Ladies and gentlemen, distinguished guests, representatives of cities from across Europe and beyond,
It is an honour and a privilege to be here today in one of my first public engagements as European Commissioner for Environment. The presence of so many visionary city representatives here today fills me with hope and confidence.
Cities are the beating heart of our societies. They cover less than 4 percent of the EU’s landmass but are home to 75 percent of our population. They account for over 70 percent of global CO₂ emissions and consume more than 65 percent of the world’s energy. While these numbers reflect significant challenges, they also underscore an opportunity: cities are uniquely positioned to lead the transformation we need.
I am inspired by the bold leadership of Swedish cities. Stockholm, as the first-ever European Green Capital in 2010, set the stage for the ambitious path we now follow. Today, others continue to pave the way by embracing initiatives like the Covenant of Mayors for Climate and Energy and the Green City Accord. These efforts not only combat climate change but also enhance air and water quality, reduce noise, and promote biodiversity.
Through the EU Mission on Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities, 112 European cities have committed to achieving climate neutrality by 2030. I am proud that Swedish cities have been at the forefront of this movement, inspiring the framework itself and setting an example for other cities across Europe. Together, these cities are set to reduce nearly 200 million tons of CO₂. That would correspond to the combined annual emissions of the Netherlands and Croatia. This is what leadership looks like.
I therefore urge all cities here today to consider participating in initiatives such as the European Green Capital and Green Leaf Awards. Beyond recognition, these programs create a network of frontrunners who collaborate and share best practices, driving innovation and raising the bar for environmental stewardship.
Ladies and gentlemen,
The European Green Deal remains our guiding blueprint for sustainability. Despite the obstacles we face—political, practical, and external—we must remain steadfast in our resolve. These challenges should inspire us to accelerate the green transition, not delay it.
The benefits of climate action in cities are tangible. It means clean air, quiet streets, and green spaces. Swedish and European cities are demonstrating this reality through innovative urban designs and community-driven projects. Your work sets a powerful example that can inspire others to follow.
I am particularly encouraged by the presence of Ukrainian representatives here today, in the face of the hardship that the Ukrainian people face as a result of the war. Let me therefore reaffirm the EU:s commitment to stand by Ukraine for as long as it takes to win the war, but also to help you rebuild your country and your cities once the war is over. The collaboration between Swedish and Ukrainian cities serves as a testament to the resilience of communities working together for a better and more sustainable future.
Dear friends,
Your climate and environmental actions are not only beneficial for the planet. They are also key drivers of economic competitiveness. For example, local collaborations with businesses are fostering innovation and growth in the clean technology sector.
Swedish cities, with their advanced networks of cooperation, are giving European cleantech a competitive edge on the global stage. And the 112 cities in the EU Mission provides an unparalleled opportunity to scale green solutions. This is crucial in our work to deliver a clean and just transition for Europe.
Today, as some of you sign a new version of your Climate City Contracts, I want to commend your ambition and commitment. These contracts are tangible frameworks for transformative action that inspire others across the EU.
As European Commissioner, I am committed to supporting your efforts, amplifying your successes, and ensuring that the voices of cities remain central in shaping our policies. Together, we can transform not only our cities but our entire continent into a beacon of sustainability, resilience, and innovation.
Thank you for your leadership. Let us continue to work together to build a greener, more resilient Europe for generations to come.
Thank you.
Source – EU Commission