European Commission

 

Policy & Guidance


EU Policy

Urban areas are the source of many of today’s environmental challenges – not surprisingly, since three out of four Europeans live in towns and cities. Local governments and authorities can provide the commitment and innovation needed to tackle and resolve many of these problems.

One of the policy tools the European Commission is using to address these challenges is the European Green Capital Award (EGCA), which recognises and rewards local efforts to improve the environment, the economy and the quality of life in cities. The EGCA is given each year to a city, not necessarily a capital, which is leading the way in environmentally friendly urban living and which can thus act as a role-model to inspire other cities. Cities differ enormously and sharing concrete examples of what a European Green Capital can look like is essential if further progress is to be made.

Roadmap for a resource-efficient Europe

The European Commission have set out a roadmap aimed at transforming Europe’s economy into a sustainable one by 2050 and help achieve a resource-efficient Europe which is essential for our future wellbeing and prosperity.

Thematic Strategy on Urban Environment

Recognising this important role of cities, the Commission committed itself to act in this area through the Sixth Environmental Action Programme issued in 2002. Later followed the Thematic Strategy on the Urban Environment which aims to promote a more integrated approach to urban management and support cities in their efforts to this end. A dedicated area on the Commission’s website provides more guidance and information about integrated environmental management.

EU Sustainable Development Strategy

Urban areas play an important role in delivering the objectives of the EU Sustainable Development Strategy. Updated information about the strategy is available on European portal on sustainable development including citizens guides, progress reports and examples of action taken by others, etc.

Green thinking and Best Practice Guides and Reports

Providing information and examples of existing solutions to municipalities and local authorities is essential, since it allows them to learn from each other and develop plans adapted to their specific situation.

Click here to view and download examples of guidance documents, best practice reports and networks with links to further information.

Funding for Green Initiatives

The European Green Capital scheme does not include any pool of funds to support initiatives of participating cities. But it may be relevant for local authorities to explore other funding opportunities at the EU level. For details see the overview of funding opportunities on the Commission’s website.

Cities can take advantage of the Structural Funds, for example, by forming a thematic urban network under URBACT II or by making use of the European Urban Knowledge Network.

Furthermore, one of the specific programmes under the 7th Framework Programme for Research and Technological Development (2007-2013) is ‘Cooperation’ which includes a distinct theme on Environment.