Green Cities Fit for Life
Award Background
Background, Vision and Aim
The idea of a European Green Capital was originally conceived at a meeting in Tallinn, Estonia.
The meeting was held in May 2006 on the initiative of the former City Mayor, Jüri Ratas who said,
“It is my belief that a green and sustainable Europe is essential for improving public health and the quality of life of our citizens”.
The Tallinn Memorandum
In Tallinn, 15 European cities and the Association of Estonian cities signed a joint memorandum proposing the establishment of the European Green Capital award scheme. Currently, more than 40 major European cities, including 21 EU capitals support the initiative. And major cities from all over the EU are getting ready to take part in this race for environmental recognition.
Click to download the Tallin Memorandum
Improve City Environments
The general aim of the initiative is to improve the European urban living environment – and thus the environment as a whole. Currently, 3 out of 4 of the European population living in an urban environment, it is natural that cities play a key role in making the environment greener and improving the quality of life of its citizens.