When you think of Essen, what comes to mind? Coal mines? Dirty air? Kohlenpott (the Ruhr District)? And what would you associate with the greenest city of NRW and 376 kilometres of bicycle paths? Cologne, Düsseldorf or Münster? 

Not even close—we’re talking about Essen. A city with over half a million residents, and whose transformation from a coal and steel town to the greenest city in North Rhine-Westphalia is a model for many European cities during a time of structural transformation. Urban green spaces, nature and biodiversity, air quality, and water management—these are only four topic areas in which Essen takes an active role in environmental issues.

 

A European city that has verifiably achieved high environmental standards and constantly pursues ambitious goals for the further improvement of environmental protection and sustainable development is given the title “The Green Capital of Europe”. Essen was the first city associated with the coal and steel industry to win the title of “Green Capital” in the title’s history. Curious? Then visit the website of the “Green Capital of Europe”. We look forward to seeing you here in Essen!