Challenges and opportunities of citylab certification in urban development; a study of its impact on planning and implementation

Abstract

As sustainability becomes more and more central within urban development, certification systems has emerged as an important tool for guiding and evaluating sustainable practice. Citylab, a certification system created by Swedish Green Building Counsil, aims to guide developers through structured, goal-oriented planning according to environmental, social, and economic sustainability targets. The thesis investigates the challenges and opportunities companies face when pursuing Citylab certification. Through a qualitative case study of Wallenstam’s Kallebäck Allé development project and interviews with respondents who have used Citylab certification system, the study examines the role of Citylab certification in the planning and implementation of urban development projects. The findings show that Citylab provides valuable structure and fosters early integration of sustainability goals. However, the system is limited by complexity, high administrative demands, and limited adaptability. The opportunities identified in the study includes the system’s potential to improve collaboration between stakeholders, create organizational learning, and align projects with national and international sustainability frameworks. However, barriers such as unclear indicator requirements, limited internal knowledge, and additional costs were seen to hinder its broader implementation. The certification was perceived more as a strategic process than a trademark, where the framework contributes to internal development and goal management. The structure of Citylab was found to support early decision-making and foster long-term visions, however the system must be simplified and better align with project workflows to become more preferred. These insights contribute to the ongoing development of certification systems and offer guidance for municipalities, developers, and consultants considering Citylab in future urban planning projects