Honouring their recognition as the 2026 European Green Leaf, the people of Finland’s Vaasa have rolled out a range of measures to improve environmental sustainability and mobility.
Working at the intersection of these sectors, officials and citizens are ensuring these steps help protect the climate and environment while remaining accessible.
One such move in line with residents’ demands is the installation of bicycle stands at various points in the city, allowing cyclists to make repairs and adjustments on the go without needing to detour. Citizens can easily place their bikes on the stand for maintenance, and the stands are free. This measure also aims to reduce carbon emissions and improve air quality by encouraging more people to cycle.
Cyclists also have more reason to cheer now: new shared e-bikes for employees part of the city administration help ease last-mile mobility and simplify their commute.
A key part of environmental sustainability is reducing noise pollution. By introducing two electric, battery-powered lawnmowers in Vaasa, the city is reducing toxic pollutants and noise emissions at the same time.
To encourage residents to embrace sustainability further, the city held a workshop on September 2, where participants brainstormed on how to improve walking, cycling, and other forms of eco-friendly mobility. Enthusiastic winter walkers also have an incentive until 20 September to sign up and report on winter maintenance on walking and biking routes, with gift vouchers available.
On 21st August, sustainability got a royal touch when Crown Princess Victoria and Prince Daniel of Sweden visited the city and learned about developments in carbon-neutral shipping and energy production.
Furthermore, in line with the city’s spirit of honouring sustainability, the Vaasa Future Festival, held a few weeks ago, saw visitors and participants pledge their commitment to a more sustainable, inclusive future. Companies also committed to working at the crossroads of sustainability and business.
Vaasa’s European Green Leaf Year initiative is also using inclusive budgeting to fund actions that advance environmental sustainability and improve residents’ quality of life.
Little ones also had their share of fun when around 150 children and 50 adults at the Punahilkka Daycare embraced the national Baltic Sea Day in Suvilahti. It was part of an initiative to build their love for nature and the sea.
Baltic Sea Day could not be complete without celebrating the 5-year anniversary of the Aurora Botnia, one of the world’s most sustainable transportation ferries.
The city of Vaasa also honoured the European Green Leaf award through art, with around 200 residents and government figures making a shared artwork.
