The Hague Earns EU Recognition for Climate Neutrality Efforts
The Hague, Friday, 18 October 2024.
The Hague becomes the first Dutch city to receive the EU Mission Label, joining 19 other European cities in the pursuit of climate neutrality. This accolade, part of the Horizon Europe initiative, opens doors to significant funding and collaboration opportunities, positioning The Hague as a potential innovator in sustainable urban development.
Pioneering Climate Neutrality
The EU Mission Label awarded to The Hague signifies a crucial milestone in the city’s journey towards climate neutrality. As part of the Horizon Europe framework, this recognition not only highlights The Hague’s commitment to sustainable urban development but also places it among the forefront of European cities striving for environmental change. The accolade comes as part of the EU Mission for Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities, which aims to support 100 cities across Europe in achieving climate neutrality by 2030[1].
Access to Funding and Resources
Receiving the EU Mission Label enables The Hague to access the Climate City Capital Hub, a significant step in mobilizing both public and private investments for sustainable city projects. This hub, alongside a €2 billion lending envelope from the European Investment Bank, provides cities like The Hague with the financial support needed to implement innovative climate solutions[2]. The funding is crucial for initiating projects that can lead to significant reductions in CO₂ emissions, which are responsible for over 70% of global energy consumption[3].
Role as an Innovation Hub
In addition to financial benefits, The Hague’s new status as a label-holder positions it as an innovation hub within Europe. This role involves sharing knowledge and best practices with other cities, fostering collaborative environments that drive sustainable urban transformations. The city will engage in the Twinning Learning Programme, a 20-month initiative designed to facilitate knowledge exchange and collaboration among cities facing similar environmental challenges[4]. This program is integral in achieving the overarching goal of climate neutrality by 2030.
The Bigger Picture
The Hague’s recognition is part of a broader EU strategy to combat climate change through the Horizon Europe initiative. With a total of 53 cities now holding the EU Mission Label, the initiative is well on its way to meeting its target. Cities are developing Climate City Contracts (CCCs) as part of their governance strategy to guide climate neutrality efforts, marking a significant step forward in the EU’s ambition to create smart, sustainable urban environments[5].