The European Commission has launched the call for applications for the 2028 European Green Capital (EGC) and European Green Leaf (EGL) Awards. These titles recognise European cities that show outstanding commitment to sustainability, environmental innovation, and improving quality of life. Winning cities will receive a financial prize – EUR 600 000 for the Green Capital and EUR 200 000 for each Green Leaf winner – to implement high-impact environmental initiatives during their title year.
Book your seat, 1 month left to register, registration will end on Wednesday 1 April 2026, 00:00 (CEST)
- participatory democracy | innovation | health policy | quality of life | environmental policy | climate change policy
- Wednesday 1 April 2026, 00:00 (CEST)
- Policy Area
- Fair and healthy cities
- Prosperous and creative cities
- Resilient and decarbonised cities
- Step
- Apply
- Connect
Practical information
- When
- Wednesday 1 April 2026, 00:00 (CEST)
- Languages
- English
- Organisers
- Directorate-General for Climate Action
- Website
- Become a frontrunner in urban sustainability: Apply for the 2028 European Green…
Description
The European Commission launched on 8 December the call for applications for the 2028 European Green Capital (EGC) and European Green Leaf (EGL) Awards. These prestigious titles recognise and reward European cities that demonstrate a strong commitment to sustainability, environmental innovation and improving the quality of life for their residents.
Eligibility: Cities with more than 100 000 inhabitants are eligible to apply for the European Green Capital Award, for which one winning city will be selected. Smaller towns and cities with a population over 20 000 inhabitants can apply for the European Green Leaf Award, which recognises up to two winners each year.
Prize: The winners will receive a financial prize – EUR 600 000 for the Green Capital and EUR 200 000 for each of up to two Green Leaf winners – to support the implementation of high-impact environmental initiatives during their title year.
Reasons to apply: Becoming a Green Capital or Green Leaf winner is more than just receiving a prestigious title. What will your city gain?
Attract investment and tourism: Winning cities often see increased foreign investment and a boost in tourism, as the title signals a high quality of life and forward-thinking governance.
Accelerated sustainability momentum: The title gives cities strong political and public momentum to pursue more ambitious sustainability goals, creating a window of opportunity to advance transformative environmental action.
Expert feedback: Every applicant receives detailed, tailored feedback from independent experts. This serves as a free, high-level audit of your city’s environmental performance, helping you refine your future strategies.
Civic pride and momentum: The title unites citizens, businesses and local stakeholders behind a common purpose, accelerating the implementation of environmental projects.
Join the best: Winners gain access to an exclusive network of former title-holders to share knowledge and best practices.
How to apply: Interested cities must register via the EU Survey platform to receive the application form and supporting documents. Upon submitting their application, all cities will receive tailored feedback from independent experts. More details on the application process: https://environment.ec.europa.eu/topics/urban-environment/european-green-capital-award_en
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