In June this year, I had the privilege of representing the European Committee of the Regions in my capacity as the ECR Co-ordinator for the ENVE Commission. I was part of the international jury for the European Green Capital & European Green Leaf Awards held in Oslo, Norway – the current Green Capital.

The Chair of our jury of five was Joanna Drake, Deputy Director-General DG Environment of the European Commission.

The Finnish city of Lahti won the title of European Green Capital 2021 and received 350k euros as a financial incentive from the European Commission to kick start its year. The cities of Lille & Strasbourg were worthy runners up.

Our decision was unanimous and we emphasised that green cities are healthier and happier places for people to grow, live and work in and for visitors too.

The European Green Leaf Award was shared by the Irish city of Limerick and the Belgian city of Mechelen. These awards are given to towns & cities with populations between 20,000 & 100,000 citizens for their potential to act as ‘green ambassadors’ for smaller cities.

These prestigious titles were awarded by Karmenu Vella, the EU Commissioner for Environment, Maritime Affairs & Fisheries at an outstanding gala awards ceremony.

It was a wonderful and memorable experience to be part of such an experienced and respected jury for those two days. The inclusion of a CoR member amongst them seems pivotal in our aim to truly represent the good work of the populations of regions and communities that elect us. I was very proud to be that member on this occasion and would like to thank the organisers for the opportunity.