Commission Launches Competition for the 2027 European Green Capital and Green Leaf Awards

The European Commission invites European cities committed to sustainability to apply for the 2027 European Green Capital and Green Leaf Awards. The application process is now open, and the deadline for submission is 15 April 2025.

These prestigious awards recognize and reward European towns and cities that have taken significant steps to reduce their environmental impact while enhancing the quality of life for their citizens. The winners will receive financial prizes and gain access to a growing network of leading sustainable cities.

Key Highlights of the Awards:

• European Green Capital Award: Open to cities with over 100,000 inhabitants.
• European Green Leaf Award: Available for smaller towns and cities with populations over 20,000.
• Prizes:
  • Green Capital Winner: €600,000
  • Green Leaf Winners: Up to €200,000 each (for one or two winners)

The financial prize will assist the winning cities in implementing sustainability initiatives and engaging their citizens in environmental projects during the award year. All applicants will also receive personalized feedback to help refine their sustainability plans.

Application Process

Interested cities can apply through the EU Survey Portal to gain access to the relevant documents and application form. The application deadline is 15 April 2025.

Cities will be assessed on seven key environmental indicators:

• Air quality
• Water management
• Biodiversity
• Green spaces and land use
• Waste management and circular economy
• Noise reduction
• Climate change mitigation and adaptation

Finalists will be selected around June/July 2025 and will be invited to present additional information on their sustainable governance and communication strategies. The final winners will be chosen in October 2025.

Why Apply?

The European Green Capital and Green Leaf Awards provide cities with the opportunity to showcase their dedication to environmental sustainability and receive financial support for future projects. Winning cities also gain recognition and can inspire other urban areas across Europe and the world to adopt more sustainable practices.

Important Dates

• Application Deadline: 15 April 2025
• Finalist Announcement: June/July 2025
• Winner Announcement: October 2025

Apply Now

Cities eager to make a difference in the fight for a greener future should not miss this opportunity to apply. Submit your application now for the chance to become a European Green Capital or Green Leaf Award winner.

Apply here
Learn More About the Awards

Background

Launched by the European Commission, the European Green Capital Award aims to inspire cities to adopt sustainable policies that improve both their environmental performance and quality of life. With over two-thirds of Europe’s population living in cities, urban areas play a pivotal role in achieving the goals of the European Green Deal and ensuring a sustainable future for all.

To date, 17 cities have received the European Green Capital Award and 19 cities have won the Green Leaf Award, forming a network of innovative and sustainable cities.

For more information, visit the official European Green Capital website and follow the awards on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn.