Amsterdam bans creation of new hotels
Another piece in the overall strategy to reduce tourist flows to the city
See which cities are accepted into the final stages of the prestigious environmental contests
The next editions of the European Green Capital 2021 and European Green Leaf 2020 competitions now have their finalists. The first award has been given for more than ten years to cities with population exceeding 100 000 people in a bid to recognize their efforts and commitment to achieving sustainable urban development, while maintaining good living standard. The performance of the applicants is evaluated with respect to 12 environmental indicators by experts in sustainable development. Accordingly, these three cities have made it to the finals: Lahti (Finland), Lille and Strasbourg (France)
As for the European Green Leaf award, it was established in 2015 following the success of the Green Capital. Contrary to the latter, it is given to smaller cities from 20 000 to 100 000 people which shall respect 6 environmental indicators. Thus, in 2020 the shortlisted cities are three: Lappeenranta (Finland), Limerick (Ireland) and Mechelen (Belgium).
As quoted in a press release by the European Commission, the European Commissioner for the Environment, Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, Karmenu Vella, congratulated the cities stating that the “…awards showcase cities that are putting their citizens first, offering them a sustainable vision. As finalists, these cities have already taken the first step in proving their green credentials. I am confident that they can all be inspiring role models, demonstrating how we can make our cities better and healthier places – that’s what these competitions are all about.”
What follows next for the above-listed cities as part of the contest is to convince a jury composed of international experts in their merits when it comes to sustainable development and that they are able to serve as role models to other local authorities in Europe. As usual, the winners will be announced during and official ceremony hosted by the current beholder of the title – Oslo in June 2020. The corresponding financial rewards are EUR 350 000 and EUR 75 000 for the European Green Capital 2021 and European Green Leaf 2020 respectively.
As for the cities willing to apply for winning the titles for 2022, a special workshop will be organized in May in Brussels.
Silesian is spoken by about half a million people in the south of the country
Legislators and magnates have to await a preliminary ruling from the European Court of Justice
The building will then serve as the site for a new museum dedicated to Finnish-Russian relations
The tool helps identify undeclared swimming pools and garden sheds
It will serve as a virtual companion to the municipal network of libraries in the country
In addition, the federal government has launched the National Week of Action against Bicycle Theft to raise awareness of the issue and the new solution
The tests are also experimenting with a charging point that is easier to maintain
Reportedly, the aim of the local government is to curb violence and disorder among the youth
The city thinks that it’s time to update pet-related street cleanliness rules for the 21st century
For the English-speakers that would be Saint Domnius, the patron saint of the Dalmatian capital
The famed torch will pass through more than 400 cities and towns in both Metropolitan and Overseas France
Yes, you guessed it right, that also includes baguettes and cheeses
Urban dwellers across the EU are having a say in making their surroundings friendlier to people and the environment.
Forests in the EU can help green the European construction industry and bolster a continent-wide push for architectural improvements.
Apply by 10 November and do your part for the transformation of European public spaces
Catch up with some recommendations for the 2024 European Capital of Culture programme from the mayor of Tartu
An interview with the ICLEI regional director for Europe аfter the close of COP28
An interview with a member of the No Hate Speech Network team