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Benidorm reaffirms its commitment to sustainability at the opening of Guimarães’ year as European Green Capital 2026

 

Guimarães, Portugal / 9 January 2026

 

Benidorm has reaffirmed its commitment to sustainability and climate resilience by taking part in the opening events of Guimarães’ year as European Green Capital 2026, held this week in Portugal.

A delegation from Benidorm, led by Mayor Toni Pérez, participated in a series of high-level institutional meetings aligned with the European agenda for sustainable and green cities. These meetings brought together political leaders and municipal representatives from across Europe to strengthen cooperation on environmental, climate and social challenges.

 

Benidorm’s participation reinforces its position within the network of European destinations committed to sustainability. In 2025, the city was recognised by the European Commission as a Pioneer Green Destination for Smart Tourism and was selected as one of the four finalist cities for European Green Leaf 2027.

 

The programme began on Thursday in Águeda, during the official European Green Leaf ceremony, where Benidorm was recognised as a Green Ambassador as part of the Green Ambassadors Programme. The initiative highlights the role of cities as key actors in implementing environmental policies at both local and European levels.

 

On Friday, the delegation attended the Opening Ceremony of Guimarães 2026, which marked the formal start of the European Green Capital year. The event gathered mayors, institutional representatives and political leaders from across Europe.

 

 

Mayor Toni Pérez said:

“Our participation symbolises the shared commitment of European cities to delivering the European Green Deal, promoting sustainable urban policies and strengthening cooperation between territories to address climate, environmental and social challenges.”

 

The Mayor also congratulated Águeda and Guimarães on their European recognition:

“Both cities demonstrate a genuine commitment to a more sustainable, innovative and people-centred development model. From Benidorm, we extend our sincere congratulations to their municipal teams and citizens for this important achievement, which places Portugal at the heart of the European green agenda.”

 

Mr Pérez underlined the importance of inter-city collaboration and thanked both host cities for their hospitality:

“It has been an honour to share experiences with other European cities committed to the green transition. Águeda and Guimarães are not only leaders in sustainability, but also outstanding examples of cooperation, dialogue and European spirit.”

 

Benidorm’s presence at these international forums forms part of its ongoing European Green Leaf 2027 candidacy and its active role within the European Green Cities Network, in line with the European Union’s objectives on sustainability, innovation and quality of urban life.

 

The delegation also included Mónica Gómez, Councillor for the Environment, and Leire Bilbao, Managing Director of the Visit Benidorm Foundation.