MODELS FOR SUSTAINABLE URBAN DEVELOPMENT IN THE EU (GOOD PRACTICES AND CHALLENGES FOR NEW MEMBER STATES OF THE EU)

The focus of the study is on sustainable urban development in the context of the European Union (EU), examining best practices and challenges related to the adaptation of successful models in the new member states of the EU. The analysis is based on the example of three leading European cities – Barcelona, Amsterdam and Copenhagen, which are known for their innovative approaches to resource management, transport, energy efficiency and social integration. The aim is to identify innovations and sustainable solutions in resource management, transport, energy efficiency and social integration. The leading thesis is that sustainable urban development in the new member states can be accelerated through strategic governance, smart technology integration and active citizen participation, supported by effective public-private partnerships and innovative financial models. The methodology used is process and strategic benchmarking, which allows for a systematic comparison of different approaches and identification of opportunities for their implementation in newer EU Member States. The results show that the successful practices in the cities examined can be adapted to the specific contexts of the new member states, provided that there is effective interaction between local government, business and civil society. The research highlights the importance of sustainable policies and management strategies that contribute to long-term socio-economic and environmental goals.