Valencia has been chosen as the European Green Capital 2024.
The European Commission recognises and rewards cities* which have implemented projects that reduce their environmental impact and improve the quality of life for residents.
The announcement was made last week in the French town of Grenoble, the current European Green Capital.
Representatives of Valencia had put forward a proposal based on strong environmental values.
In addition to the creation and protection of green spaces, such as the Albufera Natural Park, the suburban orchard and the Turia Garden.
The city is also involved in sustainable mobility initiatives, excellent urban waste management and the recovery of public spaces, such as the Town Hall Square and the Plaza de la Reina, among others.
Valencia has received numerous important sustainability credentials over the years, such as the title of European Capital of Smart Tourism in 2022 and the Capital of Sustainable Food in 2017.
It has been a pioneer in measuring and offsetting the carbon and water footprint of tourism and is one of 100 cities selected by the European Union for the Cities Mission project, with the aim of achieving climate neutrality by 2030.
For the latest award, Valencia had to pass an extensive sustainability test.
12 indicators were measured, including air, noise, waste, water, nature and biodiversity, land use, eco-innovation, climate change mitigation, climate change adaptation, mobility, energy efficiency and governance.
It is the first time that Valencia has bid for the European Green Capital, a distinction that until now had only gone to one other Spanish city (Vitoria in 2012).
The award, which is worth €600,000, makes the city a benchmark for urban sustainability and ecological transition policies.
*Cities must have over 100,000 inhabitants to qualify
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