[1 September 2011] -- The video clip below illustrates the qualities that helped the German city of Hamburg become the 2011 European Green Capital, in a competition created by the European Commission in 2008 to recognise cities with good track records and ambitious plans to improve their environment.
The clip highlights how Hamburg balances economic and environmental development. The next European Green Capitals will be Vitoria-Gasteiz (Spain) for 2012 and Nantes (France) for 2013.
Will your city be Europe’s Green Capital?
Does your city deserve European-wide recognition for its hard work in meeting the environmental challenges our society is facing? Should your city be considered a leading destination for green tourism and green industry in Europe?
Applying for the 2014 edition of the European Green Capital could help your city gain the green reputation it deserves. Participating in the competition is a unique opportunity for your city to become an example at a European level and an ambassador for a better and greener world – just look at Hamburg, European Green Capital 2011. And what’s more, being awarded the Green Capital title can not only bring great advantages to your city’s image but also help boost its economy and attract tourists.
Applications for the next edition of the award will close on 14 October 2011.
Make sure your city is Europe’s Green Capital 2014! Information for mayors and city administrators that wish to apply is available on the Green Capital website: Applying for the Award.
About the European Green Capital Award
The European Green Capital Award is an initiative of the European Commission to promote and reward the efforts undertaken by local authorities to improve the environment and their high level of commitment to genuine progress.
It is given to a city that:
- Has a consistent record of achieving high environmental standards;
- Is committed to ongoing and ambitious goals for further environmental improvement and sustainable development;
- Can act as a role model to inspire other cities and promote best practices to all other European cities.
The award aims to provide an incentive for cities to inspire each other and share best practices, while at the same time engaging in friendly competition. In other words, the cities become role models for each other.
