Housing is a fundamental social need and right, essential for human development, identity, and belonging. However, many Europeans struggle to find affordable housing, which affects not only the most vulnerable but also those who earn too much to qualify for social housing yet too little to afford private market accommodations comfortably. In the long term, lack of access to affordable and sustainable housing can lead to health issues, social inequalities, increased healthcare costs, reduced productivity, and environmental damage.
This study by the European Economic and Social Committee explores policy solutions for affordable and sustainable housing in the European Union (EU), emphasising several factors which are crucial throughout the building process: habitability, community, economic accessibility, resource efficiency, circularity, and climate change resilience.
It investigates two emerging trends: digitalisation and the integration of social economy entities into housing provision, which not only address immediate housing challenges but also align with broader societal shifts such as ageing populations. Digitalisation optimises planning, construction, and management, enhancing resource efficiency, while social economy entities prioritise community-oriented, sustainable housing solutions that promote affordability, long-term stability and resilience. The research offers medium and long-term policy recommendations aimed at fostering inclusive, affordable, and sustainable housing across Europe.
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