Workshop for applicant cities: the European Green Capital and Green Leaf Awards 2027

The cities interested in applying to become European Green Capital and European Green Leaf in 2027 were invited to participate online in an informative workshop on 19 February 2025. Relevant stakeholders, such as supporting organisations, were also welcome to take part.

This event provided a comprehensive overview of the competition process, designed to help cities across Europe understand the necessary steps needed to make a successful application. The workshop featured valuable insights and advice from a member of the expert panel responsible for city assessments. Participants learnt about key evaluation criteria, best practices and practical tips to navigate the application process effectively.

Additionally, participants had the opportunity to hear directly from previous award winners, who shared their inspiring journeys, challenges and achievements in being recognised as leaders in urban sustainability.

Every year, one European city with over 100 000 inhabitants is designated as the European Green Capital, while up to two smaller cities with populations of at least 20 000 inhabitants are honored as European Green Leaf award recipients. Not only the winners but also all the finalists of the European Green Capital and Green Leaf Awards become eligible to join the network of European Green Capitals, contributing to and benefiting from the collective expertise.

Cities interested in entering the competition for the 2027 European Green Capital and European Green Leaf Awards are encouraged to Applying for the Awards

Benefits of the European Green Capital and Leaf Awards

-Many cities find entering the competition is a “key driver for urban transformation”.

-The Green Capital Award provides cities with important leverage at the local political level, helping to advance sustainable projects and unlock investments at the city, national, and European levels.

-This Award is not just a one-off prize – it is a year-long project that creates a lasting legacy for the future.

-Winning cities invest in sustainable solutions for their citizens and get ahead of Green Deal targets earlier than others.

-As a result, these cities become more energy efficient, produce less waste, enjoy a heightened sense of well-being, and have a reduced environmental impact.

-The Award is also about sharing exemplary environmental practices with other cities, motivating city authorities to invest in sustainable urban living.

-Award winners often invest in education and engage their citizens in the green transition. Many begin with specific awareness raising and educational programmes for young people in schools, providing an important benefit for all.

-For the European Commission, award-winning cities are key reference points when selecting examples for urban initiatives, such as the Covenant of Mayors for Climate and Energy, the 100 Climate Cities Mission, the New European Bauhaus or the Urban Mobility Days. They may also participate at EU pavilions/stands at global events such the World Exhibition or COPs (non-exhaustive list).

What is the ‘green legacy’?

-As the saying goes, "once a green capital, always as green capital". The benefits of receiving the European Green Capital title extend well beyond the designated year.

-Winning cities have reported an increase in tourism and more positive international media coverage.

-They also attract private and continuous public investments, leading to job creation.

-The title helps in building new alliances and networking opportunities.

-Last but not least, it boosts local pride and motivates behavioural change among residents, contributing to long-term sustainable development.

What can other cities learn from Green Capital winners?

-The main message is that greener cities perform better. They prosper, attract investment, create more green and smart jobs and provide an environment where people are happy to work, live, learn, play and grow old.

-Another key takeaway is that choosing to pursue a greener path is the best investment for the future. No award winner wants to go back to the past.

Watch the recording of the workshop below.