ABSTRACT: How Copenhagen, Denmark is one of the healthiest cities in the world

Copenhagen is the capital city of Denmark, with a population of over 600,000 and an area of approximately 34 square miles. Copenhagen is known as one of the healthiest cities to live, and was even named the “European green capital” of 2014 (D’Onofrio & Trusiani 2018). The aim for the city is to have zero emissions by 2025. By looking at the design strategies in place in the city, its sustainable redevelopment, community involvement and pedestrianization, it’s easy to see why Copenhagen is one of the world leaders for healthy cities due to multiple factors. It is believed that in the case of Copenhagen, “actions initiated and realized on the micro level of planning make it clear how urban planning and urban design can affect the quality of life and health of inhabitants” (D’Onofrio & Trusiani 2018).

By increasing the facilities available and improving the use of public spaces, progress has been seen within the city towards better overall public spaces (Camila Ariza 2019). The number of outdoor events in Copenhagen have increased between 34 and 80% depending on the district, demonstrating an overall improvement in the general quality of life. This has been achieved through the development of “attractive public spaces, greater and better possibilities for leisure activities, as well as outdoor urban furniture throughout the city” which has encouraged more and more residents to take advantage of the outdoor public spaces and ultimately choose to improve their health (Camila Ariza 2019).

Three aspects of the development of Copenhagen which I will be focussing on include its pedestrianization, its outdoor space development and community involvement, and the impact of Jan Gehl and Gehl Architects on the sustainable design and redevelopment throughout the city.