Tampere in running for title of world’s most sustainable city

It has been announced that Tampere is a finalist in an international World Wildlife Fund (WWF) competition that aims to drive down greenhouse gas emissions. A total of 163 cities worldwide took part in the competition. Out of these, 44 cities from 16 countries were shortlisted, including all three Finnish entries. In addition to Tampere, the cities of Espoo and Lahti are also in the final.

Now organised for the fifth time, Earth Hour City Challenge offers cities across the world the opportunity to act as ambassadors in the fight against climate change. Cities play a key role in this, as more than 70 per cent of all greenhouse gas emissions are generated in urban areas. The competition aims to identify the real frontrunners in climate action. The recognition and publicity given to the sustainable solutions the cities have implemented will promote their adoption in other cities across the world.

This is the first time Tampere is taking part in the competition.

- We are delighted that our efforts over many years to tackle climate change have been recognised. We are committed to claiming the title of most sustainable city in the world. I would also like to take this opportunity to challenge all Tampere residents to take part in the We Love Cities competition, Anna-Kaisa Ikonen, Mayor of Tampere, commented.

The winner, chosen by a jury, will be announced in Seoul in April 2015. The WWF Earth Hour City Challenge forms part of the world’s largest climate event, Earth Hour, which this year falls on Saturday 28 March 2015.

We Love Cities competition: cast your vote for Tampere

The Earth Hour City Challenge competition also includes the category of popular favourite. The public can take part by voting and by putting forward suggestions for further actions to the participating cities. To vote and to make a suggestion, visit www.welovecities.org/tampere. On the website, you will discover Tampere and the city’s famous landmark, the Näsinneula Observation Tower. All it takes is one push of a button and your vote will be recorded. You can also make your voice heard via Instagram and Twitter by using the hashtag #welovetampere. The competition will run from 26 January until 28 March 2015.

» ECO2 – Eco-efficient Tampere 2020
» www.welovecities.org/tampere

For additional information, please contact
Elli Kotakorpi
Project Specialist
tel: +358 40 800 7254