10 February 2009: On 10 February 2009, during the EU Sustainable Energy Week 2009 (EUSEW 2009), which is taking place from 9-13 February 2009, approximately 400 city mayors signed the “Covenant of Mayors,” in which they committed to reduce their carbon dioxide emissions by over 20% by 2020 through energy efficiency and renewable energy actions.

By signing the Covenant, the mayors committed their cities to adopting sustainable energy action plans within 12 months and achieving a series of targets and obligations. Their progress will be closely monitored by external evaluators and they will be required to submit regular status reports. [European Commission Press Release]