Modernization and building mobility: Why we need to build on the existing infrastructure
Cities of all sizes face a common challenge: their key infrastructure was never designed for the relentless pace of modern life. Millions of people rely on systems that are decades old, well past their intended lifespan and incompatible with climate goals.
This is particularly evident in ageing elevators and escalators. Around 10 million of these systems are in operation worldwide, most of them in densely populated city centers. They are more susceptible to faults and safety risks. Ageing elevators also often restrict the freedom of movement of people with disabilities, for example by making it difficult to open revolving doors.
Modernization is not just a question of safety or comfort. It is also one of the most effective instruments for reducing emissions. The construction industry is already responsible for around 40% of global CO₂ emissions – a figure that could double within 25 years if nothing is done. The European Commission estimates that 85 to 95% of the buildings that will exist in 2050 are already standing today. Replacing these buildings is not an option. The key to reducing CO₂ is therefore not to build new buildings, but to retrofit the older but still functioning systems.
For all those who want to keep their buildings and cities alive, modernization is a necessary investment in resilience, sustainability and general well-being. Today, networked, data-driven systems can detect wear and tear, predict maintenance requirements and extend the service life of systems – making cities not only safer, but also smarter and more environmentally friendly.
For many building owners, modernization is still a challenge. High investment costs, long downtimes and uncertainty about where to start are common concerns. Partial modernization is often a sensible middle way. It combines the advantages of new technologies with the continued use of intact components and thus significantly reduces costs and operational interruptions – without having to accept the expense and downtime of a complete replacement. In the elevator sector, this can save up to 90 percent CO₂ compared to a complete replacement.
Our cities cannot be redrawn, but they can be developed further. When we modernize the mobility systems that move millions of people every day, we create urban environments that are safer, more inclusive and more climate-friendly – and ready for the challenges of the coming decades.