Brussels, The European Commission has announced the winners of the 2027 European Green Cities Awards, celebrating urban excellence in climate action, biodiversity, and sustainable living.

• Valencia, Spain was named European Green Capital 2027, recognized for its ambitious climate neutrality goals, green mobility infrastructure, and citizen-led environmental initiatives.
• Vilnius, Lithuania earned the title of European Green Leaf 2027, awarded to smaller cities demonstrating outstanding commitment to ecological innovation and inclusive green policies.

The awards honor cities that lead by example in implementing the European Green Deal, promoting clean energy, circular economies, and resilient urban planning. Both cities impressed the jury with their data-driven strategies, community engagement, and measurable impact on air quality, waste reduction, and nature-based solutions.

Commissioner for Environment Virginijus Sinkevičius praised the winners for “turning sustainability into everyday reality,” and encouraged other cities to follow suit as Europe races toward its 2030 climate targets.