About the Urban Agenda for the EU
The Urban Agenda for the EU (UAEU) is a multilevel and multistakeholder working method and institutional innovation to address the urban dimension of EU policies. It promotes cooperation between Member States, cities, the European Commission, and other stakeholders, by forming Thematic Partnerships on critical urban challenges. The overall objective is to integrate urban considerations into EU policies, ensuring better regulation, funding, and knowledge for cities across Europe.
The UAEU has previously launched 18 Thematic Partnerships, which focus on various urban issues. The recent Gijon Agreement (2023) has prioritised the themes of "Water Sensitive City" and "Building Decarbonisation."
The thematic focuses of the new Partnerships
Water Sensitive City
The “Water Sensitive City” Partnership will shift the approach to urban water management by viewing water not as a challenge but as a valuable resource. The thematic scope of Water Sensitive City needs to address the complex interplay between water resources, water quality, urban infrastructure, environmental sustainability, and societal needs within urban areas. By adopting a holistic perspective, the partnership will seek to simplify access to the water-sensitive city concept, serving as a central hub for cities and their supporters.
Building Decarbonisation
The “Building Decarbonisation” Partnership will focus on the interaction of integrated renovation programmes and local heating and cooling plans that advance cities’ social, economic, and environmental goals. For integrated renovation programmes and local heating and cooling plans to be a success, district and neighbourhood approaches to renovation are essential. The Partnership will include all types of buildings within integrated renovation programmes, but with a focus on improving the housing stock through collaboration with spatially related non-residential and public buildings.
Why become a partner
Joining these partnerships offers a unique opportunity to drive innovation, policy reform, and practical solutions that will benefit both the environment and communities. Thematic Partnerships facilitate multi-level cooperation, enabling cities of all sizes, Member States, civil society, and research institutions to jointly drive transformative change. They provide a platform for knowledge exchange, policy development, and advocacy for better regulation, funding, and collaboration.
During the lifespan of the Partnership, members will agree on key topics of interest as well as on a set of common actions that will be defined in an Action Plan. This Action Plan is the key output of the Partnership and will outline a clear roadmap for the implementation of each action (steps, activities, timing, resources, responsible partners).
Have a look at this short video and find out how current partners experience their involvement in the Urban Agenda for the EU.
How to apply
Cities of all sizes, regions, Member States, Partner States, and other relevant stakeholders interested in joining the "Water Sensitive City" and "Building Decarbonisation" partnerships can apply by submitting the appropriate application. The application deadline is scheduled for 2 October 2024 at 14:00 CEST:
Apply to become a partner of the Thematic Partnership on "Water Sensitive City"
Apply to become a partner of the Thematic Partnership on "Building Decarbonisation"
These partnerships present an invaluable opportunity to be at the forefront of shaping sustainable urban development in Europe. By participating, stakeholders can contribute to meaningful change that aligns with broader environmental and social goals.
