EU launches ‘Green Capital of Europe’ award

The European Union has now officially recognised the importance of changing urban lifestyle habits if its targets for reducing carbon emissions are to be achieved.

The European Commission yesterday launched a new European Green Capital Award to coincide with world biodiversity day.

Environment Commissioner Stavros Dimas signed a declaration in Brussels last night establishing the award scheme.

The award will be given annually to cities that are at the leading edge of environmentally friendly urban living.

To win the award, cities will have to demonstrate a consistent record in high environmental standards, be setting ongoing long-term goals, and will be a role model for other cities.

At the launch Dimas said he hopes the award will function as a ‘powerful incentive’ for local authorites across Europe to green up their cities.

The scheme is open to all EU member states, candidate countries (Croatia, Turkey and Macedonia), and European Economic Area countries.

To qualify for the award, cities must have over 200,000 residents.

Applications for the 2010 and 2011 awards are now open.