Spain offers many destinations where sustainability, mobility and environmental commitment are pillars of tourism.Below, we show you some of the Spanish cities whose efforts to become a greenerdestination have been recognised.
Valencia. European Green Capital 2024
Valencia's commitment to sustainability saw it awarded the title of European Green Capital 2024. This important recognition follows the efforts made by the city to improve the environment and the quality of lives of its residents and visitors as part of projects aligned with the European Green Deal, the EU's biodiversity strategy for 2030 or the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Valencia has made a pioneering commitment to becoming a climate-neutral and smart city by 2030 and follows a sustainable urban development model that promotes green spaces and sustainable mobility initiatives. What are you waiting for to discover the city and visit emblematic spots including Jardín del Túria, Parc Central or Albufera Nature Reserve?
Vitoria. “Global Green City Award”
In 2019, Vitoria received the Global Green City Award from the organisationGlobal Forum on Human Settlements, backed by the United Nations. The award was given on the strength of the pedestrianisation of its city centre, its green areas, as well as its development plan and air quality. A well-deserved recognition. You can reach the capital of The Basque Country on different bus and train lines for the best start to your sustainable trip. In the city, you can explore the “Green ring”, a series of parks of great ecological and landscape value, linked by eco-recreational corridors. Or take the bike and enter the city's historic centre to discover its medieval side until you reach its most modernist part.
El Hierro. “Responsible Island Prize”
Organised by the European Commission, the 'RESponsible Island' award rewards achievements in terms of renewable energy in European cities.The island of El Hierro placed second in 2020 thanks to its policies on the use of renewable energies, clean mobility and awareness campaigns. Did you know that the entire island is energy self-sufficient? In other words, it produces and stores all the energy it uses, through the combination of a wind system and a hydraulic circuit.Ready to discover the seabed? At Punta de la Restrinja - Mar de las Calmas Marine Reserve is the perfect place for jumping in to clear waters and discovering a wide variety of species. Or take one of the many guided tours on the island, such as the one available at Giant Lizard Recovery Center, where you can learn about all the work being done to conserve this endemic species.
Madrid wines. European Green Capital Award 2022
Madrid's commitment to promoting and preserving urban green spaces has allowed it to hold the title of 'Tree City of the World' between 2019 and 2023. This initiative is organised by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the Arbor Day Foundation. Planting trees is a fundamental action to combat climate change, conserve biodiversity and promote an active and healthy lifestyle among citizens. The capital of Spain meets the five established requirements: it has a structure in place that constantly strives to achieve tree management; it has specific regulations and an updated tree census; it allocates funds and promotes environmental education. Between 2019 and 2023 alone, Madrid has planted 210,000 new trees. Indeed, green spaces occupy a prominent place in the city: the El Retiro park, Casa de Campo, the Valdebebas forest park… are just a few of the city's green spaces that will appeal to you. Visit them all on your bike or rollerblades, and don't forget your helmet!
Pontevedra. UN-Habitat
UN-Habitat is a United Nations programme that promotes socially and ecologically sustainable cities. In 2014, Pontevedra won this award due to its continuous improvement of individual quality of life. More than 75% of the area in this Galician city is for pedestrian use, greatly reducing CO2 emissions. Did you know that the city is also committed to composting? It is already close to composting 15% of the waste it generates. Within the city, you will find several river paths where the banks of the rivers create corners in which to relax and enjoy nature. Or discover all its natural surroundings through the paddle surf routes. And don't forget to try Pontevedra's gastronomy, based on local products.
Barcelona. “Tourism Innovation Awards”
The Tourism Innovation Awards recognise ideas or projects that stand out for their technological innovation and sustainability. In 2021, Barcelona won this award for its project “Barcelona Biosphere Tourism Sustainability Commitment”. This project aims for companies in the tourism sector to incorporate sustainable environmental and social activities, focused on accessibility or gender equality, among other aspects.Move around the city thanks to its extensive network of public transport and cycle lanes, while you discover the greenest side of Barcelona strolling among the thousands of trees that make up its parks and gardens, like theHistorical Botanical Garden or the Martí-Codolar Salesian Residence. Enjoy blue-flag beaches including Bogatell or Sant Seastià, and the most sustainable face of shopping at the hundreds of shops that, generation after generation, have maintained the traditions of yesteryear. Near Barcelona, you can also visit Cornella de Llobregat, winner of the 2019 European Green Leaf Award for its effort to build a more sustainable and livable city through the Cornellà Natura project.
