Pillar 1:
Ecological transition in the field of culture

Priority 6:
Improving the energy efficiency of cultural buildings

The MuseumQuartier Wien (MQ) is the cornerstone of Vienna’s cultural identity and is now becoming a pioneer in urban sustainability as well. Through the “MQ goes Green” initiative, the complex is turning environmental and social responsibility into concrete action, specifically focusing on transforming its historic courtyards into climate-resilient green spaces.  

Through a carefully planned urban forestry and planting strategy, the MQ is combating the urban heat island effect by introducing a variety of climate-resilient trees and perennial plants. The MQ relies on an innovative “sponge-city” principle: as these trees grow, they provide natural shading and active cooling through transpiration, significantly lowering the temperature. Combined with the wide variety of surrounding plants, they foster urban biodiversity and create a healthy microclimate and a welcoming oasis for citizens and tourists alike.  

Alongside this major greening effort, the MQ is modernizing its daily operations through LED lighting upgrades and smart waste management. The complex is also introducing small-scale social innovations, such as accessible deposit-bottle rings on trash cans.