Why are we running this project?

Many local initiatives are already experimenting with ideas that integrate urban sustainability and justice. It is important to support and learn from them so that we can build more resilient, equitable cities. We know that there is a higher potential for successful transformative change when we do not reinvent the wheel but we tap into these existing communities.

What are our goals?

By sharing knowledge and resources and weaving a community of individuals and groups that share a common passion, we will strengthen the narratives of transformative change towards sustainable and just cities. 

How does the project work?

A Community Conversation in January 2022 kicked off the project and collected input on the nature of future project activities. Initiatives will be selected in an open call, experiments shall run from Spring 2022 to Spring 2023. A Peer-learning framework will be a place for the experiment members and a few general Community members to exchange and connect on themes such as community engagement, intersectionality or conflict resolution. Also, five additional online Community Conversations will be open to all Community members throughout the project. Additionally, at the end of the project, two expert organisations on transitions and urban justice (DRIFT and Barcelona Lab for Urban Environmental Justice and Sustainability) will draw lessons from action in the project back to theory. 

Who are the target groups?

Any individual or group that is passionate about the topic is encouraged to join the Community. This will allow them to learn and connect with each other. Funded experiments, specifically, are those that are existing already, not profit motivated, action-oriented and linked to the theme of sustainable and just cities. 

Where is the project run?

In Europe.

Who organizes and supports the project?

ICLEI Europe is the project organizer and implementer. ICLEI - Local Governments for Sustainability is a global network of more than 2500 local and regional governments committed to sustainable urban development. Active in 125+ countries, ICLEI influences sustainability policy and drive local action for low emission, nature-based, equitable, resilient and circular development.  The Robert Bosch Stiftung is founding partner of ICLEI.