Applications Open: EU Green Capital and Green Leaf Awards 2028!
Awards Page
Image from Unsplash by David Vives
CIVITAS is pleased to share the launch of the call for applications for the European Green Capital and European Green Leaf Awards 2028, an initiative led by the European Commission. The awards recognise cities that demonstrate strong leadership in sustainability, environmental innovation and improving quality of life for their residents while reducing their environmental impact.
Who can apply?
- European Green Capital Award: Cities with more than 100,000 inhabitants
- European Green Leaf Award: Towns and cities with more than 20,000 inhabitants
This year, CIVITAS encourages its cities to apply and showcase their achievements in citizen-centred urban planning and sustainable mobility.
Several CIVITAS Cities have previously been recognised as European Green Capitals, including Vitoria-Gasteiz (Spain), Vilnius (Lithuania) and Treviso, (Italy) for placing mobility at the heart of its decarbonisation efforts. From expanding green spaces and promoting inclusive urban planning to advancing smart and connected transport solutions, cities are invited to share their inspiring stories and best practices.
With over two-thirds of Europeans living in urban areas, cities play a central role in addressing climate and environmental challenges. Transport-related greenhouse gas emissions account for around a quarter of Europe’s total emissions, making urban action essential to achieving the European Green Deal’s target of a 90% reduction in GHG emissions by 2050.
Could your city be the next European Green Capital or Green Leaf Award winner?
Winning cities receive not only a financial prize of €600,000 for the Green Capital and €200,000 for each Green Leaf winner, but also join a growing network of leading European cities, sharing expertise and inspiring others to follow their lead.
How to apply
Cities interested in applying must register via the EU Survey platform to access the application form and supporting documents.
Deadline for applications: 1 April 2026
For more information and practical details, click here.
