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Vaasa – A Green Leaf City

Vaasa is a European Green Leaf City for 2026. The award, granted by the European Commission, is given to cities that promote sustainable development and are committed to advancing environmental and climate action. Our ambitious goal is to achieve carbon neutrality during the 2020s.

Impactful climate action, together

During our Green Leaf year, we will take climate and environmental action, showcase Vaasa’s expertise, and encourage residents, businesses, communities and universities to get involved. The theme of our Green Leaf year is: Making a Difference Makes Us Happy in Vaasa.

Visibility and appeal

We showcase world-class energy expertise and everyday sustainable solutions that attract new residents, visitors and businesses.

Community and participation

We bring together residents, employees, universities and businesses. Working together gives us visibility and impact.

Small and large actions alike

A climate action can be organising or attending events, planting trees, recycling or making green choices every day.

Vaasa’s success factors

Vaasa’s European Green Leaf 2026 recognition is based on concrete actions for the climate and the environment. Our success is built on a number of key strengths:

  • Ambitious carbon neutrality target
  • The leading energy technology cluster in the Nordics
  • Innovative and sustainable solutions
  • Respect for nature and the circular economy
  • Collaboration and resident participation
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A prestigious environmental award

Vaasa was nominated a European Green Leaf city for 2026 as the third Finnish city. Previous recipients in Finland include Lahti (European Green Capital 2021) and Lappeenranta (Green Leaf 2021).

Learn more
Nuori

Eco Bonus for climate action

Associations and resident communities operating in Vaasa can apply for an Eco Bonus of approximately €100–1,000 to support an event, initiative or action that aligns with the theme of the Green Leaf year.

How to apply for the Eco Bonus

Our journey to becoming the Green Leaf 2026 winner

  1. 1970s

    The first bicycle paths are built, and the efforts to promote cycling and walking start.

  2. 2001

    EnergyVaasa, the Nordic region’s largest energy cluster, is established.

  3. 2006

    The first steps towards developing the energy education pathway are taken.

  4. 2016

    The first energy and climate programme is drawn up, and the first target for achieving carbon neutrality is set.

  5. 2017

    The first biogas buses for public transport are introduced.

  6. 2020

    Finland’s largest thermal energy storage facility begins operations in Vaskiluoto, Vaasa.

  7. 2021

    Aurora Botnia, the world’s greenest ship, begins operating between Vaasa and Umeå.

  8. 2023

    The new heat pump facility in Pått is completed, helping to reduce both energy consumption and emissions.

  9. 2026

    The Green Leaf year is characterised by togetherness, events, and meaningful environmental and climate action. Come and join us!

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