Lappeenranta, Gabrovo share Green Leaf Award

The Finnish City of Lappeenranta and the Bulgarian City of Gabrovo have jointly won the 2021 European Green Leaf Award instituted by the European Commission (EC), said the City of Lappeenranta in a press release.

The EC organises the award for the cities or towns with a population of 20,000 to 100,000 in the EU member states.

With a population of just over 72,000, Lappeenranta City authorities have aimed to profile the city as an environmentally-conscious community with green values.

According to the jury, Lappeenranta has emphasised its commitment to developing climate actions with a view to reach the goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2030.

“This is an important sign to us that we have done the right thing. We, however, must continue with our efforts to mitigate climate change more effectively together with the residents, businesses and the LUT University,” said Lappeenranta City Environmental Director Ilkka Räsänen.

In addition to recognition, the award includes a prize money of 75,000 euros.

Lappeenranta City Mayor Kimmo Jarva said the prize money will be used in new energy and climate and biodiversity initiatives.

"[The] year 2021 will include a wide range of local events, restoration projects in natural sites and a display panel presenting water-related topics at the Lappeenranta Harbour. We will also be organising international webinars and a few international conferences. This gives a boost to our goal of becoming a national and international green ambassador. This award enables and promotes the accomplishment of environment friendly actions now and in the future,” said Jarva.