This conference explores how cities can meet human needs while respecting the environment. Drawing on the ideas of the world-renowned Luxembourgish architect Léon Krier (1946–2025), who championed human-scale, legible cities, it shows how sustainable urban design has evolved over time. Krier also emphasised the connection between urban planning and local culture, demonstrating that sustainability is not only technical but also social and cultural. Contemporary projects, such as Bhutan’s Gelephu Mindfulness City, continue this vision by combining ecological, faith-inspired, and social values.

Sustainable urbanism also depends on a strong legal, financial, and policy framework. The European Investment Bank supports cities worldwide through EU and global initiatives aimed at achieving climate-neutral goals. Local laws and policies, especially in Luxembourg, provide essential guidance to ensure urban development meets environmental, social, and economic objectives.

The conference brings together architects, planners, lawyers, and policymakers to share knowledge and inspire action. It offers a platform for local and international perspectives on building innovative and resilient cities for the future.

Organised by the Conférence Saint-Yves and the Association luxembourgeoise pour le droit de l’environnement (ALDE) in collaboration with the BnL.