European Commission launches competition for 2027 European Green Capital and Green Leaf applicants

The European Commission has opened the application process for the 2027 European Green Capital and Green Leaf Awards, inviting European cities committed to sustainability to apply by 15 April 2025.

These prestigious awards recognise cities for their efforts in reducing environmental impact while improving the quality of life for residents. Winning cities will receive a financial prize and join a network of European cities leading the way in sustainability.

The European Green Capital award is available to cities with populations of over 100 000, while the European Green Leaf award targets smaller cities with populations of more than 20 000. The Green Capital winner will receive EUR 600 000, while up to two Green Leaf winners will receive EUR 200 000 each. These prizes help cities fund sustainability initiatives and engage with citizens during their award year.

Applications will be assessed based on seven environmental indicators: air quality, water, biodiversity, green areas, waste management, noise, and climate change mitigation and adaptation.

Urban mobility is an important part of the sustainability criteria for both awards. Cities are recognised for implementing transport solutions that reduce emissions and promote sustainable mobility. Past winners have introduced successful urban mobility initiatives, such as:

• Águeda (Portugal): TThe European Green Leaf winner in 2026, Águeda was recognised for its commitment to sustainable transport, including its beÁgueda shared-use e-bike programme. The city has also worked with the national train company to improve local train schedules and services, enhancing intermodality and better meeting residents' needs.
• Treviso (Italy): The 2025 European Green Leaf winner, Treviso was recognised for its development and application of its sustainable urban mobility plan (SUMP). The city has developed a 32 km cycling network, established 30 bike-sharing stations, and is investing in electric buses and charging infrastructure.
• Valencia (Spain): The 2024 European Green Capital award winner, Valencia was recognised for its investments in cycling infrastructure, creating over 164 km of cycle lanes. The city is also working on electrifying its public transport fleet and developing multimodal transport hubs to encourage shifts toward walking, cycling, and public transport.

Interested cities are invited to register here or, follow this link for more information.

Author: Dearbhla Mullin

Views and opinions expressed are those of the author(s) and do not reflect those of the European Commission.