Coopérative Equilibre is a Geneva-based housing cooperative focused on sustainable living, integrating ecological practices and community engagement to enhance quality of life for its members.
Coopérative Equilibre is a unique housing cooperative in Geneva, Switzerland, that combines quality of life with sustainability. Founded in 2005, the cooperative has grown steadily, welcoming between 5 and 10 new member households annually until 2011, and then expanding to include around 100 new members each year from 2019 onwards. The cooperative's approach to housing is holistic, integrating ecological, social, and economic aspects. Their projects include innovative features such as natural and ecological sanitation systems, shared spaces, and energy-efficient designs. For example, their buildings at Cressy, Soubeyran, and Les Vergers showcase these principles, with structures made from wood and concrete, composting toilets, and professional car-sharing systems. Coopérative Equilibre is not just a housing provider; it is a community-driven initiative that emphasizes participation and mutual support. Members are actively involved in the development and management of the projects, fostering a sense of community and shared responsibility. The cooperative also collaborates with other organizations, such as Coopérative ChatPin, to develop projects like the Rolliet project in Plan-les-Ouates. The cooperative's commitment to sustainability extends beyond housing, with initiatives like the "projet alimentaire des Vergers," which aims to promote local food production and consumption. Coopérative Equilibre offers a distinctive model for sustainable living, blending ecological innovation with community engagement.