The awards recognise and reward local action towards a transition to a greener, more sustainable future. Winning cities become symbols of environmentalism, and are granted a cash price as well as international recognition, and exclusive membership in an active network of former winners.
Research and Innovation, Digital transition, Local production, Mobility....
Sustainable soil and land use, Food sytems, Climate adaptation, Energy transition...
Affordable housing, Education and employment, Health and well-being...
The European Commission is calling on cities with outstanding environmental performance, vision, and commitment to apply to become symbols of sustainability. The green city awards include two titles: The European Green Capital (EGC) for cities over 100.000 habitants and the European Green Leaf (EGL) for smaller cities as of 20.000 habitants.
Applications are accepted from EU Member States and countries of the European Economic Area (EEA) and non-EU countries that participate in the LIFE Programme: Iceland, Ukraine, Moldova.
Apply to be the #EUGreenCapital & #EUGreenLeaf Awards for 2026 ✍️
How does it work?
➰visit our website and get all the info you need
➰start your application
➰ submit by the deadline
Will your city be the next? 🌱🏆🇪🇺
The Awards are the recognition of excellence by the European Commission for outstanding efforts towards creating a sustainable city, providing widespread recognition and visibility to any settlement, which in turn draws investment, tourism, and is viewed favourably at other EU initiatives and opportunities. In addition, 600 000 EUR is provided for the Green Capital, and 200 000 EUR for the Green Leaf winner(s), supporting further efforts of sustainability. Moreover, the award year gives the opportunity to organise a number of high-profile, international events, providing great opportunities for increasing the professional network of the municipality. Finally, winners of the Green Capital Award will gain access to an exclusive network of former winners and finalists, where further ideas can be developed and exchanged in an informal setting.
Learn how the different actors in sustainable
urban develoment interact and find the ones that can help you.
