Model Municipalities

Mayor Gazmend Muhaxheri (2nd from right) with NGO partners from Environmentally Responsible Action (ERA) group and EuroNatur. © Fatlum Hasani

Municipalities play a vital role in bringing the vision of the European Green Belt to life. Each year, the European Green Belt Association celebrates this dedication by honoring outstanding communities with the title “Model Municipality of the European Green Belt.” This distinction recognizes local governments that show exceptional commitment to protecting, promoting, and sustainably developing the European Green Belt, based on clearly defined selection criteria.

Only one municipality per region—Fennoscandia, the Baltics, Central Europe, and the Balkans—can receive the award each year. Regional Coordinators may either nominate remarkable municipalities themselves or consider proposals submitted to them. After reviewing all suggestions against the established criteria, the Regional Coordinator notifies the Association’s Board of the recommended award recipient. Once approved by the Board, the Coordinator carries out the official awarding process.

While the award brings no financial support, it offers something equally valuable: recognition across Europe for leadership, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to the European Green Belt.

Since its launch, the award has highlighted inspiring success stories:

2023: Stregna, Italy
2021: Kukës, Albania
2019: Kochani, North Macedonia
2018: Peja, Kosovo
2017: Leopoldschlag, Austria
2015: Haidmühle, Germany