Today the German city Essen won the award 'European Green Capital 2017' in Bristol (UK)
Matthias Groote, S&D spokesperson on the environment and former member of the jury of the European green capital award:
"I am proud that Essen has the honour of winning the Green Capital Award, after Hamburg carried the title in 2011.
"Although the city missed out on the prize in previous years, it is thanks to their dedication and determination that Essen has won this well-deserved award.
"The City sets a good example of structural change and high environmental standards in Germany."
Jens Geier, vice-chair of the committee on budget and MEP of the region of North Rhine-Westphalia:
"I am convinced that Essen and the Ruhr area can serve as a laboratory for solutions of modern metropolises. The network of Green Capitals shows how an ambitious environment and climate protection can be successfully implemented on a local level.
"After the award of the European Capital of Culture in 2010, Essen demonstrates for the second time its good performance on the European level. As part of Essen's team in Bristol, I am very happy that I could contribute to this success."
