Sustainable urban transitions are a complex and ever-changing endeavour. Heat waves and flooding, pollution, waste management, loss of green space – all likely worsened by climate change – are just a few of many factors that can complicate sustainable transitions. In recognition of this complexity, cities are invited to complete a European Environment Agency (EEA) survey, devised to better understand what enables and/or hinders environmental sustainability transitions in European cities, and how these factors may have changed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Work on such complex environmental challenges is supported by the EAA’s European Topic Centres (ETCs), which are a consortium of organisations with expert knowledge in specific topical areas. This particular survey comes from the ETC on Sustainability Transitions (ETC ST), in which ICLEI Europe is a member.

The survey, titled “Urban transitions towards environmental sustainability”, aims to inform experts on what European cities consider to be important drivers of sustainable urban transitions.

A recent EEA assessment, ‘Urban sustainability in Europe – Avenues for change’, reiterates the crucial role that cities play in driving sustainable transitions in the economic, social and environmental spheres. It emphasises that taking an integrated approach that considers sustainability across all of these areas can lead to more inclusive, safe and resilient cities. The report identifies key building blocks for improvements, such as increasing natural spaces, switching to renewables, and improving energy efficiency.

European cities and local authorities are encouraged to contribute their knowledge and experiences related to sustainable urban transitions to inform future EEA work and resources. Contributions to the survey will provide necessary expertise and guidance.

The (extended) deadline to complete the survey on Urban Transitions is 7 February.

To complete and learn more about the survey, click here.