European Green Leaf Award

The European Commission grants the recognition annually to cities with fewer than 100,000 inhabitants for their pioneering efforts in climate and environmental action. Winning the Green Leaf award was a recognition of Vaasa’s long-term commitment to the environment, and a strong indication that we are on the right track.

The Green Leaf prize sum of €200,000 will be used to increase visibility, organise events, and support environmental and climate action involving residents, businesses, communities and universities.

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:

1. Ambitious carbon neutrality target
   The City of Vaasa is committed to achieving carbon neutrality during the 2020s – one of the most ambitious targets in Finland. Emissions will be reduced by at least 80% from 1990 levels, and the remaining emissions will be offset. Achieving the target requires collaboration between the city, residents, businesses, universities and communities.
2. The leading energy technology cluster in the Nordics
   Vaasa is a leading exporter of energy technology: the region is home to over 180 energy companies, many of which are global market leaders. The EnergyVaasa cluster employs 13,000 experts and accounts for 30% of Finland’s total energy technology exports. The Vaasa region holds the highest number of green patents in the Nordic countries.
3. Innovative and sustainable solutions
   Vaasa’s ecosystem brings together businesses, research, digitalisation and the green transition. Examples:
   – Aurora Botnia: the world’s most environmentally friendly ferry and the first Green Shipping Corridor in the Baltic Sea
   – Energy Education Pathway: a unique learning model from early childhood to higher education
   – Biogas buses: over 75% of public transport runs on renewable biogas produced from organic household waste
   – Finland’s largest thermal energy storage (TES) facility enables the efficient use of renewable energy and carbon-neutral district heating within this decade.
4. Respect for nature and the circular economy
   Vaasa is investing in clean water, healthy ecosystems and the circular economy. The city applies the Green Factor and 3–30–300 principles in urban planning, and the unique nature of the Kvarken Archipelago is part of UNESCO’s World Heritage.
5. Collaboration and resident participation
   Vaasa’s success is based on close collaboration between the city, residents, businesses and higher education institutions. The Green Leaf year is a great opportunity to inspire more people to get involved and to make the principles of sustainable development visible in everyday actions.

For us, the Green Leaf year is a chance to tell our story, share our knowledge, and set an example for others. Making a Difference Makes Us Happy in Vaasa!