Glasgow amongst 100 climate-neutral and smart cities by 2030
Glasgow is amongst twelve non-European Union cities, including Sarajevo and Istanbul, selected as participants in the European Commission's 100 Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities scheme, the so-called Cities Mission.
The 100 selected cities are now being invited to develop Climate City Contracts, which will include an overall plan for climate neutrality across all sectors such as energy, buildings, waste management and transport, together with related investment plans.
The Cities Mission will receive €360 million of Horizon Europe funding covering the period 2022-23, to start the innovation paths towards climate neutrality by 2030.
Other benefits for cities include tailor-made advice and assistance from a dedicated Mission Platform run by Net Zero Cities, additional funding and financing opportunities and the possibility to join large innovation actions and pilot projects.
Glasgow’s plans include the creation of a Climate Neutral District within the Glasgow City Innovation District based in the east of the city centre, around Merchant City and the High Street, the original birthplace of Glasgow.
The Climate Neutral district’s streets will act as climate and energy corridors that will help the local community to benefit from low carbon heat, power, improved transport, cycling and walking options which will all help provide space for people to move safely and more easily.
The project will improve air quality in the centre of Glasgow, whilst a focus on greening the space and nature being allowed to flourish is part of the initiative.
The creation of the Climate Neutral District within Glasgow City Innovation District is a collaboration between the University of Strathclyde and Glasgow City Council, with significant input from Scottish Enterprise, Scottish Water Horizons, Zero Waste Scotland, Scottish Power Energy Networks, Local Energy Scotland, Clyde Gateway, Climate Ready Clyde, Sustrans, Wheatley Group, SALIX and NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde.
