In cooperation with specialists at the ETH Zurich, we have developed systematic, municipality-transcending bases for the Obersee agglomeration within the framework of the agglomeration program of the fourth generation. The agglomeration area consists of seventeen municipalities in the Cantons of St.Gallen, Schwyz, and Zurich, on the eastern edge of Lake Zurich. The current agglomeration program builds on the insights of the preceding program and calls for in-depth examinations of the topic of the quality of open space. Particular emphasis has thus been put on adapting settlement areas to climate change.
Our work examines the airflow and supply of cool air in the region, the range of easily reachable open and green spaces, and their quality in light of the increasing warming of the climate. Based on this work, we have developed strategies for upgrading open spaces in settlement areas and for improving the climate there. Particular emphasis has thus been put on concrete implementation potentials for developing settlement areas adapted to the climate for the municipalities and for enabling them to take action so as to create high-quality open spaces.
Linear open spaces in cold-air corridors, for instance, along bodies of water, are particularly effective for a good flow of air and supply of cool air. A clever placement of buildings on the edge of settlement areas also ensures a flow of air within settlement areas. A well-connected range of open spaces consisting of tree-lined paths and parks also creates easily reachable, cool places to spend time in the summer for sensitive groups of individuals. Green areas with large trees, open, flowing bodies of water, and extensive retention areas, light-colored surfaces, and surfacing that facilitates seepage create high-quality outdoor spaces that are adapted to the climate at the same time.