Valencia awarded with EU Mission Label for their plans to reach climate-neutrality by 2030

Valencia is one of the first European cities to receive the Mission Label from the European Union for its commitment to decarbonization, positioning itself at the forefront of the fight against climate change. The title acknowledges the action plan outlined in the city's Climate Agreement, through which it commits to reducing CO2 emissions by 80% and achieving climate neutrality by 2030.

So far, only ten European cities have achieved the Mission label for smart and climate-neutral cities, one of the European Union's Missions under the Horizon Europe program. According to the European Commission, these cities "are paving the way for others to progress more rapidly towards a fair ecological and digital transition and serve as an example of inclusive policy-making at the local level." Another 27 European cities are already following this example and have presented their own city climate contracts.

The Valencia Climate Agreement is the roadmap that dictates the actions to be taken to achieve the decarbonization and ecological transition of the city. It includes local, regional, and national commitments, as well as a Climate Action Plan, a Climate Investment Plan, and the Mission Alliance, a collaboration platform between the public and private sectors in the city.

Urban action is crucial for mitigating climate change as cities account for over 70% of global CO2 emissions and consume more than 65% of the world's energy. 75% of the European population lives in urban areas, and it is estimated that by 2050, 80% of the world's population will reside in cities.

Valencia, European Green Capital

In 2024, Valencia will also hold the title of European Green Capital, another significant recognition of the city's commitment to environmental protection and improving the quality of life for its citizens and visitors. Valencia aspires to become a healthier and more sustainable city, ultimately more desirable to live and work in, through innovation in areas such as pollution and noise reduction, energy efficiency, sustainable mobility, and an expanding offer of natural spaces and the revitalization of public areas.

The Mission Label title bestows EU approval upon Valencia's efforts and will facilitate access to both public and private funding to further advance decarbonization.