive to keep the forests clean and tidy. Acts
of vandalism are regrettably becoming more and more
frequent.
SihlForest–natural forest The 1,000 hectare Sihl
Forest, owned by and situated in the vicinity of the city,
is the largest continuous area of forest in the Mittelland
region of Switzerland. It has not been used for forestry
purposes for some years and is to be transformed into a
natural forest. Here the protection of natural processes and
the formation of nature is at the very forefront. The City of
Zurich also owns the Langenberg Wildlife Park, which is
based on a modern zoo concept.
A broad-based concept has been developed for the Sihl
Forest and the Langenberg Wildlife Park involving the
neighbouring municipalities and the Canton of Zurich,
along with other partners, to create a nationally recognised
Nature Experience Park.
Forest Green and Open Spaces
In 10 Years …
67The Green Book of Zurich
... the forests within the urban area will be meeting diverse and varied complementary requirements and functions.
The forests will be used for recreational purposes by the inhabitants of the city as well as providing habitat for native flora
and fauna, supply of timber and providing a protective function as a reservoir of water and climate regulator. The area of
forest will remain constant and the edges of the forest will be of superior environmental value.
The percentage of priority natural land, together with reserved land in the Nature Experience Park, will be aboveaverage, as
will be the diversity of species. The potential habitats at specific locations, such as moorland, will be sensitively exploited
with due care.
Stocks ofwildlife Forests will provide stocks of wildlife with good habitat conditions and adequate opportunities
to retreat. Disturbances to wild animals will have been reduced in the most important areas of habitat. The Silver Fir,
as an indicator of stock of wildlife, will be reproducing naturally with an adequate number of saplings and will be allowed
to grow without the need for protection against browsing damages by deers.
Activelytacklingdiverseclaimsforlanduse The recreational facilities in the forests will be needs-orientated.
Land use conflicts between various functions of the forests and between user groups will be tackled through participatory
processes and will thus be defused. Common aims will be defined using tools, like Landscape Development Concepts (LEK)
and Forest Development Plans (WEP).
Appreciation The inhabitants of the city will highly appreciate the forests; forests will serve as places where people
from all age groups can experience nature. The population will be aware of the litter problem and there will now be
significantly less litter.
Sustainablemanagement If private owners of forests undertake work that will benefit the public, they will receive
subsidies from the public authorities. Forests will be managed sustainably, based on the criteria of the FSC label, in close
collaboration between forest-owners and timber processors. The various types of wood will preferably be used economically
with short distances to market.
Tree species appropriate to the habitat and natural regeneration will be preferred, with larger regeneration programmes being
needed tor the upkeep of native species of trees, like larch and oak. Timber harvesting in the urban area will correspond at least
to the net growth of timber. Thanks to their reservoir function, forests will make a significant contribution to the CO2 balance.
“Wildnispark Zürich” The Sihl Forest and Langenberg Wildlife Park will be the jewels in a nationally recognised
Nature Experience Park. The adjacent forests of the Albis region and the Uetliberg will be managed in harmony with
nature and in this way will become part of the nature park. The coexistence of the protection of natural processes, species
protection, natural experiences and recreation will be possible with the aid of different land use zones. The “Sihl Forest”
cantonal protection order will be in force and the Sihltal road will be reclassified as a rural road in the Sihl Forest region.
The park centres in the Sihl Forest and in the Langenberg Wildlife Park will be well-known educational sites for people from
all age groups who are interested in nature.
Forest Green and Open Spaces
68The Green Book of Zurich
Forest Green and Open Spaces
INDICATORS TODAY OBJECTIVES FOR 10 YEARS FROM NOW
Area of recreational forest within the city boundary
2,231 ha, of which: City: 1,138 haConfederation/ETH Zurich: 192 haCanton of Zurich: 226 haCorporations: 449 haPrivate forest associations: 226 ha
Retained
GSZ forests outside of the city of Zurich
Sihl Forest forestry reserve: 1,070 haLangenberg Wildlife Park: 40 ha
Wildnispark Zürich as Nature Experiencee Park
Priority uses in the recreational forest within the city area
City ownership:Intensive recreation: 128 ha or 12%Management: 670 ha or 59%, of which Mittelwald 7 haPromotion of nature: 340 ha or 29%Other forest owners:no data available
Priority uses determined by LEK, WEP
Priority uses determined by LEK, WEPData is available
AppreciationGSZ 2004 Balance of effects
Importance of recreational value: 5,7 (out of a max. of 6) Satisfaction with recreational value: 5,3 (out of a max. of 6) Importance of the experience value: 5,3 (out of a max. of 6) Satisfaction with the experience value: 5,1 (out of a max. of 6) Importance of cleanliness: 5,6 (out of a max. of 6) Satisfaction with cleanliness: 4,3 (out of a max. of 6)
Satisfaction corresponds to importance
Satisfaction corresponds to importance
Satisfaction corresponds to importance
Use of the forest and edges of the forest2005 Public opinion survey
Almost daily: 8% Several times per week: 18%Once per week: 24%Several times per month: 20%Less often: 21%Never: 9%
High land-use retained
Wild animals within the urban area
Deers: approx. 240Foxes: approx. 1000Badgers: approx. 160Hares: approx. 60Wild pigs: approx. 25
Reduced, stocks compatible with habitatReduced, stocks compatible with habitatRetainedPromotedRetained
Paths and trails City of Zurich recreational forest: 253 kmSihl Forest and Langenberg Wildlife Park: 76 km
Adapted to needs, LEK/WEP implementedt
Specific infrastructures and equipment
In the city area:Trim trails and jogging trails: 10Bike trails: 3Camp fires: 150Benches: around 1,050 Viewing tower: 1Source taps: 342 (193 ha of forest in the water protection zone) Sihl Forest and Langenberg Wildlife Park:Camp fires: 17Benches: around 230 Viewing tower: 1Fountains with their own source: 20
Adapted to needs, LEK/WEP implemented
Wildnispark Zürich, operating concept implemented
Forest edges Around 130 km without crossing roads, of which approx. 20 km are of environmental value
Retained, high percentage with environmentally high-quality structure in accordance with LEK/WEP
Percentage of FSC management of the forests within the city area
In the city-owned forests: 100%In forests owned by others: 95%
100%100%
Annual timber harvesting In the city-owned forests: 8,970 m3, corresponding to net growthIn forests owned by others: 8,543 m3
At least net growthAt least net growth
Production of Christmas trees GSZ: 4,500 per yearOther forest owners: around 500
RetainedRetained
Streams in forests within the city area
64 km Retained
69The Green Book of Zurich
Forest Green and Open Spaces
Our F ie lds of Act ion
Enhancement of forest functions We are assessing and linking the different functions of the forests with
innovative approaches by means of Landscape Development Concepts (LEK) and Forest Development Plans (WEP) and
working closely with all affected parties to this end. The balancing of interests and benefits and the determination of
priority functions is done together with the owners of the forests.
Promotionofspeciesdiversity We are creating the possibilities for special locations with potential as particularly
good habitats, such as inclined moorland, the edges of forests and natural forests, by targeted maintenance and
management. We are looking after the forest edges in accordance with environmental specifications and preventing the
natural expansion of the forest area.
Timberharvesting We are using at least the net growth of the forest and involving the forest ownes and the wood-
industry enterprises for the regional marketing of the timber products, as economically as possible with short distances to
market. Within the framework of the City Council’s sustainability objectives, we are promoting the use of timber for energy
generation and for municipal buildings.
Forestry We are promoting forestry in harmony with nature with tree species appropriate to the habitat and working
towards healthy, vital tree stocks.
Wildnispark Zürich We are transforming the Sihl Forest and the Langenberg Wildlife Park into a national Nature
Experience Park. To this end, we are developing the required concepts and ensuring that the region and the canton are
involved. The development process of the Sihl Forest is accompanied and documented by research. We are developing the
park centres into recognised nature education sites.
PublicrelationsworkWe are promoting an understanding of the value of forests and creating a choice of appropriate
educational and experience activities.
71The Green Book of Zurich
Linking of subject areas within The Green Book, the Structure of GSZ and Sustainability
Agriculture
Green and Open Spaces
Approx. 10% of the surface area of Zurich is used by agriculture although this percentage
is declining steadily.
The landscape of meadows and fields shapes the character of the landscape with its changing
cultivated fields, hedges and fruit trees. The land is coming under increasing pressure by
rising competing claims for land use. Agriculture as the cost-effective management of green
spaces will essentially be provided in future by organic farming and exemplary animal rearing.
THE GREEN BOOK
Subject areas Page
Green and Open SpacesUrban landscape 31
Basic principlesBiodiversity 79Environment 85Provision of open space 91 Use of open space 97Participation and partnerships 109
Environmental EducationGreen Knowledge 117> Communications methods 120> Nature Schools 122> Production and maintenance in harmony with nature 130
The Company 135
STRUCTURE OF GSZ
Product groups and products
Understanding and promotion of natureEducation/ExperiencesPromotion of species and habitats
Natural areas / open spacesExtensive green spacesAgriculturePlanning of green/open spaces
Land / building managementLeased landAgricultural leasesLeased property
Natural productsAgricultural products
ServicesConsultancy/Monitoring
Support products
Customer groups
Recreational users Lessees/tenants Purchasers of goods
SUSTAINABILITY (MONET)
Claims
Social solidarityMeeting needsPromoting healthDevelopments that take into account well-being
Economic performance System-compatible market interventionEnvironmentally-friendly productionEnvironmentally-friendly and socially-acceptable consumption
Environmental responsibilityConservation of livelihoodConservation of biodiversityConsumption limits for renewable resourcesEcological balancePrecaution in the event of uncertaintyValues of nature and the cultivated landscape
Indicators
Social solidarityLife expectancy in good health Mental well-being Health-relevant behaviour, physical activities General satisfaction with life Identity-forming environment Option to participate in local processes
Economic performanceEnvironmentally-based subsidies
Ecological responsibility Utilised agricultural area (UAA) Organic agriculture Consumption of organic products Contamination of the soil with heavy metals and PAHSoil compaction Fine dust concentration Diversity of agriculture and appearance of the landscape Separate building zones Diversity of species Diversity of land use and soil cover National nature reserves Ecological compensation areas
Today …
72 The Green Book of Zurich
… Zurich is distinguished by the attractive coexistence of
managed agricultural land with a high degree of recreational
value on the one hand, and densely built-up residential
zones on the other hand. Approx. 10% of the city area is
used agriculturally by a total of 36 farms; 12 farms belong
to the city and are leased, with the exception of the Juchhof
which is run by GSZ, the Office of Parks and Open Spaces.
IntensivelyusedrecreationalspaceAgricultural land structures the agglomeration and
shapes the appearance of the scenery. The varied
meadows and arable land areas with their intact network
of field paths form also an attractive local recreational
space, the importance of which is constantly growing
due to structural densification in the residential areas.
With corresponding consequences: Even today there
is enormous pressure on agricultural land due to the
high level of visitors and the wide and varied demands
on land use. Contamination by dog dirt and litter make
management and livestock farming more difficult.
Ecological, species-appropriate, diverse The
majority of farms in Zurich combine animal husbandry
with arable farming. Utilised agricultural areas (UAA)
are fully managed in accordance with the Ecological
Proof of Performance (öLN), with a third of it managed in
accordance with the more demanding organic guidelines.
Animal husbandry on all farms complies, as a minimum,
with current animal welfare policies, with a majority
of productive livestock kept in loose housing sheds or
with run outs. Individual farmers mainly practise arable
farming, but also perform additional salaried work in
landscape management or grow special crops. There are
also specialist farms growing fruit, berries, vegetables
or grapes. Part-time farmers primarily keep suckling
cows, horses, sheep and small animals. Often farms work
together by maintaining machinery jointly, for instance,
or swapping products for direct sale on the farm. Many
farms are also successfully involved with projects,
such as “Schule auf dem Bauernhof ” (School on the
Farm) or “Offene Stalltüre” (Open Stall Doors) to foster
relationship to nature to the urban population. In terms
of health promotion, the raising of awareness and access
to healthier food production is growing in importance.
Favourablemanagementofland The agricultural
use of green spaces is a beneficial form of management for
the city. One reason for this are the direct payments from
the Confederation and Canton for specific environmental
work that can amount to almost half of the farms’ income,
as well as income from direct sales. However, prices for
agricultural products are continuously falling and are
matching EU prices, thereby increasing economic pressure
on the farms. In this situation, local farming, in harmony
with nature, that produces high-quality and healthy food
products pays for itself - as the relevant labels, for instance
ZüriChornBrot, promote the sale of these products. For
some farms, direct sales make up around one quarter of
their total income today.
Available farmland reduced The average size
of a city farm is above Swiss average. Owing to urban
development and agricultural policy, agriculture in Zurich
has had to accept significant losses of land in the last
10 years. The available farmland in the city area has fallen
by around 15% and the number of farms has dropped by
around 20%. A further reduction agricultural land and in the
number of farms is foreseeable.
The multifaceted Juchhof estate The Juchhof
fulfils many roles as a municipal farm. Its land serves as
a land pool for exchange and cannot therefore be farmed
organically. This guarantees the availability of farmland.
Milk and wine from the Juchhof are primarily sold in the
city. Arable farming produces cereal crops and the excess is
used as pig feed. The farm is carrying out pioneering work
in pig farming by fattening young boars without castration.
Agriculture Green and Open Spaces
In 10 Years …
73The Green Book of Zurich
… agricultural land, together with forests and other green spaces, will largely form a functionally important green belt in the
Zurich landscape perceived by the inhabitants. Orchards and hedgerows will characterise the open cultivated landscape.
As agricultural land presents a valuable reserve of productive land for coming generations, alterations of land-use will
always be done by carefully balancing all interests and benefits. Infrastructure installations for intensive agricultural use
will not be found in areas with an outstanding scenery.
Organicfarmingandanimalwelfare All agricultural land will be managed in an environmentally-friendly manner
adapted to the location in accordance with minimum Swiss environmental standards (öLN), an above-average percentage
will be managed in accordance with organic farming regulations. Animals will not only be reared in compliance with animal
welfare regulations but rather their care will be exceptional. No genetically modified organisms will be used on all farms
within the city area. Fruit will be used and agricultural products marketed within a close radius of the farm – by direct sale
on the farm or within municipal facilities, such as care homes for the elderly. The sale of these products will be assisted by
quality and product labels.
Healthpromotion The population will be aware of the importance of nutrition for their health and will have direct
access to healthy foods by the direct sale of organic products. GSZ will support the promotion of good health among
children and young people in Nature Schools and Schools on the Farm – by exercising in the open air and by practical
involvement in the production of food, for instance the joint production of fruit juice.
Versatilefunctionsoffarms Farms will be much appreciated by the inhabitants of the city. The farms will make a
significant contribution to Green Knowledge and allow people to experience nature in a meaningful way. Additional outlay
for environmental or community work will be compensated. Larger farms, often family-run, will form stand-alone economic
businesses. Part-time run qualified farms are reasonable as well and will be very desirable. Farmers will be aware of their
unique work as environmental land-users, as carers for the environment and service providers on the periphery of the city.
Economic conditions will dictate that, as entrepreneurs, they will find new and innovative opportunities for income, for
instance producing bioenergy or involvement with tourism. Marginal revenue land will therefore be able to be managed
in this way.
Juchhof estate As a municipal business, the Juchhof will be involved with agricultural production but will also
provide agriculturally-related services – for instance in the use of agricultural products, management of green spaces
and innovational socio-cultural services. The Juchhof will also act as a land pool, in that it will guarantee a high degree of
flexibility in the exchange of land which is in the interests of the city as a whole.
Agriculture Green and Open Spaces
74The Green Book of Zurich
Agriculture Green and Open Spaces
INDICATORS TODAY OBJECTIVES FOR 10 YEARS FROM NOW
Utilised agricultural area (UAA) within the city area
939 ha, of which: 2/3 municipal 1/3 private/Confederation / Cantons10 % within the building zone
Retained
GSZ-managed UAA outside of the city area
approx. 80 ha Land pool maintained
Ecological compensation areas (ECA)
177 ha or 18% of the UAA is used as ecological compensation areas in accordance with Art. 76, of which 16 ha or 9% is in compliance with the Ecological Quality Ordinance (ÖQV)
High percentage in UAA maintained
Farms 36 farms within the city area, of which:11 are owned by the City of Zurich, leased1 owned by the city, Juchhof estate
1 GSZ-managed farm outside of the city area (Horgenberg)
Structure geared towards long-term existence
Average farm size in theCanton of ZurichBased on 2004/2005 figures
17,5 ha36 farms within the city: 26,8 ha12 city-owned farms: 43,8 ha 10 city-owned farms: approx 60 ha
Management 250 ha are managed organically (27% of UAA), the remainder in accordance with the Ecological Proof of Performance (öLN) 9 out of 36 farms produce organically, 8 of which are municipal leased farms
Ecological Proof of Performance (öLN) is standard, above-average percentage is organically farmed All municipal leased farms comply with organic guidelines. Organic farms are preferred when leasing UAA to third parties.
Number of animals on farmsBased on 2005 figures
Cattle: approx. 650Horses: approx. 60Sheep: approx. 2,200Chickens: approx. 2,600Pigs: approx. 900
Diversity retained
Animal husbandry Over 70% of cows and cattle and 50% of pigs are kept in animal-friendly loose houseing and are regularly allowed to run outside. Over 80% of chickens have an animal-friendly stall and can run around outside (BTS and RAUS supplementary programmes)
80% of cows and cattle and 80% of pigs are reared in an exemplary manner90% of chickens are reared in an exemplary manner
Number of standard fruit trees within the city area
4,750, of which around 3,000 on UAA 10,000, of which around 5,000 on UAA
Direct sales Up to 1/4 of the turnover of a farm Constitutes on average 1/3 of the income
Sales via other labels Current labels: ZüriChornBrot (bread), FSC Holz (timber), Bio (organic products)
Established, regional marketing encouraged
Direct payments (DZ) to farms in the city
CHF 1,5 million from the Confederation and Canton Ecological Quality Ordinance ÖQV networking projects currently being implemented municipal subsidies made
Juchhof Farmland: approx. 155 haWine: approx. 18,000 bottles per yearCereal: approx. 200 tMilk production: approx. 400,000 kgFatted pig production: approx. 1,100
Operates as a combined agricultural and service businessLand and production volume depends on the new direction
75The Green Book of Zurich
Agriculture Green and Open Spaces
Our F ie lds of Act ion
Maintenance We are working towards the maintenance of a significant area of available farmland in the no-
building and agricultural zones. We examine requests for alterations of land use on the basis of qualified proof of
need.
EnhancemenWe ensure that the needs identified by Landscape Development Plans (LEK) – for instance recreation,
scenery and ecology – are met in agriculture with appropriate measures. We promote the planting and upkeep of fruit trees
and hedgerows.
EcologyandtheenvironmentWe support ecological networks in accordance with Ecological Quality Ordinance
(ÖQV) and are expanding organic farming to the maximum amount feasible with the market. We are also campaigning for
animal husbandry in compliance with BTS and RAUS definitions. We promote measures to reduce emissions, particularly
carbon dioxide, carbon black particles and nitrogen.
Inter-farm cooperation We advocate sustained, inter-farm cooperation in the upkeep of green spaces and of
the exploitaton of yard waste.
MarketingWe promote the use and marketing of agricultural products within a close radius to the farms, especially by
direct sales on the farm and within municipal facilities, such as restaurants, hospitals and care homes. Strong, well-known
quality and product labels support sales.
CompensationforcommunityservicesWe are developing a concept for compensation for community work.
Landpolicy We lease municipal land on the basis of clearly defined, economic, ecological and social criteria.
Public relationsworkWe promote with “Green Knowledge” campaigns an understanding and appreciation of
farms in the city and reinforce an awareness of their importance.
Legalbasis We campaign by means of structure and land use plans for regulations in the interests of agriculture, nature
conservation and protection of the countryside.
Juchhof We are repositioning the Juchhof estate as a service provider for the city: for the use of agricultural
products, for the specific upkeep of green spaces and innovational socio-cultural services. The Juchhof guarantees
cost-effectively land for coming generations.
Basic pr inciples
79The Green Book of Zurich
Linking of subject areas within The Green Book, the Structure of GSZ and Sustainability
Biodiversi ty
Basic principles
Zurich offers a wide variety of habitats and is therefore home to a large number of species
of wildlife. The existing habitats have to be maintained and added to in a targeted manner
to ensure that the city can also make an important contribution to biodiversity in the future.
It is essential to awaken and reinforce an awareness and appreciation of the diversity of
species and habitats.
THE GREEN BOOK
Subject areas Page
Green and Open SpacesUrban landscape 31Parks, squares and common land 37Designated open spaces 43Living and working environment 59Forests 65Agriculture 71
Basic principlesEnvironment 85
Environmental EducationGreen Knowledge 117
The Company 135
STRUCTURE OF GSZ
Product groups and products
Understanding and promotion of natureEducation / ExperiencesExhibitionsGame rearingProtection of game / birdsPromotion of species and habitatsNatural forest / Sihl Forest
Natural areas / open spacesRecreational forestCemeteriesParksSchool groundsExtensive green spacesAgriculturePlanning and construction of green and open spaces
Land / building management Leased landAgricultural leases
ServicesConsultancy / Monitoring
Support products
Customer groups
Teachers / schoolchildrenResearchersRecreational usersResidents / workersLessees / tenantsDevelopers / planners
SUSTAINABILITY (MONET)
Claims
Social solidarityMeeting needsDevelopments that take into account well-being
Economic performance Environmentally-friendly production
Environmental responsibilityConservation of livelihoodConservation of biodiversityEcological balanceMinimisation of environmental risksValues of nature and the cultivated landscape
Indicators
Social solidarityMental well-being Identity-forming environment Satisfaction with the residential environment
Economic performanceEnvironment management systems Environmentally-based subsidies
Ecological responsibility Utilised agricultural area (UAA) Organic agriculture Consumption of organic products Spatial requirement of flowing waterDiversity of species Diversity of land use and soil cover National nature reserves Ecological compensation areas
Today …
80 The Green Book of Zurich
Biodiversity Basic principles
… Zurich provides a large variety of different habitats – with
microclimatic extremes and an ample provision of food –
and many niche habitats thanks to dynamic transformation
processes. In structurally poor, agriculturally intensively
utilised areas there are not as much habitats for wildlife as
there are in the city of Zurich, with over 1,200 species of plant
growing in the region. There are around 300 proven species of
wildlife - with the number of animals living in the region being
estimated as being around 10,000 ! Some endangered species
have been found in larger numbers in recent years.
Many areas of high Fundamentally all unsealed soil
and hollows in roofs and walls are potential habitats for
plants and animals. Areas of high natural value in Zurich
are extensively managed farmland, orchards, south-facing
rough pasture, wetlands and all streams with slopes.
Vineyards and woods on the Uetliberg, as well as the
railtrack yard of the main railway station, are among the
most valuable habitats that form a reservoir of municipal
flora and fauna within the residential area. They are listed
in the Inventory of Municipal Nature Conservation and
Landscape Preservation Areas and are expertly maintained
and enhanced in a targeted manner. 18 valuable core
areas in the buffer zone, with an area of 98 hectares, are
legally protected – their upkeep is therefore assured. These
protected areas are for the most part on agricultural land.
InterconnectingandimprovinghabitatsHabitats must be maintained in a manner that the species
populations can survive in the long term and must also be
linked to each other – for instance by green belts, zones
along the side of roads, streams or hedgerows. Large-
scale ecological corridors, ecological compensation areas
and targeted interconnecting concepts form the basis for
agricultural subsidies. The basic prerequisites for habitats
of high ecological value are wildlife corridors and the
upkeep and maintenance of green spaces in harmony with
nature.
Habitats in the city Zurich is a city that gives a
lot of room to nature. Ecologically diverse green spaces
are not just of benefit to plants and animals but make a
considerable contribution to the quality of life of the people
who live and work in the city. Maintaining the current
diversity of habitats is increasingly coming into conflict
with structural densification, which is putting pressure
on and sealing over other areas of open space. Moreover,
the existing green spaces are increasingly coming under
pressure from leisure activities. Many wild animals – deer
or hares for instance – are disturbed in their habitats. Other
species, such as foxes or pigeons, cope well with conditions
in the urban area. The growth in their populations and their
changes of behaviour – triggered by feeding, a misdirected
love for animals – can be problematic and a potential
danger in terms of disease and epidemics.
Advancement of the existing diversity There
have been many programmes promoting the diversity
of species and habitats for many years. Thanks to them,
endangered species of birds and reptiles have been saved,
which might have disappeared without these initiatives.
Hedgerows and especially fruit trees have declined in
number. In contrast deadwood in forests is on the increase,
and habitats along the many open streams have become
more numerous and larger. Native species are increasingly
threatened by invasive neophytes and neobiota that include
pests and diseases.
Apprec iat ion by the inhabi tantsThe diversity of plant species is appreciated by the
population and is perceived as being something wonderful.
Nevertheless knowledge about the issue of biodiversity
is still inadequate. The biodiversity of natural habitats is
massively overestimated and little importance is attached
to the loss of species. It is therefore necessary to have a
broad-based information and awareness programme among
different groups of the population, such as consumers,
political decision-makers and young people.
In 10 Years …
81The Green Book of Zurich
Biodiversity Basic principles
… the city of Zurich will be making an important contribution to biodiversity with its large variety of agricultural and
urban habitats – even beyond the city limits. There will be adequate, good-quality and well-connected spaces within the
residential areas and in the open countryside and in forests to preserve the variety of flora and fauna.
Legally protected municipal and inter-municipal habitats will be preserved in the long term. There will be adequate
replacement offered wherever habitats worth protecting have to be relinquished. This will retain the excellent level.
Ecological, design-related, use-specific and economical aspects will be weighed against each other with a comprehensive
planning approach; the “nature value index” tool will provide a good basis for this.
Interconnecting Those habitats critical for biological and rural diversity – including running water, forests and the
edges of forests – will be connected to a large extent. The habitats worth protecting will be connected on a small scale,
taking into specific account the diversity of elements typical for the city. Ecological compensation areas will ensure that
nature can also thrive in residential areas and will promote the diversity of species.
Multifaceted habitats Green roofs will be very common will be of a high environmental quality. 10,000 fruit
trees with old and new varieties will be cultivated to produce and form a habitat at one and the same time. The
appreciation of older varieties will be high. Widespread native hedgerows and woods will form a common element
in the cultivated landscape. Maintenance of green spaces in harmony with nature will protect and promote habitats,
even if this should cause additional costs.
Livelihoodsecured Wild animals and birds will find a livelihood to suit their needs and their stocks will be healthy
and will have adapted to the habitats. Key corridors for wild animals will be able to be passed through. Invasive species,
as well as pests and diseases, that may harm native species of animals and plants, will be under control.
Diversityofspecies recordedThere will be a large diversity of species in the city. It will be regularly recorded,
assessed using the nature value index, presented in the ecological network map and the population will be aware of it. The
following species are currently recorded in the list of “Ziel- und Leitarten der Stadt Zürich” (Target and Indicator Species
of the City of Zurich):
> Endangered species (red list)
> Successfully promoted species (blue list)
> Rare species or species with special habitat requirements
> Species where its occurrence is noteworthy for Zurich
> Neophytes and neobiota (black list).
Valuednaturalexperience The city’s nature will be of great significance for the quality of life. There will be a very
high percentage of the population that appreciates the diversity of nature. There will be a range of nature experiences
offered that appeals to the primary preferences of the target groups. Surprisingly and unconventionally, these preferences
will often be linked to natural topics, with the issue of biodiversity being placed in an urban and global context.
InvolvementinteachingnaturevaluesA network of volunteers will support GSZ in promoting the perception
and appreciation of biodiversity. People with a strong relationship with nature will have an opportunity to take on an active
communication role.
82The Green Book of Zurich
Biodiversity Basic principles
INDICATORS TODAY OBJECTIVES FOR 10 YEARS FROM NOW
Nature reserves without forests
98 ha, of which 71 ha are inter-municipal Approx. 240 ha, the most valuable land will be protected
Municipal conservation areas without forests
500 ha are municipal, of which15 ha are inter-municipal (without conservation orders) 150 ha are city-owned, 350 ha are not city-owned150 ha are in the building zone, 350 ha are in the buffer zone1,230 niche sites
Quality will be maintained, the most valuable land will have been designated as nature reserve
Retained
Maintenance in harmony with nature based on the Administrative Regulation (VVO)
GSZ: 100%Other municipal services: approx. 70%Landlords of allotments and recreational gardens: approx. 60%Private landowners: No data available
Retained100%100%Cultivation will be in harmony with nature
Ecological compensation areas
Percentage of ecological compensation areas in the total utilised agricultural area: 18%
Percentage of ecologically valuable land in residential land: approx. 15%
Implementation established with special land use plans and overbuilding of areas Reporting within the framework of all building law-related processes
High percentage maintained, assured by networkingprojects and conservation orders
Retained at 15%
Implementation established with individual construction projects, appropriate legal basis exists
Biodiversity Species of plants within the city area: approx. 1,200(in Switzerland around 2,700)Vertebrates within the city area: 174 (in Switzerland 404)
Proven species of animal in the city area:Mammals: 32 (incl. 9 bats)Fish: 28Amphibians: 11Reptiles: 5Birds: Species of breeding birds 98Butterflies and moths: 53Grasshoppers and crickets: 27Dragonflies: 36Fireflies: 2(Around 40,000 species of animal live in Switzerland)
Retained
Retained
Retained
Problematical stocks of animals
Pigeons in the city centre: 5200Foxes within the city area: 1000
3,000reduced in the city centre
Number of standard fruit trees within the city area
4,750, of which around 3,000 are on UAA 10,000, of which around 5,000 are on UAA
83The Green Book of Zurich
Biodiversity Basic principles
Our F ie lds of Act ion
Preservingbiodiversity We are developing a “Nature Promotion” scheme in which we define how GSZ will guarantee
biodiversity in the long term and develop the livelihood for flora and fauna in a targeted manner. We are fostering selected
endangered species of plant and animals in accordance with the inventory of Target and Indicator Species of the City of
Zurich and are developing a corresponding monitoring tool (Nature Value Index).
Adding to nature reserves We are extending legally secured conservation areas by an outstanding number
of 40 areas amounting to around 140 hectares and are maintaining them.
Advancingtheplantingoffruittrees We are providing incentives for the planting of fruit trees of old and new
varieties to ensure that the number exceeds 10,000. We will attain this target by maintaining, supporting and harvesting
and by further projects.
Interconnecting habitats We are initiating new interconnecting structures and improving existing ones. We are
developing a scheme for ecological interconnections based on the Ecological Quality Ordinance (ÖQV) and are involved in
implementing them.
Improving compensation areas We are promoting ecological compensation areas, even in planning and
construction projects in the building zone. Land of little ecological value with no serious land use pressure will be enhanced.
We are working towards agreements for the upkeep of key private land.
Green roofsWe are promoting green roofs as valuable habitats for flora and fauna as part of our consultation work
for building projects.
Dealingwith neophytes and neobiota We are defining how we deal with invasive neophytes and neobiota
in the city and are promoting an understanding among the population about how to deal correctly with them.
AdvisinggardenersWe are increasing the use of older varieties of fruit and vegetables and native wild plants by
targeted advice to families and hobby gardeners. The Municipal Botanical Garden is established as an education centre for
horticultural knowledge and offers a range of further education classes to suit specific target groups and also increases
the stock of and sale of older varieties.
Legal basis We campaign by means of structure plans and land use planning for regulations to promote nature
conservation and protection of the countryside.
85The Green Book of Zurich
Environment
Basic principles
Environmental conservation has been top priority in the city of Zurich for some time.
This has resulted in an improved quality of air and clean water. However, air pollution by
soot particles (fine dust), ozone and nitrogen oxides has remained a problem, as has
the high level of contamination and sealing of the soil. Significant commitment is needed
to ensure that environmental conditions continue to improve.
THE GREEN BOOK
Subject areas Page
Green and Open SpacesUrban landscape 31 Parks, squares and common land 37Designated open spaces 43Living and working environment 59Forests 65Agriculture 71
Basic principlesBiodiversity 79
Environmental EducationGreen Knowledge 117
The Company 135
SUSTAINABILITY (MONET)
Claims
Social solidarityMeeting needsPromoting healthDevelopments that take into account well-being
Economic performance Environmentally-friendly productionEnvironmental-friendly and socially-compatible global trade
Environmental responsibilityConservation of natureConservation of biodiversityConsumption limits for renewable resourcesConsumption limits for non-renewable resourcesLimit on degradable waste and toxic substancesAvoidance of non-degradable toxic substancesMinimisation of environmental risksValues of nature and the cultivated landscape
Indicators
Social solidarityLife expectancy in good health Mental well-being General satisfaction with life
Economic performanceEnvironment management systems Environmentally-based subsidies Expenditure for research and development
Ecological responsibility Utilised agricultural area (UAA) Organic agriculture Consumption of organic products Environmentally-related expenditureMarket percentage of non-food products with “eco” labelsPeople affected by noiseContamination of the soil with heavy metals and PAHSoil compaction Spatial requirement of flowing waterFine dust concentration Diversity of species Diversity of land use and soil cover National nature reserves Ecological compensation areas
STRUCTURE OF GSZ
Product groups and products
Understanding and promotion of natureEducation / ExperiencesExhibitionsPromotion of species and habitatsNatural forest / Sihl Forest
Natural areas / open spacesRecreational forestCemeteriesParksGreen on the roadsSchoolyardsSports groundsSwimming facilitiesExtensive green spacesAgriculturePlanning of green / open spacesPlanning and construction of green and open spaces
Land / building management Leased landAgricultural leases
Natural productsForestry productsChristmas treesHorticultural productsAgricultural products
ServicesConsultancy / Monitoring
Support products
Customer groups
Teachers / schoolchildrenResearchersRecreational usersResidents / employeesLessees / tenantsPurchasers of goodsDevelopers / planners
Linking of subject areas within The Green Book, the Structure of GSZ and Sustainability
Today…
86 The Green Book of Zurich
...environmental conservation is very important in the
city of Zurich. Its position as an “energy and water city”
and its reports on the environment and sustainability set
clear signposts. This corresponds to the concerns of the
population, who have rated the relevance of environmental
problems higher in the 2005 survey than in the 2003 survey.
49% of people surveyed want the municipality to make
more effort to improve the environmental situation.
Maintenance of green spaces The 1995
Administrative Regulation (VVO) “Naturnahe Grünflächen-
pflege” (Maintenance of Green Spaces in Harmony with
Nature) is decisive for the upkeep of city-owned green
spaces. It has the aim of improving this land in terms of
biodiversity and natural experiences. The Administrative
Regulation specifies the use of plants, the use of fertilizers
and pesticides and the consumption of resources. The
Administrative Regulation is complied with on all GSZ land.
GSZ uses an environmental management system which
facilitated certification in accordance with ISO 14001.
Soil In various allotment garden areas within the city of
Zurich, pioneering research has been undertaken on the
extent of soil pollution and its causes and the risks have also
been assessed. In a small number of individual cases, changes
of use were needed. Tests have shown that consumption of
vegetables planted on contaminated soil is associated with
few risks. However, it is dangerous if small children eat heavily
contaminated soil. The fertility of soil is not only impaired
by pollution with toxic substances and over-fertilisation, but
also by compaction of soils by, for instance, the use of heavy
machinery or by various public events. The use of salt to clear
snow also has a polluting effect. A new land register of polluted
sites is now available for the entire canton that also includes
a number of green spaces within the city. Contaminated soil is
examined during building projects and appropriate measures
are undertaken.
Urban climate and air quality Overall Zurich has
a somewhat sensitive climate with a poor exchange of
air masses. The wooded hills, the lake and the rivers, the
minimally built-up slopes and the railtrack yard of the main
station are the key sources and corridors of fresh air that
affect the climatic situation in the city of Zurich. Plants have
a significant role to play as dust filters. In recent years, the
quality of air in the city has significantly improved, however
pollution through nitrogen oxide and ozone remains
high and often exceeds the threshold values in summer.
Pollution by soot particles is also significantly above the
limit values. In order to meet these figures, the emission
of fine dust would have to be reduced to less than half its
current value. As with the flora and fauna, climate changes
or heat islands in the city’s microclimate also cause stress
amongst the people living there and have an effect on their
well-being. Excess artificial lighting at biologically incorrect
times also has a negative effect on the ecosystem.
Water Around one third of the soil in the city of Zurich is
sealed and the percentage is rising. The sealed area of land
per inhabitant is only half as large as the Swiss average
owing to the high level of building density. Sealing not only
means a loss of habitat for flora and fauna but also has a
negative effect on the water cycle. Meteoric water cannot
seep away through sealed land. This means that large
sewage ducts are needed. The effectiveness of the water
treatment works is reduced and makes retention measures
necessary. Zurich is a privileged by its lake and the quality
of the water is very good. The forests provide an important
reservoir for water too. Over 70% of the city’s drinking
water is made up of treated lake water. Water consumption
has fallen markedly in the last 20 years. Regular quality
controls are undertaken to safeguard the groundwater. The
restoration of streams and renaturation of rivers, as has
been done the last 20 years, constitute key enhancements
for the environment and for recreation.
Noise Green spaces and open spaces are used in a
variety of different ways. On the one hand they are popular
places of calm, silence, slowing down and contemplation –
especially cemeteries and woods. On the other hand, the
intensive use of recreational land often leads to complaints
about noise pollution by those living close to these areas.
Noise emissions, like heavy road and air traffic, are stress
factors that have a negative effect on the quality of life and
health of the inhabitants and the recreational value in green
and open spaces.
Umwelt Grundhaltungen
In 10 Years …
87The Green Book of Zurich
...Zurich will enjoy the reputation of being an environmentally-friendly, sustainable city. Green spaces and open spaces
will be designed and maintained ecologically. They will have a positive effect on the climate and air in Zurich as they will
be reservoirs of fresh air, serve as corridors for air exchange and reduce heat by providing shade and evaporation. Trees
and bushes will act as powerful dust filters along the sides of roads. The planning and management of green spaces and
open spaces will be designed to ensure positive effects in terms of the urban climate, the sealing of soil, soil conservation,
water balance and noise. Green spaces and open spaces of important recreational value will preferably be emission-free
and noise-free and their use will be compatible with the district in which they find themselves.
ManagementAreas of forestry and agriculture will be ecologically managed. Fertilizers and pesticides will be used in
a restrained manner in the green spaces. If their use is unavoidable, they will be used selectively with very few spreading
losses. Biological methods will preferably be used to combat pests. The management methods in harmony with nature
practised by GSZ will also be used on land that is not owned by the city.
SoilFertile soil will be the prerequisite for meeting the most elementary basic need – nutrition. Further soil contamination
should be avoided. The upkeep of soils and maintenance of their fertility will be top priority for those charged with managing
the land. Polluted and contaminated soil will be reclaimed in an environmentally-friendly and cost-effective manner. Local
solutions will have priority, with groundwork only taking place in exceptional and unavoidable cases. Additional sealing of
soil by structural densification will be minimal.
Light pollution Thanks to its “Plan Lumière” (Lighting Plan), the increase in the volume of light will be reduced in
the city of Zurich and the quality of light will be improved to the benefit of the ecosystem.
Airquality GSZ will support all activities to improve air quality and will play an exemplary role in relation to its own
emissions.
Water A high level of attention will be paid to the conservation of soil and groundwater based on the following principle:
Seepage, otherwise retention, will be ensured where possible. Underground construction under green spaces, so-called
indirect sealing, will be kept at low level. Seepage will be advanced by the public authorities or will be attractive due to
lower meteoric water fees. The supply of emergency water that functions without the supply of energy and is fed by over
80 sources in the forests will enjoy maximum protection in land management. Running water will be environmentally
improved. The quality of lake water will be good.
Renewableenergy Timber and organic waste will contribute to supply in accordance with the Energy Master Plan.
Bioenergy will be an important branch of industry for agriculture and forestry.
Environment Basic principles
88The Green Book of Zurich
Environment Basic principles
INDICATORS TODAY OBJECTIVES FOR 10 YEARS FROM NOW
Forestry management City-owned forest: 100% FSCForest owned by others: 95% FSCAgriculture: 100% Ecological Proof of Performance (öLN)9 of 36 farms comply with the BIO standardAllotments: isolated plots removed from cultivation
Retained100% FSCRetainedPreferably high organic percentageLand use of polluted plots changed
Management in harmony with nature based on the Administrative Regulation (VVO)
GSZ: 100%Other municipal offices: approx. 70%Private landowners: no data available
Retained100%Management in harmony with nature
Gardening in harmony with nature
Widespread among allotment gardeners 100% gardening in harmony with nature
Pollution of agricultural soil with toxic substances
Low, due to öLN and BIO Low, organic percentage increased
Sealed land 35% of the municipal area (excl. water) or55% of the residential area
Increase avoided
Underground construction under green spaces
Data not known Data collected, increase avoided
Contaminated soils 157 landfill sites in the KbS 1,500 operational and accident sites as potentially contaminated areas
Cleaned up in an environmentally-friendly and economical manner where necessary
Soil movement 60% of the city area within the test perimeter Restored in an environmentally-friendly and economical manner where necessary
Timber/chips for energy GSZ forest: 5,000 m3
Non-GSZ forest: 3,000 m3
7,000 m3
7,000 m3
Street trees 20,500, Avenue Concept available Avenue Scheme implemented
Streams Stream Concept being implementedStream Maintenance Concept in preparation
Concepts implementedt
Environmental sensitivity2003/2005 Public opinion surveys
Major problems in Zurich:2003: 4% mention the environment2005: 8% mention the environment
City Council efforts on the environmental situation:Far too little: 5%Too little: 44%Just right: 46%Too much, much too much: 2%Don’t know, no information: 3%
Mention of problems reduced
Satisfaction higher
89The Green Book of Zurich
Our F ie lds of Act ion
Participation We are working closely with the Zurich Environmental Health department (UGZ) in producing an
Environmental Atlas, are involved in developing a scheme for dealing with polluted soils and are supporting the
implementation of the Mobility Strategy and the Streams Management Scheme.
Emissions We are campaigning for a further reduction of emissions in agriculture and forestry.
Maintenance in harmony with nature We are extending upkeep in harmony with nature to private land,
by expanding relevant training courses and advice. The use of road salt will be kept as low as possible.
Environmentally-friendly management We are promoting environmentally-friendly forms of management,
such as organic cultivation, FSC in forestry and gardening in harmony with nature.
Contribution to the urban climate We are fostering a healthy urban climate by implementing the Avenue
Concept, making green spaces available and ensuring fresh air corridors.
Counselling We are campaigning, by means of consultation, to ensure that the sealing of land is kept to a minimum
or is compensated for at least by seepage or open retention. We are also working towards ensuring that there are no
basements or underground garages under green spaces or by demanding adequate cover for tree plantings.
Environment Basic principles
91The Green Book of Zurich
Linking of subject areas within The Green Book, the Structure of GSZ and Sustainability
Basic principles
Provis ion of Open Space
The residential population of Zurich and the people who work in the city are provided to a
varying extent with good public, multifunctional open spaces. The City Council of Zurich wishes
to make good provision in all districts of the city – either by the provision of new parks or the
improving and opening up of designated open spaces.
SUSTAINABILITY (MONET)
Claims
Social solidarityMeeting needsSatisfaction and happinessDevelopments that take into account well-being
Environmental responsibilityCaution in the event of uncertaintyValues of nature and the cultivated landscape
Indicators
Social solidarityMental well-being General satisfaction with life Identity-forming environment Satisfaction with the residential environment Recreational amenities in the residential environment
Economic performanceJob satisfaction
Ecological responsibility Residential land in general and per head of population Level of use Separate building zones
STRUCTURE OF GSZ
Product groups and products
Natural areas / open spacesPlanning of green/open spacesPlanning and construction of green and open spaces
ServicesConsultancy/Monitoring
Customer groups
Recreational users Residents/employees Developers/planners
THE GREEN BOOK
Subject areas Page
Green and Open SpacesParks, squares and common land 37Designated open spaces 43> Cemeteries 46> Allotments and recreational gardens 48> Sports grounds and swimming facilities 50> Playgrounds and schoolyards 52Living and working environment 59Forests 65Agriculture 71
The Company 135
Today…
92 The Green Book of Zurich
Provision of Open Space Basic principles
… the City Council of Zurich is still pursuing the lofty aim that
it stated in its 1986 and 1999 Open Space Concepts: the City
Council wishes to provide the population and employees
who work in the city with adequate public open spaces
that are easily accessible on foot – thereby satisfying the
district-specific basic need for recreational space that can
be used every day. This aim has not yet been fully met, as
today only around two-thirds of the residential population
and half of employees in the city have adequate or good
provision.
Analysis of the degree of provision The
provision with green and open spaces is calculated on the
basis of demand from the population and the provision of
recreational space and is a purely quantitative figure. The
degree of provision will reach 100% when each person
living in the city has 8 square metres of publicly accessible
multifunctional open space available within a radius of
15 minutes on foot – or when there is a corresponding area
of other open space available, for instance schoolyards,
that have only limited suitability for recreation. The
guideline figure for people employed or studying in the city
is 5 square metres per person
Different user groups have different demands: for instance
open spaces play a key role especially around lunchtime
for employees and students. In comparison, the residential
population uses the open spaces throughout the whole day
and also at weekends. Less mobile people – like the elderly
or families with small children – are dependent on the open
spaces being in their vicinity and easily accessible.
The degree of provision is sub-divided into 4 categories and
is classified as follows:
Degree of provision; Rating:
over 75% good
50–75% satisfactory
25 –50% unsatisfactory
below 25% poor
The documentation “Freiraumversorgung der Stadt Zürich”
(Provision of Open Space by the City of Zurich) contains
detailed information on the calculation.
Large differences in the districts The degree
of provision varies significantly from district to district for
historical reasons and also due to residential typology today
in the different districts of the city. The districts close to the
lake, forests and open countryside are well provided for. The
planning guideline figures of 8 or 5 square metres are not
achieved in the dense inner-city mixed districts nor in the
residential districts where there is scarcely any public open
space. Often, however, a sufficiently large-scale residential
environment provides a certain degree of balance, as it the
case for instance on the Zurichberg.
Structural densification Private and semi-public
land is coming under increasing pressure from structural
densification. The degree of provision for the population
threatens to deteriorate in two respects: recreational space
is becoming smaller due to additional building and at the
same time the demand for open space is rising due to the
growing population. The situation is particularly problematic
in those districts where there is too little public open space
but also very little private and semi-public open space. This
affects, for instance, areas in districts 4 and 5, in Letzi or in
Schwamendingen along the Überlandstrasse. A population
growth rate of 3% is assumed for Zurich by 2025
Possibilities for enhancements It is possible to
counteract a lack of provision of open space in a variety
of different ways. In the majority of existing and under-
served residential districts there is very little room for
new parks; improvements can be made by improving
designated open spaces, like schoolyards or sports
facilities. There is more scope in so-called development
areas, where the open spaces are intended to meet the
needs of a future residential population. Thanks to early
involvement in the planning of open spaces, it has been
possible, for instance, to secure land in Oerlikon for four
new parks.
The degree of provision for the population and employees
in the city can be improved by making recreational space
more easily accessible and thus more strongly connected
to the districts in which they are located. Attractive open
spaces have become more accessible to visitors thanks
to the Letten viaduct or the Ampèresteg bridge.
In 10 Years …
93The Green Book of Zurich
Provision of Open Space Basic principles
… the residential and working population, schoolchildren and students will appreciate the city of Zurich as an attractive place
in which to live and work. It will offer outdoor recreational facilities in all districts that can be reached quickly and safely even
by less mobile people. The degree of provision for the population will be good overall and provision for short-term relaxation
and recreation for employees at lunchtime will be at least satisfactory. 8 or 5 square metres of public multifunctional open
space per inhabitant or employee will be stated planning guidelines figures. An adequate residential environment will have a
compensatory role.
Areas secured by legal regulations will be a fundamental principle thanks to which a high quality of land use and design will
be able to be guaranteed.
Interconnected open spaces with recreational potential There will also be designated open spaces
available as general public open spaces over and above the parks, forests and open countryside. They will be easily
accessible via a dense and safe network of paths and will be linked to each other.
StructuraldensificationWhere there is structural densification, the demands of a high level of use will be balanced
by the need for adequate recreational space. Priorities will be appropriately set in relation to sustainabilty and the quality
of life.
94The Green Book of Zurich
Provision of Open Space Basic principles
INDICATORS TODAY OBJECTIVES FOR 10 YEARS FROM NOW
Planning guidelines figures for public multifunctional open spaces
8 m2 of open space per inhabitant5 m2 of open space per worker
Guideline figures appliedGuideline figures applied
Planning guidelines figures for the residential population compared
Zurich: 8 m2: Recreational land within 400 m, incl. designated open spaces
Recommendation of the German Association of Cities and Towns (Deutscher Städtetag): 13 m2: Parks within 1,000 m, incl. designated open spacesApplied in Berlin and Hamburg among others
Munich: 25 m22: Recreational land within 2,000 m, excl. designated open spaces10 m2: Parks within 500 m
Degree of provision for the residential populationBased on the 2004 residential population
Degree of provision good: 52% Degree of provision adequate: 14% Degree of provision inadequate: 21% Degree of provision poor: 13%
Provision maintainedProvision improved as much as possibleProvision improved Provision urgently improved
Degree of provision for employees, schoolchildren and students Based on the 2001 employee figure
Degree of provision good: 43% Degree of provision adequate: 13% Degree of provision inadequate: 23%Degree of provision poor: 21%
Provision maintainedProvision maintained, improved as much as possibleProvision improved Provision improved
Appreciation2003 Public opinion survey
GSZ 2005 Balance of effects
Public green space (parks, forest, agriculture):Importance: 5,33 (out of a maximum of 6) Satisfaction: 4,98 (out of a maximum of 6) Area of green space in the district:Importance: 5,2 (out of a maximum of 6) Satisfaction: 4,3 (out of a maximum of 6)
Satisfaction corresponds to importance
Satisfaction corresponds to importancet
Provision of recreationally-relevant open space Based on 2005 figures
52 ha of superior open space (e.g. lakeside facilities, common land)114 ha of district-appropriate open space434 ha of designed open space44 ha of linear open space (green belts, riverbanks)803 ha of open countryside(1,084 out of the total 2,230 ha of forest is calculated as the outskirts of the forest)
Facilities maintained, increased in under-served areas
Accessibility and networking of recreational space
Varying, obstacles are known Improved, obstacles reduced
Nature and Cultural Heritage Conservation Act NHG, Art. 2Based on 2003 Building and Zoning
Ordinance, AV 2005
Situation in Zurich: around 43 m2 of recreational space per inhabitant (excluding forests)
Specified by the Nature and Cultural Heritage Protection Act: 45m2
95The Green Book of Zurich
Provision of Open Space Basic principles
Our F ie lds of Act ion
Improvedprovision We are improving, as a matter of priority, the provision of open space in poorly and inadequately
served areas. We are creating, where possible, new parks or enhancing designated public open spaces, such as allotments
and sports facilities, to become general recreational spaces. With cooperative planning, we are working towards the
needs-based, legally secured, public recreational use of private areas.
ConsultationonstructuraldensificationWe support redensification on a consultative basis with the aim of
maintaining as high a quality of open space as possible on private land, especially in residential areas where there is little
public recreational space.
Application of planning guideline figures We are campaigning for the implementation of the planning
guidelines figures of 8 square metres of public multifunctional open space per inhabitant and 5 square metres per
employed person in development projects and the use of qualitative processes.
Improving accessibility We are campaigning to continually improve accessibility to recreational spaces along
municipal paths. As a priority, we are closing gaps, eliminating obstacles and opening up areas hitherto impassable.
Provisionanalysis We regularly produce provision analyses and evaluate them. We produce prognosis calculations on
a region-by-region basis, thereby actively influencing future provision of open spaces.
97The Green Book of Zurich
Linking of subject areas within The Green Book, the Structure of GSZ and Sustainability
Basic principles
Use of Open Spaces
The diverse, sometimes very intensive use of green and open spaces is a key factor of life
in Zurich. The current provision offers options for a range of sporting, exercise ad recreational
activities. Organised outdoor events are also very popular. The pressure on land use requires
new methods of dealing with conflict, intensive maintenance and an adaptation of the
infrastructure. The use of green spaces and open spaces is based on respectful coexistence.
SUSTAINABILITY (MONET)
Claims
Social solidarityLimits of individual freedomMeeting needsPromoting healthSatisfaction and happinessDevelopments that take into account well-beingIntercultural and interpersonal understandingSocial and political participationChild-friendly surroundings
Environmental responsibilityValues of nature and the cultivated landscape
Indicators
Social solidarityLife expectancy in good health Mental well-being Health-relevant behaviour, physical activities General satisfaction with life Identity-forming environment Satisfaction with the residential environment Recreational amenities in the residential environment Option to participate in local processes
Ecological responsibility Utilised agricultural area (UAA) People affected by noiseSoil compaction Spatial requirement of flowing waterDiversity of agriculture and appearance of the landscape Diversity of land use and soil cover National nature reserves
STRUCTURE OF GSZ
Product groups and products
Understanding and promotion of natureEducation / ExperiencesNatural forest / Sihl Forest
Natural areas / open spacesRecreational forestCemeteriesParksGreen on the roadsSchoolyardsSports groundsSwimming facilitiesExtensive green spacesAgriculturePlanning of green / open spacesPlanning and construction of green and open spaces
ServicesConsultancy / MonitoringServices to other bodies
Support products
Customer groups
Teachers / schoolchildren Researchers Recreational users Residents / employees Sportsmen and women Lessees / tenants Developers / planners
THE GREEN BOOK
Subject areas Page
Green and Open SpacesUrban landscape 31 Parks, squares and common land 37Designated open spaces 43Living and working environment 59Forests 65Agriculture 71
Basic principlesProvision of open space 91Design of open space and Horticultural heritage 103 Participation and partnerships 109
Environmental EducationGreen Knowledge 117> The Succulent Collection 124> The Municipal Botanical Garden 126> Nature Experience Park 128
The Company 135
Today …
98 The Green Book of Zurich
Use of Open Spaces Basic principles
… leisure time and recreation are important for the
population of Zurich and are crucial for their quality of life.
The people of Zurich state that they are very satisfied with
their leisure time. Walking and hiking, as well as active
involvement in sport, are the most popular leisure activities.
The relevance of leisure time is still increasing, particularly
due to higher life expectancy. Each and every user group
places its own demands on day-to-day relaxation, and
just as diverse and varied is the need for open spaces to
offer appropriate amenities. Attractive multi-use parks or
playgrounds and sports grounds for active participation in
sport are as much in demand as oases of calm and natural
experiences. The population of Zurich intensively uses
the full range of public green spaces on offer: over 80%
spend time there several times a month in summer and the
majority several times a week.
Health is becoming a mega-trend Daily life
has never required less movement and exercise as it
does today. Some of the population compensate for this
lack of movement by undertaking some form of sporting
activity. However, with more and more people, the lack
of movement and exercise is increasing. When linked to
problematic dietary habits, this can often lead to obesity
with associated consequences for a person’s health. There
is a broad range of green spaces and open spaces available
for movement and exercise and for active use. Attractive
paths and trails in forests and along riverbanks, on sports
fields and schoolyards etc.
Competition between user demands The
most varied and diverse demands on limited areas are
increasingly leading to conflicts of use, both on green
spaces and open spaces, as well as on the water.
Conflicts with dog-owners and cyclists are problems often
cited. For this reason, multifunctional open spaces where
it is possible to react quickly to the current needs of our
leisure society are becoming increasingly important.
Increasing pressure on land use by events The wish to use green spaces and open spaces, as well as
the lake, for public and commercial events, has increased
significantly in recent years. However, this often gives rise
to problems due to overuse and compatibility with the
neighbourhoods. Large-scale events, like the “Züri Fest” or
“Streetparade” attract hundreds of thousands of visitors
to Zurich, yet enjoy a high level of acceptance amongst
the population. According to the 2004 survey, a majority
of 72% regards the number of large-scale events as being
just right. For those living adjacent to the lake, the limit is
reached especially towards the end of the season. Waste
disposal and coordination by the «Züri-Event» association
are judged to be well resolved although noise and traffic
pollution come off less well.
Litter and vandalism Littering and vandalism are
negative occurrences associated with the intensive use of
open spaces. The intensified cleaning of recent years by the
Disposal and Recycling Services is taking effect. According
to the 2005 public opinion survey, litter, dirt and graffiti
have been disappearing from the list of urban problems
since 2001. Only 7% now regard issues of cleanliness as
the most important problem. GSZ looks after the cleaning
of forests and agricultural areas. The heedful dealing with
litter is promoted by involving classes of schoolchildren in
annual “Forest cleans”.
Safety inopenspaces Since 1999, the population’s
perception of its safety in open spaces has also improved.
Around 70% of those surveyed feel safe out and about
on foot at night in their own district. There are marked
differences depending on the age or sex of the person
surveyed, however the location is less important. Feelings
of uncertainty increase with age. Whereas over one third of
women feels unsafe at night or does not go out and about
at night for reasons of safety, only 12% of men have similar
feelings of insecurity.
Demand for infrastructure There is an increasing
demand for infrastructure facilities in open spaces, such as
eating facilities or toilets. There is also a need for improved
furnishings and the provision of open spaces with play
and sports equipment, as well as seating. Diverse wishes
for trend sports facilities, like bike trails etc., cannot all be
satisfied.
99The Green Book of Zurich
In 10 Years …
Use of Open Spaces Basic principles
…the population within the metropolitan area and in the region will have a wide, balanced and easily accessible range
of leisure amenities of a high quality. Open spaces will be primarily geared towards general public and multifaceted use.
Specific designated facilities that will be only be partially accessible or not at all accessible to the public, will meet a
proven need. Specific uses will be able to be easily reversed. Fashion-orientated, markedly changing leisure needs will be
met in the short term by the use of reversible temporary land use.
Differentiated,healthyrangeoffacilitiesA wide, varied and adequate range of facilities will meet the differing
recreational needs of the population: from active and intensive use to islands of peace and calm and experiences in
the natural world. The open spaces will invite people to integrate physical exercise into their daily lives in healthy and
safe conditions. It will be attractive to go around on foot or by bike in the city on a daily basis. The population will feel
safe in these facilities. A demand-led and well maintained infrastructure will enhance the high quality of the intensively
used recreational land, along with land in the forests. The riverbanks will add to the provision for extensive recreational
use. Public multifunctional open spaces will be available to users free of charge on principle and will be unrestrictedly
accessible wherever possible.
LivingZurich Zurich will be lively and attractive thanks to a wide range of events. Appropriate initiatives on the part of
the population will be welcomed. Public interests will take priority over private interests in approving events and private
land use. Events needing authorisation will be compensated for.
Events, functions and commercial uses will be district-appropriate and will correspond to the character of the site and
increase its value. The the lakeside used for commercial purposes will meet public interests and will neither impair the
urban image nor general recreational use. Solutions will be sought outside of the metropolitan area for designated land
use needs that cannot be met within the metropolitan area. A new events ground will enable further large-scale events.
Respectful, joint use Leisure facilities will be geared in principle to social strata. There will be particular focus,
however, on the needs of children, young people and older people. Land use conflicts and the risks of overuse will be
recognised at an early stage and – wherever this is sensible – will be defused by participatory processes and target-
orientated, cross-departmental cooperation. Coexistence and mutual acceptance will be worked towards; options will
also be examined in relation to the decentralisation of land use by the specific provision of leisure facilities. The respectful
handling of nature by the users and other user groups will be a matter of course. Litter will therefore be dealt with
responsibly and the conflict between people looking for recreation and dog-owners will be defused.
100The Green Book of Zurich
Use of Open Spaces Basic principles
INDICATORS TODAY OBJECTIVES FOR 10 YEARS FROM NOW
Significance of open green spaces 2003 Public opinion survey
Parks, forests, agricultureImportance 5,33 (out of a maximum of 6)Satisfaction 4,98 (out of a maximum of 6)
Satisfaction corresponds to importance
Leisure behaviour2005 Public opinion survey
Frequency distribution of leisure activities:1. Walking and hiking: 65% at least once per week2. Undertaking sport yourself: 59% at least once per week
High level of activity maintained
Breadth of use of the total provision of public green space2005 Public opinion survey
Widespread use: 40%Selective use: 43%Singular specific use: 10%Constant no/little use: 7%
Widespread use maintained
Health-promoting effect of green spaces
Little data available Data sets available, concept developed
Safety2005 Public opinion survey
Around one third feels very safe alone at night, 40% safer,20% more or very unsafe8% do not go out at nightWomen, especially older women, feel significantly less safe than menThe perception of safety has improved since 1999
High feeling of safety, particularly among women
Cleanliness/Litter2005 Public opinion survey
Problems of litter/dirt:drastically declined since 2001 Only 7% regard it as an important problem
Low value maintained
Survey of demand Research work, participatory process, individual surveys
Excellent knowledge of need
Land use conflicts in green and open spaces
Project-related data sets available Data available, conflicts reduced, defused
Infrastructure and facilities, maintained by GSZ
Around 4,000 benchesOver 660 items of play equipment on children›s playgroundsAround 1,470 items of play equipment in schoolyards/nurseries
Adapted to needs, in good state
Events and occasionsAcceptance of large-scale events
in the city of Zurich in 2004
Visitors/volume of litter:Züri Fest approx. 1.8 million/240 tonnesStreet Parade almost 1 million/100 tonnesTheatrical performance: over 100,000Züri marathon: 80,000Freestyle: around 50,000
District-appropriate,Events Strategy implemented in the city of Zurich
Registered dogs 7,800 Conflicts defused
101The Green Book of Zurich
Our F ie lds of Act ion
Use of Open Spaces Basic principles
Usability We are constantly improving the usability of open spaces. We are adapting open spaces to needs, taking
into account design-led and cultural aspects and the demands of native animals and plants. We are working towards
the principle of coexistence. We are controlling the intensity of land use, taking into account compatibility with land and
districts – especially along the lakeside and along the riverbank.
Assessmentofdemand We are assessing the differing needs of the open space through participatory processes
or qualified surveys.
ConflictsolutionWe recognise conflicts at an early stage and defuse them in a qualified, innovative and manner
coordinated between the different administrationi departments.
Dogs in the city We are developing a broad-based approach to the proper keeping of dogs in the city and are
implementing this accordingly.
LitteringWe support the ERZ Zurich Disposal and Recycling Services in solving litter problems in intensively used green
spaces and open spaces.
Flexible use We are dealing flexibly with the requirements of trend sports enthusiasts and young people, if this
requirement is based on a qualified proof of need, promoting temporary and interim use and ensuring that the facilities
are reversible.
Healthpromotion We are creating incentives for relaxing, healthy and safe exercise in the open countryside.
Approvalpractices We define the approval practices of the City Police, in terms of the termination of contracts. We
maintain customer-orientated approval processes tailored to the open spaces available and matching with the established
usage management plans. We formulate the necessary requirements to protect green spaces for large-scale events.
Regional cooperation We are improving regional recreational facilities and promoting cooperation in the
agglomeration. If needs cannot be met in the city, then we will look for solutions in neighbouring municipalities.
103The Green Book of Zurich
Linking of subject areas within The Green Book, the Structure of GSZ and Sustainability
Basic principles
Design of Open Spaces and Hor t icultural Her i tage
In Zurich there are both high-quality contemporary open spaces as well as a number of
historically important horticultural heritage gardens. Many of these new or historical grounds
are privately owned – the population’s awareness of well-designed open spaces is especially
important.
THE GREEN BOOK
Subject areas Page
Green and Open SpacesUrban landscape 31Parks, squares and common land 37Designated open spaces 43Living and working environment 59
Basic principlesUse of open space 97Participation and partnerships 109
Environmental EducationGreen Knowledge 117> Communications methods 120
The Company 135
STRUCTURE OF GSZ
Product groups and products
Understanding and promotion of natureEducation/ExperiencesExhibitions
Natural areas / open spacesRecreational forestCemeteriesParksGreen on the roadsSchoolyardsSports groundsSwimming facilitiesPlanning of green/open spacesPlanning and construction of green and open spaces
ServicesConsultancy/MonitoringServices to other bodiesServices for third parties
Support products
Customer groups
Residents/employeesDevelopers/planners
SUSTAINABILITY (MONET)
Claims
Social solidarityDevelopments that take into account well-beingSocial and political participationChild-friendly surroundings
Environmental responsibilityValues of nature and the cultivated landscape
Indicators
Social solidarityGeneral satisfaction with life Identity-forming environment Satisfaction with the residential environment Recreational amenities in the residential environment Option to participate in local processes
Ecological responsibility Diversity of agriculture and appearance of the landscape Diversity of land use and soil cover Ecological compensation areas
104 The Green Book of Zurich
Design of Open Spaces and Horticultural Heritage Basic principles
… over two-thirds of the Swiss population live in cities
and urban agglomerations. The increasing structural
densification of residential areas increases the need for
high-quality outstanding open spaces. At the same time
demand is also increasing for the respectful handling of our
built cultural heritage – this is also demonstrated by the
increasing demand by the population for a say in building
projects.
Open spaces as contemporary witnessesDesigned open spaces – both historical as well as
contemporary – document natural and cultural historical
developments, characterise the atmosphere of a place
thereby making it unmistakable. Zurich is rich with
historical heritage gardens and is aware of their importance
as contemporary witnesses. It is therefore, that the City
Council has set up a specialist body for the care and upkeep
of horticultural heritage gardens, still being the only
institution of its kind in Switzerland . European, cantonal
and municipal awards for the new parks in Oerlikon, as
well as for the work in the maintenance and upkeep of
heritage gardens, document the fact that commitment
to outstanding contemporary design and the care of it is
bearing fruit.
Preservationofheritagegardens 65% of heritage
gardens are privately-owned. Historical public open spaces
– including the large number of parks, cemeteries and
swimming facilities – are maintained by GSZ and renovated
and further developed if necessary. Reports and care
manuals for long-term and targeted quality assurance are
available for selected heritage gardens. Many garden owners
are not aware of the value of their garden as the inventory
is not public. Only when they submit building applications
do the owners become aware of the registration. The trend
towards redensification is exerting significant pressure on
stately villas and their gardens. The gardens are subject
to the balancing of legally protected interests and are
only very seldom placed under integral protection. GSZ is
campaigning for the most important horticultural heritage
gardens to be maintained and highly valued.
Design quality The involvement of GSZ is now well
established in terms of the design of open spaces in
municipal projects, such as schoolyards and sports facilities,
squares, elderly care homes or hospitals. The high quality
of new municipal open spaces and the enhancement of
existing open spaces are ensured by qualitative processes
or contracts to proven experts. Favourable attention in
terms of contemporary design has been paid in recent years
to parks created in Oerlikon and the amenities to enhance
the riverbanks, which have received many awards for
exceptional contemporary design quality, both from within
Switzerland and abroad.
Limited influence within private gardensand land GSZ has a consultative role within building
application processes; its effective influence on the quality
of design of private open spaces, both in residential
and business areas, remains limited within the framework
of proper processes. In comparison, its influence is
adequately specified in law with regard to special land
usage schemes. With larger private building projects of
municipal significance, GSZ proposes quality processes
for outside space and is willing to sit on juries.
CommunicationofhorticulturalheritageGSZ offers knowledge transfer in relation to the design
quality of contemporary or historical green spaces and
open spaces. Tours and exhibitions are successful and
very popular among older people. Publications, as well as
brochures and information sheets, that are distributed on
tours or offered online are mainly aimed at people who are
already interested, meaning that they often only reach an
already sympathetic audience. Usually individual amenities
are presented singly, without an overall view of the urban
area or entire landscapes. Only very few green spaces are
known beyond the city boundaries, although precisely the
new park facilities have been greeted with a high degree
of respect by experts throughout Europe. In spite of their
recognised high quality, they still play no role in tourist
marketing.
Today…
105The Green Book of Zurich
Design of Open Spaces and Horticultural Heritage Basic principles
In 10 Years …
… the high design quality of Zurich’s green spaces and open spaces will be setting benchmarks on a national and
international stage. Public green spaces and, if possible, also those that are privately owned, will be characterised by a
clear and contemporary design. The needs of users will be met by a qualified and sustained structural implementation.
The concerns and requirements of the disabled, aged and children will be on an equal footing to those of other users in
planning and project management. The design of an open space will relate to the history and character of a location, will
blend into the surroundings in terms of the urban building concept and will leave room for adaptation of use and further
development.
Art and culture High-quality designed green and open spaces will offer a platform for art to be experienced in
public places. The interrelationship between art and the design of open spaces will be an enriching and important
element of Zurich as a city of culture. The cultural heritage of historical open spaces will be guaranteed. The most
valuable witnesses for landscape architecture will be cautiously maintained and will be further development in a
targeted way.
High level of appreciation Horticultural heritage will have overall significance for the urban landscape, history
and architecture and for the environment of the inhabitants. The grounds will be free or accessible for tours – this will
also apply to private-owned facilities. The people of Zurich will perceive horticultural heritage as a living part of the city’s
history and urban development.
City’s image Historical and contemporary designed open spaces will underpin the image of Zurich and radiate beyond
the city’s boundaries. They will be attractive places to visit for tourists and the Zurich Tourist Office and the city marketing
will advertise using the green and open spaces.
106The Green Book of Zurich
Design of Open Spaces and Horticultural Heritage Basic principles
INDICATORS TODAY OBJECTIVES FOR 10 YEARS FROM NOW
Inventory of Gardens and Grounds Worth Protecting(GDP heritage gardens)
850 projects, of which:approx. 560 are private155 are maintained by GSZ, of which:6 are swimming facilities 44 are schoolyards 14 are cemeteries 128 of the 850 objects on the inventory are formally protected, 90% of which are private objects
The most valuable monuments on the list – both municipal and private – will be maintained and overhauled
Special inventory Inventory of swimming facilities Inventory of schoolsInventory of Protestant churches (in preparation)
Maintenance manuals, reports 82, of which:17 for schools5 for cemeteries22 for private villa gardens19 for municipal public grounds15 for other objects
for all new parksfor all municipal protected objectsfor the most valuable private heritage gardens
New high-quality GSZ objects and enhancements of open spaces
Various awards have been presented The excellent and exemplary design quality will be internationally recognised
Number of private-owned garden monuments that can be maintained in spite of redensification
No data available Data obtained, high maintenance rating
GSZ consultation with municipal or private building projects
No data available Good influence, high design quality assured, reporting set up
Quality-based processes for municipal or private open space projects
No data available For all important municipal projects, for building applications for private land on the GDP inventory, for all open spaces covered by special building regulations
Design of city image and public spaces
25 GDP publications (books, data sheets) Approx. 20 annual GDP toursApprox. 10 annual tours in new grounds
Appreciation of the high quality of open spaces will be enshrined Number of tours in valuable grounds will have increased
Public urban spaces 2010 Urban Space Strategy is available Strategy and measures implemented
107The Green Book of Zurich
Our F ie lds of Act ion
Design of Open Spaces and Horticultural Heritage Basic principles
Heritage gardensmaintained We are campaigning for the most important municipal and private heritage
gardens to be maintained and overhauled if necessary. Quality and targeted care is secured by heritage garden
maintenance reports and maintenance documents.
Awareness of design We are making landowners, builders and planners aware of the importance of quality in
the design of open spaces and drawing attention to historical, architectural and urban development references. We are
ensuring a high quality of design with municipal and private open spaces – on the one hand by means of quality processes
and on the other hand by targeted consultancy services.
Consultancyforprivate individuals We are setting up broad-based consultation for landowners and planners
in terms of the design and targeted development of their green spaces. The owners of listed historical gardens will obtain
support in dealing with their heritage gardens.
Focussingonchildrenandyoungpeople We are developing a concept for knowledge transfer that will appeal
appropriately to children and young people. Children are accessing horticulture in a fun and exciting way.
Publicrelationswork We are communicating the contemporary and historical design of open spaces in Zurich
to a broad audience and maintaining cooperation with the Zurich Tourist Office. Together with the respective
designers, we are applying for international design awards for exemplary open spaces.
Buildingupnetworks We are campaigning for the establishment of a Swiss network for horticulture.
109The Green Book of Zurich
Linking of subject areas within The Green Book, the Structure of GSZ and Sustainability
Basic principles
Par t ic ipat ion and Par tnerships
How can green spaces and open spaces be developed sustainably? The participation of those
involved is an important basic principle in the planning and implementation of local projects.
In the Zurich conurbation, the institutionalisation of interdisciplinary cooperation – relating also
to open space – will be a key task over the following years.
THE GREEN BOOK
Subject areas Page
Green and Open SpacesUrban landscape 31 Parks, squares and common land 37Designated open spaces 43Living and working environment 59Forests 65Agriculture 71
Basic principlesBiodiversity 79 Environment 85 Provision of Open Space 91Use of open space 97Design of open space and Horticultural heritage 103
Environmental EducationGreen Knowledge 117
The Company 135
STRUCTURE OF GSZ
Product groups and products
Understanding and promotion of natureEducation/ExperiencesExhibitionsNatural forest / Sihl Forest
Natural areas / open spacesRecreational forestCemeteriesParksGreen on the roadsSchoolyardsSports groundsSwimming facilitiesExtensive green spacesAgriculturePlanning of green/open spacesPlanning and construction of green and open spaces
Land / building management Leased land
ServicesConsultancy/MonitoringServices to other bodiesServices for third parties
Support products
Customer groups
Teachers/schoolchildren Researchers Recreational users Residents/employees Sportsmen and women Lessees/tenants Developers/planners
SUSTAINABILITY (MONET)
Claims
Social solidarityMeeting needsDevelopments that take into account well-beingIntegration of disadvantaged peopleIntercultural and interpersonal understandingSocial and political participationChild-friendly surroundings
Economic performance Promotion of research
Environmental responsibilityConservation of natureConservation of biodiversityEcological compensationValues of nature and the cultivated landscape
Indicators
Social solidarityMental well-being General satisfaction with life Identity-forming environment Satisfaction with the residential environment Recreational amenities in the residential environment Voluntary workOption to participate in local processes
Economic performanceExpenditure for research and development
Ecological responsibility Utilised agricultural area (UAA) Organic agriculture Consumption of organic products Diversity of agriculture and appearance of the landscape Diversity of land use and soil cover National nature reservesEcological compensation areas
Today …
110 The Green Book of Zurich
… green and open spaces are a scarce resource in the
city of Zurich and the conurbation. The demands on it are
many and diverse and the increasing pressure on land
use heightens the conflicts of objectives. Participatory
processes help to broadly support developments and to
gear them to meet needs. The experiences and demands of
user groups and the population are taken into consideration
at an early stage in the planning processes. By involving
them, the responsibility borne by those involved also
increases. Participation promotes mutual understanding
for cohabitation within an ever narrower space in the
long term. Zurich City Council stipulates that schemes
and projects must take place within a cooperative and
participatory climate.
ExperiencewithcooperativeinvolvementGSZ
has gathered a great deal of experience in cooperation
processes, for instance in the improvement of residential
surroundings. In recent years, large-scale developments
of open spaces have increasingly been planned using
cooperation processes, producing sustainable strategies.
Examples of large-scale participatory processes include
the Limmat area Landscape Development Concept and the
Brunau Allmend land use scheme.
Opportunities, as well as risks Experience with
open planning processes has shown that they offer major
opportunities but can also conceal certain risks. The will
to become involved is significant among the population –
but sometimes the willingness to find a consensus is not
evident to the same extent. Particular individual interests
can massively hinder such a process and the search for a
solution. Nevertheless, cooperation processes will continue
to be consciously used as the success and acceptance of
spatial development is based in the long term not only on
its design but also on the approach itself.
Interdisciplinary cooperation The conventional
sectoral procedures among the individual planning disciplines
are no longer enough. Spatial planning is increasingly reaching
its limits in densely populated conurbations. The strong
growth of residential areas and the increasing complexity of
demands require more comprehensive ways of looking at the
problem. To some extent there are good project-related signs
of this already. The exchange is becoming more intensive in
Landscape Development Concepts and other cross-community
projects. This applies particularly to the Sihltal, where all
of the communities in the district are involved in the Zurich
Wilderness Park. However systematic, overall agglomeration
planning is still lacking, something that can have a negative
effect on the landscape.
Partnerships GSZ maintains a broad-based network
with different partner groups, such as forest and land
owners, property investors, educational and research
institutions, district associations, neighbourhood watch
groups etc. The many different organisations involved with
the city’s green spaces were integrated into the Verbund
Lebensraum Zürich VLZ (Zurich Living Space Association).
They represent around 10,000 individual members. Further
partners include environmental organisations, animal
welfare groups, lobby groups, zoos and specifically also the
committees that advise the City Council. Voluntary work is
an important part of GSZ partnerships as well.
Successful cooperation GSZ works together with
all of these partner organisations for the green and natural
values of the urban landscape. Landowners and investors
are involved with parks, an Ecology Compensation
Model with Swiss Railways (SBB) and joint projects with
environmental organisations. Committees advise the City
Council in matters concerning natural and open spaces,
hunting and the Langenberg Wildlife Park. Individual
associations have a performance-related mandate that
they undertake for public green spaces. Universities are
continually submitting projects that they wish to develop
with and for GSZ. The Zurich Living Space Association VLZ is
developing into an opinion-forming organisation for living
space in Zurich and represents the interests of its member
associations.
Trustandacceptance One fundamental rule remains
unchanged in open planning processes, irrespective of the
form of cooperation of partnership: success is only possible
if there is mutual trust and a high degree of acceptance of
the differing concerns. This in turn requires active and open
communication.
Participation and Partnerships Basic principles
In 10 Years …
111The Green Book of Zurich
… the planning of open space in the city of Zurich will be integrated and outcome-orientated. By conducting itself openly
and constructively, GSZ will be an equal planning partner in all relevant urban development processes. Private investors
will take into account in their planning consultancy provided by GSZ on open spaces. Partner’s concerns will be integrated
by GSZ at an early stage into the planning process. The planning of the landscape, natural and recreational areas will be
enshrined in the agglomeration of Zurich. Different land use planning interests will be observed in the long term by fairly
balancing benefits and interests. Latitude in terms of planning will be retained for future generations.
Appreciationbymeansofjointdevelopments Plans will conform to needs and will be broad-based, decisions
will be transparent and made on the basis of openly declared criteria. Coexistence will have priority with conflicts of usage.
The population will be conscious of the value of green spaces as a limited resource. Dealing with public property will be
based on responsibility. The participatory development of ideas and projects that affect the common good will become the
universal standard. Objectives will be continuously examined and updated and measures will be balanced. Subsidies by
the city, for instance to landowners and forest owners, will require cooperatively devised work that will serve the common
good.
StrategicpartnershipsCooperation with partners will be diverse and mutual interests and benefits for both sides
will be the prerequisites. Environmental work will be aimed in the first instance at the residential population, employees
and visitors to the city. They will experience GSZ as a qualified service provider.
Cooperation with committees, environmental organisations and project planners will be expert, professional and
constructive.
GSZ will offer research topics to educational and research institutions in the Zurich conurbation and, with its green space,
GIS data and its Green Knowledge, will provide a wide range of services in the sense of a «green laboratory». Important
and innovative projects will be financially supported.
GSZ’s excellent work with associations, societies, landowners and forest-owners will be target-orientated and sustainable
and they will receive support for work that will benefit the community. Voluntary work will be established in a number of
different fields and will be much appreciated as such.
GSZ will be involved in interest groups, if this is instrumental in terms of their work and concerns. The Zurich Tourist Office
and the City Marketing department will use the “green environment” to advertise the city of Zurich.
MaintainingthenetworkThe network of partnerships will be up to date and partnerships will be selected on the
basis of their benefit-orientation and common goals and will be subject to regular monitoring of their outcomes.
Participation and Partnerships Basic principles
112The Green Book of Zurich
Participation and Partnerships Basic principles
INDICATORS TODAY OBJECTIVES FOR 10 YEARS FROM NOW
Involvement of GSZ in spatial planning within urban development
Largely institutionalised, in all regeneration and urban development areas
Early, with all planning relevant to open spaces
Inter-community planning of open space
Project-related with LEKs, WEPs and NEPs Large-scale institutionalised
Percentage of participatory processes in planning processes and GSZ projects
High percentage High percentage, high quality Zurich Urban Development cooperation mission statement taken into account
Implementation of objectives from participatory projects and review of performance
Not systematically recorded, available project-related Systematically recorded, high degree of influence
Consultancy for investors No data available Effective consultation, builders aware of nature and open space issues
Network of partnerships Diverse network Network continuously updated, strategic partners involved
PPP projects No data available High percentage, high quality on green land
113The Green Book of Zurich
Participation and Partnerships Basic principles
Our F ie lds of Act ion
Participation We are developing suitable projects in public open spaces by means of integrated participation
processes. We are approaching conflicts of objectives and competing claims among interest groups in an open manner.
Precise framework conditions and expertise and decision-making processes are known.
Communication We are maintaining active communication with all affected parties.
Performance analysis We are analysing the efficiency of cooperation and measures taken and are continuously
improving them.
Subsidies We are linking public subsidies to participatory and cooperatively developed objectives; work for the
common good is supported.
RepresentationofopenspaceissuesWe are involved at a early stage in all key urban development planning
processes, even involving larger private investments.
Cooperation in the agglomeration We promote interregional cooperation with our neighbours in relation to
open space and the landscape and support the Regionalplanung Zürich und Umgebung RZU (Zurich Regional Planning
body) in its work.
Expansion of partnerships We are extending our network with key strategic partners who share the same
objectives, particularly building cooperatives.
PPP projects We are seeking to cooperate to work towards the common good through public-private partnership
projects and are increasing our influence on the quality of green spaces.
Environmental Educat ion
117The Green Book of Zurich
Green Knowledge
Environmental Education
THE GREEN BOOK
Subject areas Page
Green and Open SpacesParks, squares and common land 37Designated open spaces 43Living and working environment 59Forests 65Agriculture 71
Basic principlesBiodiversity 79Environment 85Use of open space 97Design of open space and horticultural heritage 103Participation and partnerships 109
The Company 135
STRUCTURE OF GSZ
Product groups and products
Understanding and promotion of natureEducation/ExperiencesExhibitionsGame husbandryProtection of game/birdsPromotion of species and habitatsNatural forest / Sihl Forest
Natural areas / open spacesRecreational forestAgriculture
ServicesConsultancy/Monitoring
Support products
Customer groups
Teachers/schoolchildren Researchers Recreational users Residents/employees
SUSTAINABILITY (MONET)
Claims
Social solidarityPromoting healthSatisfaction and happinessIntercultural and interpersonal understandingDevelopment of human capitalPromotion of learning abilityChild-friendly surroundings
Economic performance Promotion of researchEnvironmentally-friendly production
Environmental responsibilityConservation of natureConservation of biodiversityEcological compensationValues of nature and the cultivated landscape
Indicators
Social solidarityLife expectancy in good health Health-relevant behaviour, physical activities Identity-forming environment Voluntary work
Economic performanceExpenditure for research and development
Ecological responsibility Organic agriculture Consumption of organic products Market percentage of non-food products with «eco» labelsContamination of the soil with heavy metals and PAHDiversity of species National nature reservesEcological compensation areas
As the importance of education for social development increases, so too does knowledge
about sustainability get an ever incresing importance. The active and contemporary
communication of knowledge is right at the heart of the GSZ’s Green Knowledge programme:
awareness of biodiversity, awareness of green issues, the environment and health, the
maintenance of green space in harmony with nature and design expertise for sustainable
development. GSZ focuses the implementation of these objectives on Nature Schools,
the Zurich Wildnerness Park, the Municipal Botanical Garden and the Succulent Plant Collection.
Linking of subject areas within The Green Book, the Structure of GSZ and Sustainability
118 The Green Book of Zurich
Green Knowledge is a collective term for the different
activities provided by GSZ relating to environmental
education and the communication of nature and
horticulture in all its possible facets. Over and above the
planning, design and maintenance of green spaces and
open spaces, Green Knowledge plays a further important
strategic role. Its pioneering work includes so-called
Nature Schools, which have been offering education on
the environment to children and young people for over
20 years.
In our knowledge-based society, attractively communicated
information about the interrelationships in nature and
audience-appropriate experiences and communication
provide a pivotal social challenge. Life-long learning,
combined with recreation, enjoyment and experiences
in the natural world, form the basis for being able to
communicate the importance of sustainable development.
Modern forms of environmental education are not based
on threat scenarios. In the forefront are design options
and people’s respectful attitude to Nature. To this end GSZ
offers a broad range of attractive options for many groups
from all walks of life.
A very recent field of involvement by GSZ is the conscious
and targeted handling of “green emotions”. The often close
relationship of individuals with a tree, allotment, a species
of animal or plant etc., again and again triggers intensive
feelings. The constructive and cooperative dealing with
these feelings is a challenging duty that we set ourselves.
GSZ’s specialist knowledge covers around 25 different
“green” environmental job descriptions – a unique diversity
of knowledge that is worth maintaining and developing.
Systematic analysis has produced the following
performance factors for Green Knowledge: relationship to
a person’s living space in Zurich, sensitivity to biodiversity,
awareness of green issues and health, production and
maintenance in harmony with nature, responsible actions
and involvement.
Green Knowledge Environmental Education
Green Knowledge Today …
INDICATORS TODAY OBJECTIVES FOR 10 YEARS FROM NOW
Knowledge transfer Customer contacts: approx. 150,000/yearInternet hits: 235,000/year“Grünzeit” magazine: 4 times per year, 18,000 copies
Approx. 300,000/year 500,000/yearRetained
Biodiversity gfs. bern 2005
227% of the Swiss population regards biodiversity as being important
50% of the population of the city of Zurich regards biodiversity as being meaningful
Greenness and health No data available on awareness Awareness reinforced
Involvement Donations: CHF 150,000.00 (sponsorship, contributions to projects)Funding/sponsorship associations: 1,200 members
CHF 750,000.004,000 members
119The Green Book of Zurich
Green Knowledge will be firmly enshrined as a socially-relevant concept within the framework of education for
sustainable development. With its Green Knowledge, the city of Zurich will play a pioneering role as a city of knowledge
and education and will play an exemplary role.
There will be regular discussions between the population and GSZ employees. With their specialist knowledge, all
employees of GSZ will become appreciated communicators of nature by the population. This applies especially to
their sensitive, serious dealing with green emotions.
The range of content and communications processes in terms of Green Knowledge will be up to date. The use of
modern media will be just as much a matter of course as close local experiences. All age groups will be appealed to,
with special regard for people who, to date have had little interest in environmental issues.
Relationship with their living space: Zurich’s inhabitants will know and appreciate the wide and diverse range of
“green” products and services. Their relationship to green spaces will be strong and they will identify highly with the
urban landscape.
Sensitivity to biodiversity: The inhabitants of the city will have a high degree of awareness of biodiversity and know
its various aspects. The city of Zurich will be appreciated for its different habitats with its diversity of animal and
plant species.
Regard for environmental issues and health: Residents and the working population will know and appreciate the
opportunities for exercise in the green spaces. The function and importance of forests and other green land for clean
air and clean water will also be known.
Production and maintenance in harmony with nature: Local natural products from organic farms will be known and
popular as a contribution to an intact environment and healthy nutrition. The awareness of the upkeep of green
spaces in harmony with nature and the value of healthy soils will be enshrined.
Responsible actions and involvement: There will be excellent expertise on the part of the population in dealing with
their living environment in a sustainable way. Many volunteers and residents will support environmentally conscious
and responsible behaviour.
Green Knowledge Environmental Education
Green Knowledge in 10 Years …
Our F ie lds of Act ion
Targetgroups We appeal to different target groups using suitable methods.
Cityofeducation We are making a key contribution to Zurich as a city of education and knowledge.
HealthycityWe are positioning our efforts to promote health as an integral part of the overall strategy for a “Healthy
City”.
Partnerships We are specifically seeking new partnerships to communicate Green Knowledge and encourage the
involvement of volunteers.
120 The Green Book of Zurich
Green Knowledge Environmental Education
Knowledge Transfer Today …
GSZ is drawing attention to hidden beauties and important
interrelationships in dealing with nature with a wide range of
services.
Unsupervised facilities: Exhibitions, learning and experience
paths and other facilities can be used independently and
individually.
Events: In the classroom, children can enjoy a number of
different nature experience days, take advantage of holiday
pass offers and enjoy animals in the Langenberg Wildlife
Park with their families. Adults can choose from a wide range
of tours, talks and excursions. The annual “Grünumgang”
organised specifically for politicians and the “GrünForum” for
a general audience are well-established events. Partnership
events, such as the “Glow Worm Festival” with people
involved in the cultural sector tap a broader audience.
Steering measures, such as “respect” in the Letten riverside
area demonstrate behaviour in line with nature without the
need for prohibitions.
Campaigns: Bundling branches for the burning of the Böögg,
forest clean-ups with classes of schoolchildren or planting,
maintenance and weeding activities offer the opportunity for
people to become specifically involved.
Media: The quarterly “Grünzeit” (lit. Green Times) magazine, a
regularly updated website with the popular “Falcon live cam”,
fact sheets and books communicate the concerns of GSZ.
Advice: Builder-owners and gardeners are advised on the
topics of nature and horticulture.
Further education and training: Internal further training
ensures the expertise of all employees. The transfer of
Green Knowledge to landowners, vocational schools and an
exchange with research and teaching is beneficial for both
sides.
Partnership and support: “Nahreisen” (lit. Journeys in the
Neighbourhood) or “Schule auf dem Bauernhof” (lit. School
on the Farm) are activities that are supported by partnerships
involved. GSZ supports organisations that communicate
Green Knowledge, such as “Natur liegt nahe” (lit. Nature lies
Close) or the Hedgehog Centre.
121The Green Book of Zurich
Knowledge Transfer in 10 Years …
GSZ will offer innovative services that will appeal to the primary preferences of the most diverse and varied target groups
in order to link these in surprising and unconventional ways to issues of nature. A network of voluntary helpers will support
these efforts.
Horticultural heritage will be perceived and appreciated as a living part of urban history and development.
School and schoolchildren’s gardens, School on the Farm and an area of forest for each school building will create a direct
link to natural products. Expertise in dealing with Nature will come from working in nature.
Content on Green Knowledge and a summary of current events will be clearly laid out online.
Green Knowledge Environmental Education
Our F ie lds of Act ion
ExhibitionsWe are drawing attention to the unique features of Nature with permanent and changing exhibitions in
our education centres.
Tours,excursionsWe offer tours and excursions in order to bring Green Knowledge closer to the people.
SchoolforestWe are promoting emotional links, responsibilities and design expertise by transferring the rights and
work on an allocated area of forest to schools.
Events We are linking Green Knowledge to the most wide and varied topics, in order to appeal to the public in an
attractive and surprising way.
SupportWe support organisations and associations and work closely together with volunteers.
Preservation of heritage gardens We are making available information schemes and inventory lists and
are setting up specialist consultation in terms of maintenance and design for private owners of listed gardens.
INDICATORS TODAY OBJECTIVES FOR 10 YEARS FROM NOW
Tours and excursions 80 annually 100 annually
Exhibitions Approx. 10 annually Retained
Cooperation with partners and volunteers
Partnerships with School on the Farm, Pro Natura, Nature lies Close, Hedgehog Centre etc.
Cooperation strengthenedInvolvement of volunteers increased
School gardens and school forests
School gardens: 37School forest: no land to date
Maintained, activity increasedLand within school premises: 5
122 The Green Book of Zurich
With its well-established Nature Schools, GSZ offers a
well-respected schedule of environmental education and
teaching about Nature.
Every year over 10,000 children from Zurich spend one
day in the natural world, usually in the forest. This direct
contact allows them to enjoy lasting emotional, social and
ecological experiences. Children and young people can
gather their own experiences and deepen their relationship
with Nature and their understanding of natural processes.
The discovery of the diversity of animals and plants and
their specific needs encourages them to deal with Nature in
a respectful manner.
Nature Schools are aimed at schoolchildren in the city of
Zurich – from kindergarten right through to school-leavers.
This ensures that children from all walks of life are included.
School on the Farm, a joint project with the Teacher Training
College, the Swiss Farmers’ Association and the Canton,
allows schoolchildren to have contact with animals and
work on a farm.
Nature Schools Today …
Green Knowledge Environmental Education
123The Green Book of Zurich
Schoolchildren will be able to have direct experiences in the local countryside. Regard for the ecosystems of animals
and plants, as well as respectful dealing with Nature and resources, will make a fundamental contribution to education
about sustainable development. The various Nature Schools will be set up to be modular and will be coordinated with
each other. Age-appropriate preparation of the topics will ensure that it will be successfully communicated.
Pre-school children will improve their balance and motor skills in uneven natural spaces full of obstacles, whilst at
the same time their interest in Nature will be awakened. In the early years at school, play-based experiences will
deepen children’s relationship with nature and will awaken their empathy. Primary school children will learn about
the idiosyncrasies and cycles of nature through investigation and analysis. Evaluation and judgement will lead upper
school children to a greater understanding of fundamental interrelationships.
Teachers and assistants will benefit from the knowledge and expertise of the Nature Schools, thereby enhancing
the effects of their teaching about nature.
Nature Schools in 10 Years …
Green Knowledge Environmental Education
INDICATORS TODAY OBJECTIVES FOR 10 YEARS FROM NOW
Forest schools Sihl Forest since 1986Adlisberg since 1989Hönggerberg since 1992Daily provision per year: 389 Retained
Common land school since 1994 in the warmer monthsDay/half-day provision per year: 69
Annual operating times lengthenedextended
Wildlife Park school since 1998Half-day provision per year: 102
Retained, integrated into the Nature Experience Park
School on the Farm Daily provision per year: 6 Half-day provision per year: 27
ExtendedExtended
Mobile Nature Schools since 2002Day/half-day provision per year: 76 Extended
Offers for teachers and assistants
Courses: 15 Extended
Appreciation of Nature Schools 2004 GSZ Balance of effects
Experience value for schoolchildren:Importance: 5,8 (out of a maximum of 6) Satisfaction: 5,5 (out of a maximum of 6)
Learning value for schoolchildren:Importance: 5,3 (out of a maximum of 6) Satisfaction: 5,2 (out of a maximum of 6)
Satisfaction corresponds to importance
Satisfaction corresponds to importance
Our F ie lds of Act ion
ProvisionWe are extending the educational content and the range of teaching units of the Nature Schools on offer.
DevelopmentWe are developing a scheme for ideally linking the individual teaching units in order to achieve as large
an overall effect as possible.
124 The Green Book of Zurich
The city of Zurich has a globally unique institution with its
Succulent Plant Collection. The care of a large number of
threatened succulent plants and the scientific standards
practised there have helped it to achieve high international
acclaim. The Succulent Plant Collection is increasingly
moving toward the more modern demands of experience
and education. Amongst the 35,000 visitors to the collection
every year, many are interested people from abroad.
It has been located on the Mythenquai for 75 years and
has been extended in several phases to its current state.
However, it is becoming increasingly evident that the lack of
space makes it impossible to provide attractive amenities
for a wider public and therefore a large potential for varied
activities and economic marketing lies untapped. Both
the state of the facilities, as well as the infrastructure,
are inadequate for contemporary exhibitions and efficient
working. A more large-scale redesign is in the planning.
The future design will offer an opportunity to utilise the
potential of the Succulent Plant Collection to enhance the
left bank of the lake. The supporting association provides
support in terms of ideas, materials and information.
The Succulent Plant Col lect ion Today …
Green Knowledge Environmental Education
125The Green Book of Zurich
A uniquely fascinating world of succulent plants will be displayed at a unique location by the lake. It will offer visitors an
outstanding experience in a modern glazed architecturally-designed building. With the addition of cultural events and
eating facilities, the Succulent Plant Collection will be attractive to the population and visitors from throughout the world.
As a unique centre of excellence, the Succulent Plant Collection will look after and cultivate plants in accordance with
scientific criteria. It will work by involving the countries of origin in maintaining global biodiversity and will communicate
the importance of this. The natural science-based backbone of the herbarium and the specialist library will be open to the
public.
The Succulent Plant Col lect ion in 10 Years …
Green Knowledge Environmental Education
INDICATORS TODAY OBJECTIVES FOR 10 YEARS FROM NOW
Annual visitor figures 35,000 80,000 In accordance with reorientation, incl. eating facilities
Number of threatened species 80% of the most threatened succulent plants worldwide Retained
Supporting association members
400 600
Our F ie lds of Act ion
OperatingconceptWe are developing an operating concept for the restructuring of the Succulent Plant Collection.
Exhibitions We are creating experience landscapes in different climatic zones that can be visited on foot. We are
presenting the communities of species based on in-depth science and with massive potential for discovery.
ExperiencesWe celebrate special events, such as the flowering of the Queen of the Night, for visitors.
Infrastructure We support the project for the construction of a new facility with integral eating and conference
amenities.
Networking with universities We maintain close national and international cooperation, particularly in terms
of the preparation of plant material for the purpose of scientific studies.
126 The Green Book of Zurich
The Municipal Botanical Garden is unique in many respects:
The Palm Garden and display houses are a secret location
for people looking for rest and relaxation in the Albisrieden
district. The production areas in the greenhouses and the
large area of cultivated land are used for the production
of specialist plants. This unusual link between plant
production and recreation unfolds a special charm of its
own. Significant parts of the grounds are of importance
as listed monuments and horticultural heritage. A large
number of the greenhouses no longer meet current
standards in terms of safety and environmental friendliness
and are in need of renovation. The site is not suitable for
competitive plant production. It is therefore essential to
develop new and opportune forms of use.
The planned redirection is aiming for a closer link between
education and production and the existing infrastructure
could be adapted for this at relatively low cost. There is also
a major need for an educational site, in which the theory
can be taught and practical work can be undertaken.
The Municipal Botanical G arden Today …
Green Knowledge Environmental Education
127The Green Book of Zurich
Plant production closely linked to further education and training will be established. The Municipal Botanical Garden
will be a well-known location, used in many different ways for a variety of horticultural educational purposes. Families
and leisure gardeners, householders, trainees and private individuals interested in horticulture will find a range of
practical further education courses here.
The cultivation of traditional and rare varieties of fruit, ornamental plants and vegetables will meet with widespread
interest. With certain species of plant, it will be possible to sow and look after ones “own” seedlings, for instance for
school gardens. Seedling markets with old varieties will be popular and known throughout a wide area.
There will be special courses and final apprenticeship examinations for “green” professions. Young people embarking
on a career or taking a gap year will find opportunities here to gain practical horticultural experience, at best combined
with other courses.
There will be a wide range of pick-your-own in the herb and tea garden, providing an incentive to imitate this at other
locations throughout the city. The Garden will be looked after by students and volunteers.
The inhabitants of the district will appreciate and use the unique relaxation space in the Palm Garden and the various
display houses.
The Municipal Botanical G arden in 10 Years …
Green Knowledge Environmental Education
INDICATORS TODAY OBJECTIVES FOR 10 YEARS FROM NOW
Education days Approx. 25 150, of which 100 by external providers
External education partners Migros Club Schools, Professional Gardeners Guild (Gärtnermeisterverband), ProSpecieRara, Bioterra
Extended
Visitors per year to display houses and Palm Garden
20,000 25,000
Events Events and exhibitions: approx. 15 30
Value of exhibitionsGSZ 2004 Balance of effects
Importance: 5.3 (out of a maximum of 6) Satisfaction: 5.4 (out of a maximum of 6)
Satisfaction corresponds to importance
Our F ie lds of Act ion
Range of courses We are organising further education and training courses combining theory and practical work.
The range of courses is aimed primarily at adults but also at young people in education.
Expert advice We offer advice and publications to communicate Green Knowledge, particularly in relation to the
upkeep and maintenance of green spaces in harmony with nature.
Exhibitions We are presenting attractive exhibitions about crops and ornamental plants to the public.
Redesign We are developing an operating scheme for structurally adapting the infrastructure.
128 The Green Book of Zurich
A natural forest scarcely affected by man has grown on
an area of around 1,000 ha in the Sihl Forest – a total
forest reserve, in which the free dynamic of nature can be
experienced and observed. The conservation area is known
across Europe as the “wilderness at the gates of the city”.
The wildlife that lives today and formerly lived in our
countryside can be seen in the Langenberg Wildlife Park.
Experiences in nature, relaxation and education about
Nature all play a key role in the Sihl Forest and in the
Wildlife Park. Research projects promote knowledge about
the untouched dynamic of natural spaces and wild animals.
Around 20,000 visitors every year are informed about the
Sihl Forest and are made aware of concerns about Nature by
exhibitions and an attractive annual programme in the Sihl
Forest Visitor Centre. The animal enclosures in the Wildlife
Park and Nature Centre offer around 300,000 visitors per
year an impressive experience of Nature and bring people
out into the natural world.
S ihl Forest and Langenberg Wildl i fe Park Today …
Green Knowledge Environmental Education
129The Green Book of Zurich
The Sihl Forest and Langenberg Wildlife Park will jointly form the Wildnispark Zürich (Zurich Wilderness Park), a nationally
recognised Nature Experience Park over an area of 1,100 ha with additional potential for expanding.
At its very core will be unique experiences in nature for the population in a natural forest and in dealing with wild animals.
Attention will be drawn to the free dynamic of Nature and the livelihoods and ecosystems of animals and plants. In addition
the Nature Experience Park will be a large-scale peaceful area for relaxation and slowing down – a contrast to the hustle
and bustle of the city. The Zurich Wilderness Park will be involved in education for sustainable development.
The Visitor Centre and Wildlife Park will represent transition zones and entry ports to the wilderness. A wide range of
cultural events and restaurants and “nature shops” will draw in the urban population.
Nature Exper ience Park in 10 Years …
Green Knowledge Environmental Education
INDICATORS TODAY OBJECTIVES FOR 10 YEARS FROM NOW
Research work Dissertations: 3 per year Theses: 1 in 10 years
3 per year 1 every 2 years
Educational courses Courses: 25 Tours and excursions: 160Animal messengers: 40 daysVisitors to exhibitions: 6,000
Retained300Extended with forest visits/rangersIncreased
Animal enclosures Species of wild animal: 17 22
Appreciation of the Langenberg Wildlife ParkGSZ 2004 Balance of effects
Experience value: 5.2 (out of a maximum of 6) Satisfaction: 5.1 (out of a maximum of 6)
Satisfaction corresponds to importance
Partnerships Pro Natura, Sihl Forest Natural Landscape Foundation, Swiss Zoo Society, Locational and Business Promotion Zimmerberg-Sihltal
Increased with most important strategic partners
Voluntary involvement in the Zurich Wilderness Park ZWP
Animal sponsorship: 240Donations to the ZWP: CHF 30,000.00/yearMembers of support associations: 800
350 CHF 500,000/year3,000
Our F ie lds of Act ion
Nationalrecognition We are campaigning jointly with our partners for national recognition as a Nature Experience
Park.
ExperiencesinNatureandeducationWe are opening visitors’ eyes to new outlooks about nature and adventure.
We offer an attractive education programme and special courses for school classes.
HabitatsWe show how the landscape is affected by wild animals, such as elk and European bison etc.
ResearchWe are analysing together with universities and the Zurich Wilderness Park Research Committee natural processes
scarcely influenced by people and the value of species and experiences in the Wilderness Park. A long-term scientific monitoring
process is being set up for this purpose. We present visitors with the content and results of the research.
InnovationbypartnershipsWe are opening up innovative fields with new strategic partnerships.
InformationcentresWe are further developing the Visitor Centre and Langenberg Nature Park to become multifaceted,
interactive worlds of experience for urban people.
130 The Green Book of Zurich
The management of municipal green and open spaces in
harmony with nature was defined in 1995 by the City Council
in an Administrative Regulation (Verwaltungsverordnung
VVO) and was put into practice. Over and above GSZ,
the regulation obliges around a dozen other municipal
departments, as well as leisure gardeners and allotment
gardeners, to maintain the city’s green spaces in harmony
with nature. Many changes have taken place since then,
nevertheless there remains, now as before, a need for
training and advice, in order to implement the objectives
contained in the regulation.
Private green spaces in the city are not affected by the
Administrative Regulation as there is no legal basis for
enforcing management in harmony with nature. In spite of
this much can be achieved by good specialist consultancy
being given.
Much of the information provided demonstrates the
correlations of maintenance in harmony with nature
and the population generally accepts these very well.
Generally there is awareness of the significance and value
of indigenous plants and animals. Pleasing success of the
efforts already undertaken is the increased prevalence of
glow worms, celebrated in 2005 with thousands of visitors
to the Glow Worm Festival.
Training courses are organised within GSZ, as only by
understanding the interrelationships are people able to
go the extra mile for chemical-free maintenance and care.
Volunteers are also employed for time-consuming weeding.
Organic agriculture and forestry management in compliance
with the standards of Forest Stewardship Council FSC have
been at a very high level for quite some time.
Product ion and Maintenance in Harmony with Nature …
Green Knowledge Environmental Education
131The Green Book of Zurich
Landowners and land managers, especially tenants and the municipal offices and departments, will recognise the
importance of the upkeep of green spaces in harmony with nature and will comply with the guidelines of the Administrative
Regulation. GSZ will support with consultancy and information.
Vocational training and ongoing further training will guarantee an excellent quality of ecological orientation. Knowledge
about organic agriculture and FSC forestry management will be enshrined.
The retention of soil fertility will be assured by training and advice to ensure careful dealing with the soil.
Product ion and Maintenance in Harmony
with Nature in 10 Years …
Green Knowledge Environmental Education
INDICATORS TODAY OBJECTIVES FOR 10 YEARS FROM NOW
Cultivation in harmony with nature based on the Administrative Regulation (VVO)
GSZ: 100%Other municipal departments: approx. 70%Tenants of allotments and recreational gardens: approx. 60%Private landowners: No data available
Retained100%100%Cultivation in harmony with nature
Further education courses for the maintenance of green spaces in harmony with nature
Course days/year: 5 30
Percentage of FSC management of the forests within the metropolitan area
In the city-owned forests: 100%In forests owned by others: 95%
100% 100%
Management 250 ha are managed organically (27% of UAA), the remainder in accordance with the Ecological Proof of Performance (öLN)9 out of 36 farms produce organically, 8 of which are municipal leased farms
Ecological Proof of Performance (öLN) will be standard, an above-average percentage is organically managed,all municipal leased farms will be managed in line with organic guidelines,organic farms are preferred when leasing UAA to third parties
Our F ie lds of Act ion
AllotmentsandrecreationalgardensWe train and advise our tenants in the management of land in harmony
with nature and implement the guidelines contractually.
MunicipaldepartmentsWe are working closely with municipal departments to ensure the consistent maintenance
of green spaces in harmony with nature.
PrivatelandmanagementWe are motivating private landowners to manage and maintain their land in harmony
with nature by means of a range of active information and training activities.
Employees We are promoting the expertise of GSZ employees in the maintenance and management of land in
harmony with nature.
TeachingWe are enshrining the “green” maintenance of land by vocational further education and training.
The Company
135The Green Book of Zurich
The Company
GSZ – The Company
The political agenda of the Head of the Civil Engineering and Waste Disposal Department for Grün Stadt Zürich (GSZ) is as
follows:
“Greenandopenspacesplayasignificantroleinthequalityoflifeinthecityof
Zurich.GSZisresponsibleforensuringtherequiredqualityofgreencityspaceand
willguaranteethefollowing:
> Relaxation
> Leisureandrecreation
> ExperiencesinNature
> Conservationofnatureandthecountryside
> Securingoflandreserves
ThestrategicandoperationaltasksofGSZanditsvariousbusinessunitsarederived
fromtheseoverridingobjectives.Withinthisframework,GSZoptimisesitsprofitability
andworkstowardsprovidingbenefitstoitscustomers.”
Since its amalgamation in 2001, GSZ has continued to develop its organisational form. Together with over 300 employees,
corporate and management mission statements have been defined at a number of different group events. These have also
given rise to the slogan:
“Zurich blossoms where we are working – we create quality of life.”
Wo wir arbeiten, blüht Zürich – wir schaffen Lebensqualität.
The Green Book is the systematic continuation of this process with formulated objectives for the next 10 years and strategic
fields of action to implement them.
Process Management The Company
Integral Planning
GSZ ConceptsLandscape Development Concept (LEK)Development/Regeneration areasForest Development Plan (WEP)Nature Around Schools (NUS)Use of Parks / Brunau AllmendNatural Experience ParkHorticultural Heritage (GDP)Promotion of Nature/Ecological NetworkingGreen KnowledgeAvenues/Trees in the Streets/Green on the RoadsAgricultureThe Succulent Plant CollectionThe Municipal Botanical Garden and NurseryHealthy SoilsRiverbanks / LakesideAllotments / Recreational GardensCemeteriesOccupational safety / HealthFurther education / TrainingPartnerships / NetworkEnvironmental managementFinancial planning / Investment planningCommunication / ExhibitionsSubsidiesPromotion of the planting of fruit treesGIS ConceptThe CompanyVehicles / EquipmentOther Concepts
GSZ Bases/ databasesInventory of green landInventory of street treesInventory of fruit treesInventory of playgroundsInventory of Gardens Worth ProtectionInventory of Nature Conservation (KSO)Inventory of Meadow/Forest RoadsLessees/TenantsAddress filesProvision of Open Spaces by the City of ZurichNature value indexArchivesSucculent Plant CollectionMaintenance documentsGSZ libraryInventory of building applicationsInventory of circulationsReport on Ecological CompensationManagement Information Systems (MIS)Cost/Performance Calculation Inventory of benchesInventory of vehicles/equipmentInventory of PropertyContracts/Service agreementsCorporate HandbookOther bases/databases
External Bases/DatabasesNoise RegisterOfficial SurveyMunicipal PropertiesPublic opinion surveysStatistical dataGeo ServerConfederation/Canton inventoriesSustainability model (MONET)SBB Ecological Compensation ModelEnvironmental AtlasDirectory of Paths and TrailsOther bases/databases
Concepts/Strategies outside GSZStream Concept ERZMobility Culture TAZUrban Development Concepts AfSSports Strategy SPASafety/CleanlinessEvents Strategy PDEnergy Master PlanEnvironment Policy UGZZüri-WC Master Plan UGZHealth Policy UGZEnhancement of District CentresOther Concepts
PG Understanding and promotion of natureEducation/ExperiencesExhibitionsRearing of wild animalsProtection of wild animals/birdsPromotion of species and habitatsNatural forest / Sihl Forest
PG Natural areas / open spacesRecreational forestCemeteriesParksGreen on the roadsSchoolyardsSports groundsSwimming facilitiesExtensive cultivation of green spacesAgriculturePlanning of green/open spacesPlanning and construction
PG Land / building managementLeased landAgricultural leasesLeased property
PG Natural productsForestry productsChristmas treesHorticultural productsAgricultural products
PG ServicesConsultancy/MonitoringServices to other bodiesServices for third parties
Support productsPersonnel managementFinancial managementQuality managementLegal advicePublic Relations work
Zurich City Council SpecificationsBy-laws Legislature focal pointsPolitical order VTE/Legislature objectives TEDGlobal budget/Financial plan/IAFPZurich Vision 2025Housekeeping ManualCity Council resolution tasks DABuilding/Zoning Ordinance (BZO)Urban Spaces 2010Employee lawOther specifications
External InfluencesEconomic situationEnvironmental pollutionChanging needsAppreciation of natureLeisure behaviourQuality and attractiveness of locationOther external influences
Specifications from Confederation/CantonStructure planningForestry Act (Waldgesetz, WAG)Agriculture Act (Landwirtschaftsgesetz LWG)Nature and Heritage Conservation Act (NHG)Biodiversity/Rural landscape 2020Spatial Planning Act (RPG)Environmental Conservation Act (USG)Planning/Building Act (PBG)Future of Environmental Education in Switzerland (EDK)Overall Nature Conservation ConceptHunting ActOther specifications
Green and Open SpacesBasic principlesEnvironmental EducationThe Company
Objectives/Strategies
NPM Products
Balance of effectsSatisfaction/Importance
Benchmarking/EFQM/ISO 14 001
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136 The Green Book of Zurich
The Company
Process Management
Integralplanning–whatdoesitmean?Cemeteries, forests and wildlife, horticulture, landscape development,
sports grounds, species promotion, Nature Schools, tree-lined avenues – all of these specialist areas have their own
planning regulations. The time periods and content vary but the planning regulations are standardised. Why then plan
integrally? The reasons for this are as follows:
> The processes are more effective if they are designed in an integral manner and are completed in closed cycles.
> If specialist planning documents are coordinated with each other unambiguously, the disadvantages of the sectoral
method employed to date can be overcome.
> Integral planning and action promotes interlinked thinking and is geared towards the needs of the users.
The most important process steps are outlined in the “Integral Planning” process management. The darker arrows indicate
the main directions, with the lighter arrows indicating feedback.
Overriding specifications and external influences GSZ bases its work on overriding guidelines, observes
changes with external influences and is actively involved in the design of the guidelines where this is sensible
Objectives/Strategies Long-term objectives, together with strategic focal points and fields of action, specify the
most important ways forward into the future. They serve as guidelines for the shorter-term schemes and are implemented
by the product managers.
ConceptsConcepts encompass specific technical and subject areas over a period of 4 to 6 years. These stipulate guidelines
for product management and indicate links within integral planning. GSZ continuously examines its own concepts and updates
them in accordance with changing requirements.
Principles/DatabasesQualified principles are needed for qualified planning. Databases and GIS applications are
systematically updated in accordance with internal GSZ specifications. Municipal employees can access the key data
directly.
New public management structure products GSZ products are the key elements of annual planning and
financial control. They serve as accounting units in which the contract and profit can be identified. The products are
controlled by product-performance agreements which are agreed annually anew with specific target and measurement
figures.
The products are divided into five product groups. The global budget is submitted at this level and the annual financial
statement generated.
Effects balance Success has various dimensions for GSZ. It is judged by customer satisfaction and the quality
achieved, taking into account profitability. GSZ regularly monitors outcomes for the most important products and their
most significant stakeholders. This defines the satisfaction and importance of the work performed and defines principles
for improvement where quality exceeds or falls below what is required. Findings flow into product control and into the
company’s strategies.
Benchmarking / EFQM / ISO Benchmarks and operating comparisons are important for self evaluation and act as
stimuli for changes. Generally used tools, such as EFQM and ISO 14110, are used over and above sector-specific exchanges
of experiences. The findings flow into the company’s strategies.
137The Green Book of Zurich
138The Green Book of Zurich
BU
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Outcome-orientated action
Process Management The Company
Service provider (who)
Input
BU Promotion of nature Nature schools Conservation of nature Succulent Plant Collection
BU Wilderness/AnimalsSihl ForestWildlife conservation reservesLangenberg Wildlife Park:
BU Planning/ConstructionProject management/ConstructionOpen space planningConsultation on open spacesMaintenance of heritage gardens
BU MaintenanceHöngg/GrünauAffoltern/SeebachOerlikon/SchwamendingenNordheim CemeteryWipkingen/Fluntern/Unter-/OberstrassOld town on the left bank of the Limmat/EngeHottingen/RiesbachWitikon/Enzenbühl Cemetery/RehalpWollishofen/LeimbachAltstetten/AlbisriedenSihlfeldWiedikon/Aussersihl
BU OperationsAgriculture/Leased property/Rented propertyJuchhof estateUetliberg ForestNorth ForestMunicipal Botanical GardenDecoration/Indoor greeneryWorkshops/Logistics
Customers
City’s inhabitantsCity ParliamentCity Council/GovernmentDepartment Head
Support process
Clients (for whom)
Demand
CG Teachers/schoolchildren Teachers/schoolchildren Children/young people Societies/People interested in nature School authorities/Office for Schools
CG ResearchersUniversities/Research centres
CG People seeking peace and relaxationIndividual people/familiesAssociationsTourists
CG Residents/employeesOffice for PopulationPeople living in the districtEmployees/Commuters
CG Sports peopleOffice for Sport/Sports associationsIndividual sportsmen and women
CG Lessees/tenantsTenants/TravellersLeaseholders/LandlordsGarden tenantsDistrict groups
CG Purchasers of goodsPurchasers of agricultural productsPurchasers of timber productsPurchasers of plants/flowers
CG Developers/PlannersPlanners/InvestorsMunicipalityConfederation/Canton/Conurbation
Services (what)(NPM products)
Output Offers
PG Understanding and promotion of nature Education/Experiences Exhibitions Rearing of wild animals Protection of wild animals/birds Promotion of species and habitats Natural forest / Sihl Forest
PG Natural areas / open spacesRecreational forestCemeteriesParksGreen on the roadsSchoolyardsSports groundsSwimming facilitiesExtensive green spacesAgriculturePlanning of green/open spacesPlanning and construction of green and open spaces
PG Spatial and building managementLeased landAgricultural leasesLeased property
PG Natural productsForestry productsChristmas treesHorticultural productsAgricultural products
PG ServicesConsultancy/MonitoringServices to other bodiesServices for third parties
Grün Stadt Zürich, Management
Primary process
Support (back office)Personnel managementFinancial managementQuality management
Legal advicePublic relations work
139The Green Book of Zurich
Process Management The Company
Outcome-orientated management – what is it all about? New public management and the overall budget
have a major influence on performance targets. The question as to what demands must be satisfied is at the very forefront
and replaces the budget-optimisation mentality.
GSZ has sought binding comprehensible processes for its organisational development. The main process is based on
provision and demand, that is to say the interplay between performance and those on the receiving end of the performance:
> Provision: Who does what for whom?
> Demand: Who wants what from whom?
The management tools are parts of this cycle and support this transmission.
Who provides the services? GSZ is sub-divided into six business units. One of these is the back office unit that
provides support services for the entire company. The other five business units are service providers for the new public
management structure products.
GSZ is organised around a decentralised organisational structure and is therefore closer to customers and correspondingly
flexible. The approximately 40 specialist departments and profit and service centres within the business units have clear
targets, guidelines and agreed budgets against which they are measured.
What services do they provide? The range of services includes 27 products and 5 support products, for which
annual product-service agreements are created. They are based on the overriding objectives, strategies and guidelines
from the concepts. The support products provide the corporate infrastructure and thus support the primary process.
For whom are services provided? The purchasers of the services, that is our clients, are diverse and their needs are equally varied. There are many other customer groups apart from the population itself. The challenging task
for GSZ is to satisfy them all at the right time with the right quality of services that they require in a cost-effective way.
140 The Green Book of Zurich
Corporate Values
Expert,professional,motivatedemployees GSZ employees are responsible for their own work. Expertise is
delegated as far as is possible. Target and employee discussions are the key management tool for agreeing and reflecting
on the performance delivered. Professional expertise and interpersonal skills are excellent and further training is provided.
Around 60% of employees are in daily contact with customers and are therefore image carriers for GSZ and the municipality.
The company invests in the further training of all employees and is open to contemporary techniques and tools.
SocialresponsibilityGSZ provides employment for 80–100 people from various municipal social programmes.
Closetocustomers The decentralised organisational structure and the associated delegation of responsibility ensure
proximity to clients and guarantee a high level of benefits to customers. Financial control and the targets set support the
product managers and line managers.
Health and safety The partly dangerous technical work processes demand high safety standards. GSZ is actively
committed to the promotion of health and safety at work.
Communicationandinformation Within GSZ, information and communication is of the utmost importance both
internally and externally. The communication of current information increases understanding for different environmental
concerns and demands dialogue. Communication takes place openly with mutual appreciation.
Quality and innovation GSZ considers as a teaching organisation that is actively involved in the continuous
development process. GSZ approaches changes in a forward-looking manner and with innovative solutions in which the
employees are also involved.
Environmentalresponsibility GSZ campaigns with pressure for the conservation of the environment. All corporate
decisions are examined for their environmental friendliness and effect in terms of sustainability.
Efficiency GSZ employees think and act in an enterprising way. Cost-benefit thinking is a key management task. Regular
benchmarking at different levels is an indicator of performance and provides the basis for improvements.
The Company
141The Green Book of Zurich
Resources
Employees today Just under 450 employees work for GSZ, of whom approximately 20% are women. Almost 30%
of employees work part-time, with over 50% of women working part-time. This corresponds to an average headcount of
390 full-time equivalents.
Between 25 and 30 people complete several months of internship at GSZ and there are also training positions for over 30
apprentices, the majority in manual jobs
Employeesinthefuture In principle GSZ wants to achieve the targets specified in the Green Book with its current
working capacity. GSZ will increase the effectiveness of the organisation by concentrating on the goals and strategies
formulated in the Green Book. Additional positions will be justified, if
> the percentage of intensively used green land in the city markedly increases;
> new, significant additional services are to be provided;
> the cost of additional positions is financed by third parties.
The number of apprenticeship positions is between 8 and 10% of the number of employees and GSZ also offers a similar
number of internships. This guarantees a serious level of training without having too great an impact on productivity.
FinancestodayThe current annual expenditure, excluding investments, is approximately 101 million francs. It generates
revenue from third parties totalling 19 million francs and charges 14 million francs for inner-city services to other municipal entities.
This results in an annual balance of cost of approx. 68 million Swiss francs or 53 cents per day and inhabitant. Depreciation and
interest on equipment amount to approximately 25 million francs. Between 20 and 25 million francs are invested annually in
green spaces, mainly in parks and sports grounds, around 70–80% of which is for the refurbishment of existing facilities and
20–30% is invested in new ones. The purchase of external services for maintenance and investment is approx. 43 million francs
annually, the same figure as the total salary costs.
Finances in the future With the improved efficiency sought for as a result of concentrating on the aims of the
Green Book, the need for finance will not realistically change significantly.
GSZ revenue from external services will fall slightly due to the decline in the price of natural products and as a result of
the falling number of row graves.
The chargeable figure for services to other municipal departments will increase annually by 1 to 1,5 million francs due to
massive investment and expansion of land for sports facilities and schoolyards. These are largely financing costs that the
affected departments can be debitted for.
Investments will continue to be between 20 and 25 million francs per year and will result in rising financing costs.
Spatial expansion and more intensive maintenance of green areas as a reaction to increased usage will also cause costs
to rise. There will also be additional personnel costs that cannot be compensated depending of the expansion of Green
Knowledge.
If the key objectives and fields of action aspired to in the Green Book are to be implemented, then a moderate real increase
in material and personnel costs of around 1% per year should be anticipated in the medium term. The costs of depreciation,
amortisation and interest will initially rise sharply but then flatten off in line with investments.
The Company
Appendix
144 The Green Book of Zurich
Directory of Keywords
Appendix
In addition to the Table of Contents, the Directory of Keywords will simplify the selective search for information about GSZ targets and fields of action within the following chapters:
> Green and Open Spaces> Basic principles> Environmental Education> The Company
AAnimalsBiodiversity 79Forestry 65Agriculture 71Use of open space 97
CCleanlinessUse of open space 97Parks, squares and common land 37Forestry 65Communication methods 120
Competing claims among interest groupsUse of open space 97Parks, squares and common land 37Participation and partnerships 109Forestry 65Agriculture 71
DDensificationUrban landscape 85Residential and working environment 130Provision of open space 91Design of open space and horticultural heritage 103
DogsUse of open space 97Parks, squares and common land 37Green in the streets 54
EEfficiencyCorporate values 140
EnergyEnvironment 85Forestry 65Agriculture 71
ExhibitionsCommunication methods 120
FFinanceResources 141
Footpaths and cycle routesUse of open space 97Provision of open space 91Green in the streets 54
Fruit treesBiodiversity 79Agriculture 71Allotments and recreational gardens 48Urban landscape 31
HHealthGreen Knowledge 117Agriculture 71Use of open space 97Environment 85Corporate values 140
Horticultural heritageDesign of open space and Horticultural heritage 103Communication methods 120Cemeteries 46Sports grounds and swimming facilities 50
IIntegral planningProcess management 136Participation and partnerships 109
LLakesideParks, squares and common land 37Urban landscape 31
LitterUse of open space 97Parks, squares and common land 37Forestry 65Green in the streets 54
Landscape Development Concepts and Forest Development PlanUrban landscape 31Forestry 65Agriculture 71Participation and partnerships 109
OOutcome-orientated actionsProcess management 136Participation and partnerships 109
PPublic-Private-PartnershipParticipation and partnerships 109Residential and working environment 59
RRiverbanksParks, squares and common land 37Watercourses 57 Urband landscape 31
ResearchParticipation and partnerships 109The Succulent Plant Collection 124 Nature Experience Park 128
SSafetyUse of open space 97Parks, squares and common land 37Corporate values 140
SihlwaldNature Experience Park 128Forestry 65Urban landscape 31Participation and partnerships 109
Social responsibility Corporate values 140Allotments and recreational gardens 48Use of open space 97Participation and partnerships 109Parks, squares and common land 37
SoilEnvironment 85Production and maintenance in harmony with nature 130
UUrban climateEnvironment 85Forestry 65Green in the streets 54
VVandalismUse of open space 97Forestry 65
145The Green Book of Zurich
Glossary and L inks
AAfS Amt für Städtebau Office for Urban Development.
Agricultural zone A no-building zone thatis primarily used for soil-dependent agricultural or horticultural production. The term “multifunctionality” is used to describe agricultural zones that secure the country’s nutritional base in the long term and are also used for other public interests, such as for recreation or to protect natural ecosystems. Buildings and facilities that are used for agricultural or productive horticulture are permitted under certain conditions [Art.22 and Art. 16a of the Spatial Planning Act (Raumplanungsgesetz RPG)]. These include, for instance, economic buildings, stables, greenhouses, storage space, preparation and sale of agricultural or horticultural products and living space. Exemptions can be granted on the basis of Art. 24 of the Spatial Planning Act for site-related buildings and facilities (high-voltage masts, water reservoirs, shooting facilities). Agricultural zones in the city of Zurich have been designated as buffer zones, with very few exceptions. [Art. 16 ff. Spatial Planning Act RPG; § 36 Planning and Building Act PBG]> Buffer zone> Buffer area
Animal messengers Grün Stadt Zürich employees who communicate additional information to visitors to the Langenberg Wildlife Park on Wednesday afternoons and on Sundays.
AWEL Amt für Abfall, Wasser, Energie und Luft, Office for Waste, Water, Energy and Air within the canton of Zurich.
BBAB Bauen ausserhalb von Bauzonen Building outside of building zones.[Art. 24–24 d and Art. 37a RPG (SR. 700)]
BAFU Bundesamt für Umwelt, Federal Office for the Environment. Formerly BUWAL. Part of the Swiss Federal Department for the Environment, Transport, Energy and Communication (UVEK).> BUWAL> UVEK
Balance of effects (Wirkungsbilanz WiBi) Tool for measuring the importance and satisfaction of different stakeholders with Grün Stadt Zürich products and services.
Benchmarking Economic methods for comparing similar business units with each other. Benchmarking is therefore an indicator for Grün Stadt Zürich, against which its own position can be measured, with the claim to learn from the best.
BFS Bundesamt für Statistik, Swiss Federal Office for Statistics
Biodiversity Diversity of life. From the Greek «bios» meaning «life» and Latin «diversitas» meaning «diversity». Measure for the number of different life forms within a habitat and thus for the diversity of flora and fauna. Here “different life forms” does not simply mean the number of species, but also their genetic diversity within the species, the diversity of ecosystems and the diversity of interrelationships between the life forms.
BIP Bruttoinlandprodukt Gross domestic product (GDP)
BLN Bundesinvenatr der Landschaften und Naturdenkmäler von nationaler Bedeutung Federal Inventory of Landscapes and Natural Monuments of National Importance.
BSE Bovine spongiform encephalopathyMad cow disease ().
BTS Besonders tierfreundliche Stallhaltungs-systeme Especially animal housing-friendly housing systems. An animal welfare labelling programme initiated by the Federal Office for Agriculture. Direct payment subsidy for livestock housed in particularly anima-friendly stalls and facilities. [SR. 910.132.4 (BTS Ordinance dated 7 December 1998)] [SR. 910.132.4 (BTS Ordinance dated 7 December 1998)]> RAUS
Buffer zone The City Council of Zurich does not systematically differentiate in its Building and Zoning Ordinance (BZO) between buffer zones (Freihaltezone) in the sense of §§ 39 ff. of the Planning and Building Act (Planungs- und Baugesetz PBG) and agricultural zones (Landwirtschaftszonen) in the sense of Art. 16 of the Spatial Planning Act (Raumplanungsgesetz RPG). Agricultural zones are no-building zones, whereas buffer zones include the full range of conservation zones in compliance with Art. 17 of the RPG to special building zones, for instance with recreational land uses. The boundary to the recreation zone is partially unclear. A significant proportion of the buffer zones designated in the BZO are counted as agricultural zones in a federal legal sense, that is outside of the residential area specified in the structure plan. Here building and facilities are only permitted in line with Art. 16a or Art. 24 of the RPG. The decision lies with the cantonal authorities (art. 25 RPG). Municipal authorities only have responsibility for the inner buffer zones, that is to say buffer zones surrounded by building zones.> Buffer area> Recreational zone
BUWAL Formerly: Bundesamt für Umwelt, Wald und Landschaft, Federal Office for the Environment, Forestry and Agriculture. Now: BAFU.> BAFU
BZO Bau- und Zonenordnung Building and Zoning Ordinance. [AS 700.100]> Structure plan
CConservation order Regulation for the protection of objects, particularly in the case of protection measures that relate to a larger area. The conservation order is a component of the Planning and Building Act (Planungs- und Baugesetz PBG) that also regulated nature and heritage conservation among other things.[§ 205 lit. b Planning and Building Act (Planungs- und Baugesetz PBG]> Buffer area
Cooperation Voluntary consensus-based form of cooperation by equal partners. Both parties hope to achieve a better common solution through cooperation. Cooperative processes are a specific form of voluntary participation processes. > Participation
Crop rotation land (Fruchtfolgeflächen)Calculated minimal agricultural production land to guarantee the country’s provision in times of disrupted supply.[Art. 16 of the Spatial Planning Act RPG, especially Sect. 3; Cantonal Structure Plan Chapter 3: Landscape]. > Buffer zone
Customers/customer group Recipient(s) of theproducts and/or services. A group of people defined by selected criteria that has a formulatable claim to the quality ad reliability of the products and services provided by GSZ. > Stakeholders
DDA Dienstabteilung Municipal department (lit. Service department)
Degree of expansion This indicates to what extent the use of an area in the building zone is exhausted. The municipal building regulation stipulates the permitted use.
Degree of soil sealing Percentage of paved and water-impermeable land within a specific plot of land, area or larger area.> Soil sealing
Degree of target achievement Ratio between the prescribed target and the actual service provided and effect effectively achieved.
Designated open space Open space with specific priority use, for instance schoolyards and cemeteries. Designated open spaces can also be used by the public to a limited extent.> Priority use> Open space> Semi-public open space> Monofunctional open space> Multifunctional open space> Public open space> Private open space> District-related open space
Appendix
146 The Green Book of Zurich
Development area District or area in which an alteration of land use is taking place or will take place. Generally these are former industrial areas that are to be converted into service and residential areas by residential densification or conversion.
District-related open space Multifunctional usable open space for the district, e.g. parks and squares.> Open space> Semi-public open space> Monofunctional open space> Multifunctional open space> Public open space> Private open space> Designated open space
EEAWAG Eidgenössische Anstalt für Wasserver-sorgung, Abwasserreinigung und Gewässer-schutz, Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology.
Ecological networking Interconnected habitats that permit the dispersal of individuals and thus the genetic exchange of wild species. This must not necessarily be guaranteed by direct proximity but can also refer to landscape structures and other measures.
Ecological compensation Compensation for the intensive use of land (densification, alteration of land use) inside and outside of residential areas by interconnecting biotopes, promoting the diversity of species, stimulating the urban landscape and other measures.[Nature and Cultural Heritage Protection Act (Natur- und Heimatschutzgesetz NHG) (SR 451), cf. Art. 18 ff., especially Art. 18th Sect. 2]
Ecological compensation area Habitat or landscape with vegetation in harmony with nature and site-appropriate. Serves to balance out more intensive uses of land.
EDK Schweizerische Konferenz der kantonalen Erziehungsdirektoren Swiss Conference of Cantonal Directors of Education.
EFQM European Foundation for Quality Management. Model for comprehensive quality management in companies.Grün Stadt Zürich regularly examines its performance in all areas using the EFQM model. This enables comparison to be made across the different sectors. The best in Switzerland are awarded by the Prix Esprix, the best in Europe by the European Quality Award (EQA).
ERZ Entsorgung+Recycling Zürich Zurich Disposal and Recycling Services.
ETH Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule Zürich Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich.
FFAT Eidgenössische Forschungsanstalt für Agrarwirtschaft und LandtechnikSwiss Federal Research Institute for Agricultural Economics and Land Engineering in Ettenhausen. Today: Agroscope Tänikon.
FFF Fruchtfolgeflächen > Crop rotation land.
Freihaltezone > Buffer zone FSC Forest Stewardship CouncilGlobally issues the FSC certificate for defined criteria for environmentally-friendly and socially-compatible forest management and/or timber management. Examination of certified forestry and timber processing businesses by independent certification forms. Criteria for Switzerland: Separation of 10% of the forest area as forest conservation land, a minimum of 5% as a total reservation, no clear-cuts over 1 ha, regeneration with site-specific species of trees over a minimum 80% of the land. Zurich’s urban forest has been FSC-certified since 1999. Grün Stadt Zürich has a leading role in FSC group certification across the entire urban area.
GG59 First national Swiss horticultural show held in Zurich in 1959.
GDP Gartendenkmalpflege Departement for the preservation of heritage gardens[Resolution by the City Council about departmental division and work dated 26 March 1997 (AS 172.110), Art. 44 litb]
Geomorphology Teaching about the structure of the Earth and the processes that have shaped the surface of the Earth.
gfs.bern Berne Institute for Research Projects in the fields of Politics, Communications and Society.
GIS Geographical information system. An information system that is used to capture and edit, store and reorganise, model and analyse as well as alphanumerically and graphically present data that is linked to locations.
Global budget Instrument for defining and examining performance targets for product groups and products. In the forefront is the outcome sought and not the expenditure-related control. The global budget provides the management with the freedom to determine itself the methods to fulfil the performance mandate taking into account the overriding guidelines.
GR Gemeinderat City Parliament. Legislative body of the city of Zurich.
Green belt Coherent linear green element in the city.
Green space An area of open space that is largely unsealed characterised by planting and natural cover.
GrünForum (Green Forum) Public information event on current environmental issues held annual each spring jointly by Grün Stadt Zürich and the Association for Zurich Living Space (VLZ).
Grünumgang (Green Tour) Information tour through municipal green spaces for members of the City Parliament and invited representatives of key stakeholders by Grün Stadt Zürich. Held annually in the autumn together with the Verbund Lebensraum Zürich VLZ (Association of Zurich Living Space).
GSZ Grün Stadt Zürich Office of Parks and Open Spaces.
HHerbarium Scientific collection of dried plants and plant parts.
Heritage garden A location (garden, open space), created with structural elements and planting, in which there is public interest for historical or artistic reasons. Can also be designated a contemporary witness or historical garden.
Horticultural heritage Horticultural heritage describes the artistic and landscape architectural design of all created green spaces and open spaces in the city (historical and modern parks, cemeteries, schoolyards, sports grounds or public swimming facilities). Horticultural heritage is also always an expression of the zeitgeist and or a present and past understanding of nature.
IIMMO Immobilien-Bewirtschaftung Property Management, a municipal department.
Indicator Characteristic that indicates the state or development of costs, services or effects. Generally indicators exist from the relationship between two indices (e.g. cost per unit of number per unit of time). Generally entire groups of indicators have to be evaluated in order to obtain a picture of a development. At least one measurable indicator is needed per target to ensure that the attainment of the target can be controlled. Indicators are an integral part of the product and service agreements of Grün Stadt Zürich and the Green Book. An indicator can be viewed with the aid of several key figures.> Key figures
Integral planning Complete examination per se of all planning aspects aiming for an overall view. Joint search for complementary best possible ways within a network of dependencies. In doing so, Grün Stadt Zürich distances itself from the existing sector-based approach and promotes coordinated, customer-orientated thinking and action.
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147The Green Book of Zurich
Inventory of Objects Worth Protecting List and description of objects worth protecting and conserving (Planning and Building Act PBG and Nature Conservation and Cultural Heritage Protection Act NHG) by the authority responsible for the protection measures (federation, canton, municipality). The inventories are available for viewing in the municipal authority offices or in the cantonal building management offices if these are inter-municipal objects. Entry on the inventory itself does not accord a property protection, but simply defines the special protective character of a particular object (e.g. landscape, garden and park, geomorphologic object, monument, contemporary witness, natural conservation. It is the responsibility of the responsible community to put in place the requisite protection or conservation measures (protection) or to ensure protection by means of contractual regulations or easements.[§ 203 Planning and Building Act (LS 700.1)]
ISO 14001 Globally applicable regulations by the International Standards Organisation for the introduction and operation of an Environmental Management System. The ISO 14001 certificate can be applied for if there has been an external audit by a certification company. Grün Stadt Zürich has been certified to comply with ISO 14001 since 2003.
KKbS Kataster der belasteten Standorte Land Register of Contaminated Sites in the canton of Zurich. The Ordinance on the Refurbishment of Contaminated Sites (Contamination Ordinance) obliges the cantons to produce and maintain a land register of contaminated sites. The Contamination section within the Office for Waste, Water, Energy and Air (AWEL) produces the land register on behalf of the Building Management department. It bases this on the existing Land Register of Suspected Contaminated Sites. This land register includes site where there has been a suspicion of contamination since the early 1990s.> AWEL
Key figures Key figures represent figures that reflect quantitatively measureable data and present relevant facts and inter-relationships in a simple and compact form.Grün Stadt Zürich uses defined key figures to report on its targets, products and services. These are used for the quantitative measurement and presentation of indicators and are part of the Grün Stadt Zürich performance measurement process. > Indicator
Key species Animals and plants that make high demands on their habitat and are typical for the habitant. The quantity and quality of conservation and regeneration measures for the habitats can be identified and evaluated by means of these biotope specialists. > Target species
Knospe/Bio-Suisse label Bio-Suisse organic farming collective brand for controlled organic agriculture. Foodstuff or a high health value is produced with maximum protection of the environment. The entire farm must be organically managed.
KSO land Objects in the Inventory of Municipal Nature and Landscape Conservation Objects of the City of Zurich. The inventory was set up on 24 January 1990.[City Council Resolution no. 288 dated 24 January 1990]
Kyoto Protocol A document signed by 159 countries that obliges them to reduce greenhouse gases. It essentially includes the requirements that countries reduced their emissions of six greenhouse gases by a minimum of 5% below their 1990 emission levels. Each country has its own limits; the reduction required by Switzerland (and the EU) is 8%. The Protocol has been in force since 15 February 2005.
LLabel Designation/proof of voluntary compliance with specific guaranteed quality features of a product or production method. Compliance is regularly examined by an independent body. Examples of Grün Stadt Zürich labels: Engagement (M7 meat), FSC Knospe, Naturaplan, ZüriChornBrot.
LEK LandschaftsentwicklungskonzeptLandscape Development Concept.
Light-demanding species of tree Species of tree that requires a great deal of light, such as oak, pine, birch and larch.
Linear open space Open space axes, such as riverbanks or green belts that are also used by slow-moving traffic.
Littering The throwing away of litter and waste. This term is used to describe the pollution of public spaces (and means of transport) by discarded or heedlessly thrown away litter.
LN Landwirtschaftliche Nutzfläche Utilised agricultural area (UAA).
LVZ Liegenschaftenverwaltung der Stadt ZürichReal Estate Management Office.
MManagement and maintenance in harmony with nature Any type of management and maintenance that is based on legal guidelines, for instance the Organic Ordinance, Eco Quality Ordinance, the Administrative Ordinance relating to the Maintenance and Management of Green and Open Spaces in Harmony with Nature (VVO), or that comply with label programme guidelines, such as Knospe (Bio-Suisse) or IP. > VVO
Mobility strategy Procedural description relating to the handling of traffic within the city of Zurich. The Mobility Strategy was established by the Zurich City Council on 9 May 2001.> Strategy
MONET Monitoring of sustainable development in Switzerland. A joint products from the Federal Office for Statistics (BFS), the Federal Office for the Environment (BAFU) and the Federal Office for Urban Development (ARE). The MONET indicator system measures and documents the current situation and development in Switzerland in relation to social, economic and ecological aspects of sustainable development.
Monofunctional open space Open space with a definite designated land use, unlike multifunctional open space not used for widespread recreation.> Open space> Semi-public open space> Multifunctional open space> Public open space> Private open space> District-related open space> Designated open space
Multifunctional open space Open space that can be used by different user groups in a variety of ways at the same time, unlike monofunctional open space.> Open space> Semi-public open space> Multifunctional open space> Public open space> Private open space> District-related open space> Designated open space
NNatural value index A monitoring tool developed by Grün Stadt Zürich that presents the overall view of the city of Zurich in relation to its biological environments and habitats.
Nature Experience Park (NEP) An area with a high natural, cultural and landscape-based value in which the culture, social structure and native economy are in harmony with the efforts by the population for a lasting development project.
Neobiota (used for neozoon) An umbrella term for the entirety of all invasive species, independently of their taxonomic rank, naturalisation status or time of introduction, without defining these by a negation (non-native) or by an evaluative approach. Examples in Switzerland include racoon, red crayfish. > Neophytes
Neophytes From the Greek “neo” meaning “new” and “phyton” meaning “plant”. Species of plant foreign to an area that have been consciously or unconsciously introduced into Switzerland after the year 1500 by the action of humans and are now occurring in the wild and reproducing. Examples include goldenrod and ambrosia.> Neobiota
Glossary und Links Appendix
148 The Green Book of Zurich
NFK Natur- und Freiraumkommission Committee for Nature and Open Spaces. City Council advisory committee on “green” issues.
NHG Natur- und Heimatschutzgesetz Nature and Heritage Conservation Act. [SR. 451]
No-building area In contrast to buffer zones defined in a structure plan, a buffer area can serve different purposes and thus include the most diverse zones, for instance agriculture and recreational zones, where this is defined within the framework of a Conservation Order and providing this land use does not contradict the purpose of maintaining a buffer of land.> Buffer zone> Conservation order
NPM New public management. Zurich City Council passed a resolution to reform its administration on 27 August 1997. The aim is to achieve more efficient management by stronger customer orientation and the introduction of business efficiency criteria, such as defining customers, products and services, describing targets and the purpose of services and defining key figures. Grün Stadt Zürich is a new public management pilot service department.
OÖBU Schweizerische Vereinigung für ökolo-gisch bewusste Unternehmensführung Swiss Sustainable Business Network.
Office for Agriculture Specialist department working on behalf of the Head of the Department for the Economy (Department of Agriculture) and responsible for the management of stocks of animals, wildflower strips, cutting times on extensively and less intensively farmed fields and enquiries into the direction of general direct payment and much more. There is an Office for Agriculture within Grün Stadt Zürich. [Cantonal Ordinance on the Federal Legislature about Management Subsidies to Agriculture (LS 910.20]
Open landscape Meadows and fields outside of the residential area.
Open space Land and associated air space free from high buildings and not primarily used for traffic.> Semi-public open space> Monofunctional open space> Multifunctional open space> Public open space> Private open space> District-related open space> Designated open space Open space capacity Number of people who can use an open space at the same time without this impairing the recreational quality or the environment.
Open space infrastructure The characterising large-scale landscape forms of the city of Zurich. in the North East the Hönggerberg-Käferberg-Zürichberg-Adlisberg ridge, in the South West the Uetliberg, to the south of Lake Zurich. The rivers Limmat and Sihl are striking linear elements in the urban landscape.
Organic farming Farming method that fully meets the requirements for organic production specified in the Swiss Organic Farming Ordinance. The fundamental principle is that the entire organic farm must be organically managed and cultivated.In order to maintain and promote the natural diversity of species, the Confederation assists ecological compensation land of particular organic quality on utilised agricultural areas and the linking of ecological compensation areas with financial aid (Eco-Quality contributions). [Swiss Organic Farming Ordinance (SR 910.18); Ordinance on Eco-Quality (ÖQV) (SR 910.14)]
ÖLN Ökologischer Leistungsnachweis Ecological Proof of Performance. Federal programme for agricultural products based on the Integrated Production (IP) guidelines. This demands a regulated fertilizer balance, a minimum of 7% ecological compensation areas, regulated crop rotation and the controlled use of plant treatment agents. Compliance with ÖLN criteria is the prerequisite for direct payments in accordance with the Federation’s Direct Payment Ordinance. [Direct Payment Ordinance (SR. 910.13) inc. Appendix]
ÖQV Öko-Qualitätsverordnung Eco Quality Ordinance. Ordinance dated 4 April 2001 on the regional promotion of quality and the networking of ecological compensation areas in agriculture.[SR. 910.14]
PPark Generally accessible, multifunctional green space
Participation Involvement, active participation of people, companies or interest groups, affected by sovereign decisions. A differentiation is made between formal, legally prescribed processes, that can also include legally claimable co-determination rights and voluntary participation processes (consciously selected processes for the active involvement of affected people in the sense of an additional offer).> Cooperation
PBG Planungs- und Baugesetz des Kantons Zürich vom 7. September 1975 (LS 700) Planning and Building Act of the canton of Zurich.
PD Polizeidepartement Police Department.
Percentage of land built upon Percentage of land within the building zone that has already been built upon.
Plan Lumière Lighting concept for the city of Zurich. The City Council approved the overall concept on 5 May 2004.
Planning profit Increase in value of land by appreciation due to planning.> Value added levy
PPP projects Public-Private Partnership projects. Projects involving a partnership between a public and a private institution.
Primary process Portrayal of the chronological sequence of individual actions in order to describe the provision of products and performance. The two primary processes of Grün Stadt Zürich are: the provision of products and services and project management.> Support process
Priority land use Primary type of land use on a specific plot of land. An example of this is in forest areas where the priority use is recreation, timber production or ecological integrity carries less weight. > Designated open space
Private open space Privately-owned open space. Open space that it not accessible to the public but can only be used by individual parties (unlike public and semi-public open spaces). > Open space> Semi-public open space> Monofunctional open space> Multifunctional open space> Public open space> District-related open space> Designated open space
Process protection Nature conservation term. The natural development processes of an ecosystem or a landscape are ensured by non-intervention. Typical examples are large-scale national parks. Process protection guarantees that natural disturbances that are significant for natural dynamics can develop. In contrast, disturbances caused by man should be eliminated as much as is possible.
Product Single offer by Grün Stadt Zürich in compliance with outcome-orientated management. Every product from Grün Stadt Zürich meets specifically defined needs of a definite customer group within the framework of legal and political guidelines. The individual products are at one and the same time cost units, that is to say that expenditure and revenue are assigned to each individual product. Grün Stadt Zürich has over 28 outcome-orientated managed products.> WOV
Product group Combination of those products that form a strategic unit with a clear direction within a specific task area. Grün Stadt Zürich has five outcome-orientated managed product groups.
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149The Green Book of Zurich
Profit centre Economic set-up of GSZ specialist areas and operations that provide marketable services (responsibility for success). They have access to the external customer and provider market. The aim of the profit centre is to maximise the contribution margin via internally/externally calculated, user-based market/transfer prices.> Service centre
Project Target-orientated, temporary scheme with clearly defined scope in terms of time, cost and resources and defined responsibilities. Projects consist of a project plan, project report and financial control.
Provision of open space Provision of the residential population or working population with generally accessible open space that can be reached on foot that is suitable for recreation owing to its multifunctional use.
Public open space Freely accessible open space, generally publicly-owned.> Open space> Semi-public open space> Monofunctional open space> Multifunctional open space> Private open space> District-related open space> Designated open space
Pusch Stiftung Praktischer Umweltschutz Schweiz Swiss Practical Environmental Conservation Foundation
QQuality Economic fulfilment of sustainable services in compliance with expectations
RRanger Originally watchman/warden of the royal parks in England, today primarily park wardens, e.g. in national parks. Within Grün Stadt Zürich, rangers are people with a communications and supervisory function in nature conservation areas.
RAUS Regelmässiger Auslauf Regular run-around outside. An animal welfare labelling programme initiated by the Federal Office for Agriculture. Direct payment subsidy for livestock housed in particularly animal-friendly stalls and facilities that are regularly permitted to run around outdoors. [Raus Ordinance; SR 910.132.5]> BTS
Residential area All buildings, railway lines and other fixed areas, as well as the associated gardens and recreational grounds (areas surrounding housing, parks, sports grounds, cemeteries). This excludes agriculturally utilised land (arable land, meadows, pasture, vineyards, intensive cultivation), standing and flowing water and forests; they all belong to the non-residential area.
[Planning and Building Act (Planungs- und Baugesetz PBG) under “Kantonaler Richtplan” Cantonal Structure Plan, §§ 20 ff.]
Residential zone Sum of residential area and non-residential area. In the city of Zurich, the residential zone corresponds to the entire municipal area.
Retention From the Latin «retentio» meaning «retain». Measures to prevent flooding and to relieve the sewer network by retaining rainwater for drainage or, should this not be possible, for metered discharge into streams or into the sewer system. Lakes can be used for retention, as well as grassed flat roofs or soakaways.
RPG Bundesgesetz über die Raumplanung vom 22. Juni 1979 Federal Spatial Planning Act dated 22 June 1979. (Raumplanungsgesetz, SR 700)
RPV Raumplanungsverordnung vom 28. Juni 2000 Spatial Planning Ordinance (SR 700.1)
Running to seed Allowing land to be overgrown with bushes and later becoming a forest following cessation of management.
RZU Regionalplanung Zürich und UmgebungRegional Planning for Zurich and surrounding area-
SSD Sozialdepartment Social department of Zurich City Council.
Semi-public open space Green space and open space in office or residential buildings that are not intended for public use but which are used in a neighbourly way by the employees of the office building or from the residents of the housing estate.> Open space> Monofunctional open space> Multifunctional open space> Public open space> Private open space> District-related open space> Designated open space
Service Result of the work of Grün Stadt Zürich. A differentiation is made between planned and effectively provided services, measured by their quantity and quality.
Service centre Business organisational body of Grün Stadt Zürich specialist fields and businesses. The aim of the service centre is cost-covering provision of services via internal, marketable, fair according to the input involved and cost-orientated transfer prices based on cost of sales. Grün Stadt Zürich services centres do not generally have access to the external market. > Profit centre
Soil sealing Covering of the surface of the soil with virtually air- and water-impermeable materials. Soil is mainly sealed by the building
of roads, footpaths, buildings and underground constructions. This destroys the natural function of the soil and the drainage of rain water is prevented.> Degree of sealing
SPA Sportamt Sport Office.
Stakeholder Stakeholders are an integral part of a project. They are the end-users or clients, the people from whom requirements will be drawn, the people who will influence the design and, ultimately, the people who will reap the benefits of the completed project. GSZ stakeholders are, for example, the inhabitants of the city of Zurich, members of the Association for Zurich Living Space (VLZ), political parties, the City Council or other municipal departments.> Customer group> Target group
STEZ Stadtentwicklung Zürich Office for Urban Development. Strategy Description of the process to achieve the corporate goals derived from the corporate vision – based on the status today. The corporate strategy of Grün Stadt Zürich consists of the sub-strategies on green spaces and open spaces, Green Knowledge and strategic statements about corporate development.
Strategic partnership Cooperation with an important partner to achieve the corporate goals of Grün Stadt Zürich.
Structure plan (Richtplan) Document that outlines the coordination of regionally specific activities in relation to the development required and contains statements about the time-based consequences and the means for fulfilling the task. Structure plans are merely binding for the authorities and are examined periodically [Art. 8 f. Spatial Planning Act (Raumplanungsgesetz RPG)]. Based on the Cantonal Structure Plan (defined by the Cantonal Parliament), the municipal council [Art. 41 lit. K Municipal Ordinance (Gemeindeordnung)] defines the Regional Structure Plan for the City of Zurich at the request of Zurich City Council Planning Group, if need be with further differentiations. The Regional Structure Plan for the city of Zurich forms the basis for the Building and Zoning Ordinance and comprises sub-structure plans. > Residential areas and countryside> Traffic > Public buildings and grounds> Building and Zoning Ordinance BZO
Succulent plants Water-storing plants that have adapted to specific climate and soil conditions. Typical succulents are all species of the large family of cacti.
Superior open space Multifunctional usable open space, the catchment area for which goes beyond the city boundaries. Examples within the city of Zurich include the lakeside park facilities.. > Multifunctional open space
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150 The Green Book of Zurich
Glossary und Links Appendix
Support process Process of support and assistance. A process, which indirectly serves to provide a product and service. Examples if support processes include software procurement or personnel administration.> Primary process
Surplus value levy Art. 5 of the Spatial Planning Act (Raumplanungsgesetz RPG) orders the cantons to provide surplus value levy in return for the constitutionally guaranteed duty of compensation for reduced value by planning (resulting from under-zoning or zoning-out). This relates to increased value through planning, resulting from changes to zoning plans, and does not have anything in common with property gains tax. The cantons of BE, BL and BS have implemented Art. 5 of the Spatial Planning Act in their cantonal law. The cities of Basle and Berne are successfully applying surplus value levies.
Sustainability Inclusion of the three dimensions – economy, ecology and social. The city of Zurich is signed up to the principle of “sustainable development”. A development is deemed to be sustainable if it ensures economic performance, the well-being of the population and reinforces social justice and contributes to ensuring natural habitats and living space for humans, animals and plants (Zurich City Council working definition). Grün Stadt Zürich is therefore working towards simultaneous and equal environmentally-friendly, social and economic targets. All of the work undertaken by Grün Stadt Zürich and its employees is directed towards the limits of the load capacity of the ecosystem taking into account the economic and social dimensions.[Art. 2, 73 Swiss Federal Constitution (Bundes- verfassung BV; SR 101)]
TTarget group A group of people with the same or very similar demands to which an offer or a measure is directed. The products and services offered by Grün Stadt Zürich are aimed at specific target groups.> Stakeholders> Customer group
Target species Endangered species of animal and plant in the red list which is of particular significance for a specific area. They are relevant for the protection of species. Their conservation is mandatory in compliance with the Nature and Heritage Conservation Act (Natur- und Heimatschutzgesetz NHG) Art. 18.> Specialist experts
TAZ Tiefbauamt der Stadt Zürich Civil Engineering Office.
TED Tiefbau- und Entsorgungsdepartement Civil Engineering and Waste Management Department.
Tree bed Planting recess in the pavement in which a tree stands.
UUGZ Umwelt- und Gesundheitsschutz ZürichEnvironmental and Health Protection Service.
UMS Umweltmanagementsystem Environmental Management System: Sub-section of the Grün Stadt Zürich management system with the aim of constantly improving handling of the environment. Compliance with environmental guidelines is an integral element of the job description of each Grün Stadt Zürich employee. The Grün Stadt Zürich Environmental Management System has been certified to comply with ISO 14001 since 2003.> ISO 14001
UVEK Eidgenössisches Departement für Um-welt, Verkehr, Energie und Kommunikation Swiss Federal Department for the Environment, Transport, Energy and Communication.> BAFU
VVision Prospect of a medium- to long-term expectation of status. Within the context of a company, the vision if a desirable state that is strived for by the work and activities of the company.
VLZ Verbund Lebensraum Zürich Association for Zurich Living Space. Umbrella organisation for all associations concerned with “green” issues in the city of Zurich.
VTE Vorsteher des Tiefbau- und Entsorgungs-departements Head of the Civil Engineering and Waste Disposal Department of Zurich City Council.
VVO Verwaltungsverordnung über die naturnahe Pflege und Bewirtschaftung städtischer Grün- und Freiflächen Administrative Regulation for the Maintenance and Management of Municipal Green and Open Spaces in Harmony with Nature. Passed by the City Council in 1995.> Management and maintenance in harmony with nature
WWEP Waldentwicklungsplan Forest Development Plan. [Cantonal Forest Ordinance (LS 921.11): §§ 4 ff.]
WiBi Wirkungsbilanz > Balance of effects
Wildlife corridor Connecting element between habitats which allows wild animals to overcome obstacles, such as lines of communication or residential areas. The requirements of a wildlife corridor vary according to the species of animal. Examples of a wildlife corridor include green bridges, underground pipes.
Working group Temporary, often inter-disciplinary grouping of employees who are specifically working on a common task, a project or a joint contract – often including external experts. Work is often performed in working groups at Grün Stadt Zürich. The justification for their existence is examined annually.
WOV Wirkungsorientierte Verwaltungsführung> NPM New public management
WSL Eidgenössische Forschungsanstalt für Wald, Schnee und Landschaft Swiss Research Centre for Forestry, Snow and Landscape in Birmensdorf.
Links
Bio-Suisse (Knospe), Label for organic farming: www.bio-suisse.ch
Bundesamt für Landwirtschaft (BLW), Swiss Federal Office for Agriculture (BLW): www.blw.admin.ch
Bundesamt für Raumentwicklung (ARE), Swiss Federal Office for Spatial Development (ARE): www.are.admin.ch
Bundesamt für Statistik (BFS), Swiss Federal Office for Statistics (BFS): www.statistik.admin.ch
Bundesamt für Umwelt, Swiss Federal Office for the Environment (BAFU, formerly BUWAL): www.umwelt-schweiz.ch
Eidgenössische Forschungsanstalt für Agrarwirtschaft und Landtechnik , Swiss Federal Research Institute for Agricultural Economic and Land Engineering (FAT):www.fat.admin.ch
European Foundation for Quality Management: www.efqm.org
Grün Stadt Zürich, Office of Parks and Open Spaces of the city of Zurich: www.stadt-zuerich.ch/gsz
Kantonale Fachstelle für Naturschutz, Cantonal Specialist Centre for Nature Conservation: www.naturschutz.zh.ch
MONET: www.monet.admin.ch
Stadt Zürich: www.stadt-zuerich.ch
Systematische Sammlung des Bundesrechts, Systematic Collection of Swiss Federal Law:www.admin.ch/ch/d/sr/sr.html
Zürcher Gesetzessammlung, Zurich Law Collection (ZH-Lex): www.zhlex.zh.ch
151The Green Book of Zurich
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Amt für Abfall, Wasser, Energie und Luft: Massnahmenplan Wasser Kanton Zürich. Leitbild. Zürich 2006.
Amt für Landschaft und Natur: Aktionsplan Lichte Wälder im Kanton Zürich. Zürich 2005.
Anger, C.; Ball, S.; Ballnus, F.: Naturschutz und Landschaftsplanung. Urbane Räume im Wandel. In: Zeitschrift für angewandte Ökologie., 37. Jg. (2005), H. 1, S. 21–27.
Amt für Raumordnung und Vermessung: Raumbe-obachtung Kanton Zürich. Siedlungsentwicklung. Heft Nr. 24. Zürich 2004.
Bächtold, D.: Immer mehr Gentech-Bäume. In: Tages-Anzeiger vom 14.7.2005.
BAK Basel Economics: BAK-Bericht vom April 2005. Zürcher Strategien. Präsentation vor der Delegation für Wirtschaft, Stadtentwicklung und öffentlichen Raum des Stadtrates der Stadt Zü-rich. Zürich 2005.
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Baudirektion Kanton Zürich: Umweltbericht für den Kanton Zürich 2000. Zürich 2001.
Baudirektion Kanton Zürich: Neue Wege und Räume für Zürich. Projektstudie Stadttunnel- Ver-kehr Zürich West. Zürich 2005.
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Beck, D.: Sozialpsychologie kollektiver Entschei-dungen. Ein interaktionsanalytischer Zugang. 1. Auflage. Wiesbaden ( Westdeutscher Verlag GmbH ) 2001.
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Blöchliger, H.: Baustelle Föderalismus. Metropoli-tanregionen versus Kantone: Untersuchungen und
Vorschläge für eine Revitalisierung der Schweiz. Zürich (Verlag Neue Zürcher Zeitung) 2005.
Blüchel, K.: Bionik – Wie wir die geheimen Baupläne der Natur nutzen können. München (C. Bertelsmann Verlag) 2005.
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Environmental Education Editors: Ruedi Winkler, Nature Schools Project Group: Yvonne Aellen, MaintenanceThomas Bolliger, Succulent Plant CollectionDorothée Häberling, Nature SchoolsIsabelle Roth, Sihl ForestElisabeth Weingarten, Sihl Forest CentreSilvia Steeb, Maintenance of Heritage GardensFranziska Sebö, PersonnelKarin van der Schaar, Nature ConservationChristian Stauffer, Wilderness and AnimalsMartina Brennecke, Promotion of Nature The CompanyEditors:Ernst Tschannen, Director Project Group: Sandra Graf, Quality and Safety Cordula Weber, Open Space Planning
Glossary Sandra Graf, Quality and Safety Directory of Sources Ivo Bähni, Secretary to the Director
Editorial officeBrigitte Biedermann, Secretary to the Director
External collaborationMirjam Schlup Villaverde
Prof. Susanne Karn, GTLA Institute, Hochschule für Technik Rapperswil
Zurich Committee for Nature and Open Spaces
Hans-Peter Rüdisüli, Zurich
Prof. Bernd Schubert, Effretikon
DesignErnst Hiestand
+ Partner AG, Studio for Design Consultation, Visual Design,Zollikerberg
Productionprp mathys prepress &
print, Zollikerberg
Edition 1st edition 2006, 2,500 copiesReprinted unchanged in 2009, 2,000 copies
Translated into English on the occasion of the 48th IFLA World Congress held in Zurich, 27 – 29 June 2011 by Vision Translations AG, Meilen.
Reference Sources and CopyrightZurich City CouncilGrün Stadt ZürichBeatenplatz 2Postfach8023 Zurichwww.stadt-zuerich.ch/gsz
QuotationGrün Stadt Zürich: The Green Book of Zurich. Ed. by Cordula Weber et al. Zurich 2006.
Enacted by City Council resolution no. 792 on 5 July 2006
All photographs are the property of Grün Stadt Zürich and Ernst Hiestand + Partner AG, Zollikerberg, with the exception of:
Susi Lindig, Zurich Preface Approval: Copyright of Zurich City Council, Geomatics + Surveying 30 Giorgio von Arb, Zurich 36
Orthofoto 2003: Copyright of Zurich City Council, Geomatics + Surveying Public Water Board, Canton of Zurich 2005: Copyright of the Office for Spatial Planning and Surveying; excerpts from the Inventory of Green Land and the Avenue Concept 2006: Copyright of Grün Stadt Zürich 42
Provision of Open Space in the City of Zurich (resident population) 2005 and Open Space Relevant for Recreation 2005: Copyright of Grün Stadt Zürich; excerpts from Soil Cover 2005: Copyright of Zurich City Council, Geomatics + Surveying 90
Barbara Emmenegger, Zurich 96 Anne Bürgisser, Wasterkingen 108
Excerpt from Grün Stadt Zürich Mission Statement 2002. Illustration: Mike van Audenhove, Zurich 134
Appendix