Yokohama (Japan) – a city that has championed notable environmental initiatives such as the Hama-Wing wind turbine and the Air Cabin gondola - is now turning to Europe to gain inspiration for its next steps in advancing sustainable urban development, on the topic of Circular Economy.

On Thursday, City Representative Kentaro Kanebako and Assistant Saskia Kordatzki visited ICLEI Europe’s office in Freiburg, where they met with Regional Director Wolfgang Teubner and ICLEI’s Circular Economy team to exchange ideas and identify areas for collaboration.

Yokohama has set ambitious goals around resource efficiency and carbon neutrality, and views European experiences as highly valuable in reaching them. During the visit, the delegation explored how initiatives such as the EU Mission for Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities can inspire Japanese efforts, while also learning from ICLEI’s work to connect local governments worldwide. Both sides discussed opportunities to deepen collaboration and share lessons that can accelerate the transition to circularity.

The meeting also highlighted Yokohama’s role in convening global dialogue. In November 2025, the city will host the Asia Smart City Conference, a leading platform for cities, governments, academia, businesses and international organisations to exchange on circular economy and climate-neutral solutions. Looking ahead, Yokohama is also preparing to host the Green Expo 2027, which will further strengthen its position as a hub for sustainability.

By seeking out European insights and fostering international cooperation, Yokohama demonstrates how cities can learn from one another to drive systemic change. ICLEI Europe’s engagement in these exchanges will help ensure that local solutions developed in Europe can inform, and be informed by, global partners working towards the same vision of a circular, climate-neutral future.