15 June 2012: The European Commission has initiated the search for the city that will win the title European Green Capital 2015. The title is awarded to a city that serves as a role model for others by providing environmentally-friendly urban living that is “fit for life.”

The award aims to: recognize cities for achieving high environmental objectives; support commitments to ambitious sustainable development and environmental goals; and inspire other cities. Cities with over 200,000 inhabitants are eligible and will be assessed on the following 12 factors: contribution to climate change; sustainable transport; nature and biodiversity; air quality; noise levels; waste management; water consumption; waste water treatment; eco-innovation and sustainable employment; environmental management of the local authority; and energy performance.

Four cities have held the title thus far, namely: Stockholm, Sweden; Hamburg, Germany; Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; and Nantes, France. Applications for the 2015 award are submitted online at www.europeangreencapital.eu, before 15 October 2012. The 2014 award will be announced on 29 June 2012. [European Commission Press Release]