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Valencian Government urges cities to apply for 2028 European Green Cities Awards

Valencian Community / 2nd March 2026

 

The Valencian Government is encouraging cities and municipalities across the Valencian Community to apply for the 2028 European Commission European Green Cities Awards.

 

The call for applications is now open for the European Green Capital Award and the European Green Leaf Award, which recognise European cities demonstrating outstanding commitment to sustainability, environmental innovation and improving quality of life.

 

The Green Capital Award is aimed at cities with more than 100,000 inhabitants, while the Green Leaf Award is open to municipalities with populations between 20,000 and 100,000. One Green Capital and up to two Green Leaf winners will be selected.

 

Rocío Pont, Director General of European Funds, said cities play a crucial role in tackling climate change, pollution and biodiversity loss. “Becoming a Green Capital or Green Leaf city is a transformative opportunity. Beyond the prestigious title, selected cities gain financial support, international visibility and new opportunities to attract investment and sustainable tourism.”

 

Winners will receive €600,000 for the Green Capital and €200,000 for each Green Leaf winner to support high-impact environmental initiatives.

 

Applications must be submitted via the EU Survey platform by 1 April 2026. All applicants will receive personalised feedback from independent sustainability experts.

 

The awards assess cities across seven environmental indicators, including air quality, water, biodiversity, green areas, waste and circular economy, noise, and climate change mitigation and adaptation.