The IWOL Project (Integral Way of Living) has reached a major milestone with the release of its report on the 2023 awareness campaign and feasibility study. Since its launch in 2021, the project has aimed to explore and develop innovative living and housing concepts that enhance the social, ecological, and economic value in the communities of Liechtenstein.
Project Overview
The IWOL Project began as a research initiative in collaboration with the University of Liechtenstein. The first phase, completed in 2022, focused on developing sustainable settlement designs based on energy-efficient and resource-conserving construction methods. The second phase, in 2023, involved a comprehensive awareness campaign and a feasibility study that examined the feasibility of implementing such concepts within the Liechtenstein context.
Results of the Awareness Campaign
The awareness campaign included a series of events such as workshops, exhibitions, and local meetings aimed at raising awareness of sustainable lifestyles and communal living models. Notably, an online survey captured the sentiments of the people of Liechtenstein and the Rhine Valley. The results showed an increasing willingness to consider alternative housing forms such as cooperatives or tiny houses, as well as strong support for the communal use of resources.
Insights from the Feasibility Study
The feasibility study, conducted in collaboration with Lenum AG, examined the legal framework and identified obstacles as well as opportunities for the realization of sustainable settlement developments. A key finding of the study is that existing building regulations in Liechtenstein could be made more flexible through targeted adjustments to promote sustainable and regenerative building projects. The municipality of Vaduz, in particular, has significant leeway to act, especially through the use of planning and development schemes.
Outlook and Next Steps
The results of the survey and feasibility study underscore the need to actively promote communal living forms and sustainable lifestyles. Interest and willingness among the population are present. It is now up to the municipalities and policymakers to create the necessary framework and take the required steps to turn this vision into reality.
The IWOL Project demonstrates that the shift towards a more sustainable and community-oriented way of life is possible—if we are ready to explore new paths and work together.
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