Cologne has supercharged its environment and waste management industry in preparation to meet the country’s net zero goals. The city has sparked off a venerable environmental revolution, setting new standards in urban sustainability and waste management. For one, Cologne prioritizes citizen wellbeing by allotting a significant portion of space to parks, open areas and woodlands. The Rhine Park and the extensive Outer Greenbelt, which wraps around the city's western and southern perimeters, provide residents and visitors with ample opportunities to enjoy nature. Additionally, the inner parklands, further enhance the city's green footprint. But why stop there, which is what the University of Cologne's Urban Gardening Project thought and spearheaded an initiative to turn urban spaces into verdant oases, which was supported by students, lecturers and local residents. Alongside community involvement, the project aims to boost biodiversity in the city. Gardens and green spaces require thriving ecosystems, and Cologne is addressing this through its partnership with the HonigConnection project. This initiative promotes beekeeping and aims to alleviate 'insect poverty' by supporting bee populations. Last year, the project successfully engaged 20 youth centers to plant 10,000 crocuses. One of Cologne’s most ambitious sustainability initiatives is SmartCity Cologne, which launched in 2011. The city government and local energy provider Rhein-Energie AG teamed up to bring together individuals, companies and associations to develop innovative ideas and technologies aimed at improving urban living. SmartCity Cologne focuses on promoting the conscious and sustainable use of energy, while the Cologne Global-Sustainable project by Allerwelthaus Köln seeks to raise awareness of the United Nations' 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and facilitate their local implementation. This project, together with the Cologne Municipal Sustainability Alliance, works to engage the community in sustainable practices and advocate for political commitment to sustainability.