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Italian cities leading the journey to climate neutrality
A total of nine Italian cities have been selected to take part in European Commission’s Cities Mission for 100 climate-neutral and smart cities by 2030.
The European Commission will encourage the 100 cities, all from 27 EU member states, to draft Climate City Contracts. They will include a comprehensive strategy for achieving climate neutrality in all sectors, including energy, buildings, waste management, and transportation, as well as corresponding investment plans.
Mayor of Rome Roberto Gualtieri stated on social media: “Thank you to the European Commission for this extraordinary opportunity to transform us into a true laboratory of a proper ecological transition and widespread innovation that improves the quality of life of citizens, creates new job opportunities and reduces social inequalities.”
Alongside the capital Rome, 8 more cities in Italy were also selected for the programme. These are Bergamo, Bologne, Florence, Milan, Padova, Parma, Prato and Turin. Together with Germany, Italy is the second most represented country in the Cities Mission after France, according to the number of cities selected.
Mayor of Turin Stefano Lo Russo stated on social media: ‘’Environmental sustainability is a great challenge, and cities play an important role in building greener communities. This recognition is a source of great pride for Torino and for all its citizens.’’
Mayor of Florence Dario Nardella stated on social media: ‘’Florence among the 100 cities selected by the EU for the Green Deal goal of climate neutrality by 2030. A very ambitious challenge. Forward for a smarter, greener and more inclusive city.’’
The project aims to make the selected cities innovation hubs, eventually allowing all EU cities to become climate-neutral by 2050. In total, 377 European cities applied to be part of the Cities Mission.
Mayor of Padua Sergio Giordani stated on social media: ‘’As the President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen said, we will be among the “pioneers” who set even higher goals, paving the way for a healthier future for all. Padua is and will be there, ecological, green, European. Together.’’ (photo credit: Piro4d/Pixabay)
