Bristol on short list for European Green Capital Award

Bristol has been chosen as one of the eight cities to be short-listed for the European Green Capital Award. It is the only UK city to receive the distinction. The seven other cities making the short list are Amsterdam, Copenhagen, Freiburg, Hamburg, Munster, Oslo and Stockholm.

The aim of the European Green Capital Award is to encourage cities to become more attractive and healthy locales, and carries a status similar to the European Capital of Culture competition – which also saw Bristol on the short list this year.

Bristol features more than 450 parks and green spaces, which is proportionally more than any other city in the UK. Attractions that visitors can enjoy include Clifton Downs and its sea walls, the Avon river gorge, the regal splendour of Queen Square and stunning views from Cabot Tower Brandon Hill.

It has demonstrated its commitment to sustainable practices, and is home to the UK’s leading charity that promotes organic and sustainable farming, the Soil Association. Sustrans, the charity responsible for developing the National Cycle Network, is also based here.

Bristol’s tourism sector is contributing to the city’s sustainability as well, by participating in the Green Tourism Business Scheme, which is a nationwide scheme aimed at promoting environmental practices in tourism. Visitors are encouraged to do their part to help the environment by choosing accommodation from a list of properties that have achieved the award.

ec.europa.eu