Europe is now an essentially urban society, with four out of five Europeans living in towns and cities. Most of the environmental challenges facing our society originate from urban areas, but it is also these urban areas that bring together the commitment and innovation needed to resolve them.

Starting in 2010, one European city will be selected each year as the European Green Capital of the year. The award is given to a city that:

• Has a consistent record of achieving high environmental standards


• Is committed to ongoing and ambitious goals for further environmental improvement and sustainable development


• Can act as a role model to inspire other cities and promote best practices to all other European cities

This video gives an introduction to Bristol (UK). Nominated as a finalist for 2010 and 2011, the city has benefitted extensively from the attention that it has gained as a result of this success. It has now been labelled the 'UK's Greenest City', and as a result its people are proud, its hotels are fuller than before and innovative industries are flocking to the area.

Cities are at the heart of Europe's society and economy. As the European Green Capital Award takes off, the continent’s cleanest and most environmentally committed cities now have the chance to shine and gain the recognition that their efforts deserve.

To find out more about this award, please visit the 'Weblinks' below.