Initiatives from Alsómocsolád (Hungary), ICLEI Member Katowice (Poland), and Loures (Portugal) were announced today as the finalists for the prestigious 2020 Transformative Action Award.

The award recognises “Transformative Actions” that make use of the 15 pathways outlined in the Basque Declaration to achieve the socio-cultural, socio-economic and technological transformation needed to forge a more sustainable society. They highlight the critical role that cities play in reaching global goals such as the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, as well as the Paris Climate Agreement.

"The award honors projects which encourage investment in the sustainable transformation of cities and regions, shaping new forms of governance and creating local value and impact," said Wolfgang Teubner, Regional Director, ICLEI Europe.

This year’s finalists are working on three distinct and impactful initiatives. Alsómocsolád is increasing the quality of life in their village, making it more sustainable and liveable. Their transformative seeks to support and drive the local economy, revitalise sustainable farming, secure local food chains, and increase the energy performance of homes and buildings in the village. The village even created its own local currency - the rigac!

Katowice is using apps and environmental campaigns to increase civic participation and to encourage residents to help make the city more sustainable. One app allows residents to suggest places in the city where new trees should be planted, while another allows residents to identify problems, which they would like the city to address. Problems range from the need for new traffic signs, to maintenance needed to sidewalks.

Loures is improving the quality of water and waterways in their city, by: carrying out water restoration and preservation projects, monitoring water quality, educating residents, connecting waterways, and involving a multitude of stakeholders in their sustainability plan and strategy. As a result of their efforts, 115 756 m2 of water lines were cleaned in 2018, and a further 334 200 m2 were cleaned in 2019.

The final award recipient will be announced at an online award ceremony on 01 October, during the 9th European Conference on Sustainable Cities and Towns:Mannheim2020, and will receive €10,000 to help kick-start an additional Transformative Action in their city.

The award is organised by ICLEI Europe, the Basque Country, and the City of Aalborg (Denmark) and supported by the European Committee of the Regions, and the European Investment Bank.

For more information on the award and finalists, please click here.