Berlin’s €9M sustainability push transforms medicine, water, and construction with AI

From AI-optimized medicine deliveries to smart water pipes and drone logistics, Berlin’s bold experiments could redefine urban sustainability. Will these pilots spark a global shift?

, and Administrator

2026 January 14 . 5:11 PM

1 min read

The image shows the Puma factory in Germany, with buildings, motor vehicles on the road, street... — The image shows the Puma factory in Germany, with buildings, motor vehicles on the road, street poles, street lights, trees, plants, grass and a sky with clouds in the background.

Berlin’s €9M sustainability push transforms medicine, water, and construction with AI

Berlin is launching three new research projects to tackle sustainability challenges in medicine, water use, and construction. The schemes aim to cut emissions, reduce waste, and improve urban living. Each project will test practical solutions over the next three years.

The IWIQ real-world lab focuses on speeding up medicine delivery while lowering transport emissions and waste. Partners include Fraunhofer IFF, Magdeburg University, and local firms like IWIQ GmbH. Since 2022, pilot tests in Magdeburg have used AI to streamline supply chains. The team also explores reusing grey water for heat recovery.

The B(e)Ware real-world lab targets smarter water management in Berlin. Led by Berliner Wasserbetriebe, TU Berlin, and the city’s environmental department, it tests smart pipes, recycling systems, and AI monitoring. The goal is to cut water losses by 20–30%. A pilot at a water rescue station on Müggelsee reuses building materials in construction.

The U-Space Berlin lab examines sustainable building and drone logistics. Partners like TU Berlin, Hochtief, and the Berlin Senate are testing CO₂-neutral materials, digital models of buildings, and drone deliveries for light goods. Demonstrations began in 2024 at Berlin-Adlershof.

All three projects will share €9 million in funding from Berlin’s economic administration over three years.

The initiatives aim to develop ‘Made in Berlin’ innovations that boost sustainability and quality of life. Results from the pilots could shape future policies for greener cities. Funding runs until 2027, with progress monitored by local authorities and research teams.