Sustainable Municipality – A Green Future. Together for the Climate!
Overview:
Country and municipality: Poland, Municipality of Pałecznica and Municipality of Raciechowice
Date: 17th of February, 2025
Theme/Focus: Tools developed under the CommitClimate project and various climate-related policies and actions
Participants: Representatives of the Association of Municipalities Polish Network “Energie Cités” (PNEC), municipal officials from Pałecznica and Raciechowice, and residents form both municipalities interested in climate and environmental protection topics
Brief description: On February 17, 2025, the Association of Municipalities Polish Network “Energie Cités” in collaboration with the Municipality of Pałecznica and the Municipality of Raciechowice, organised an online workshop for citizens of both municipalities. The workshop focused on tools being developed under the CommitClimate project and various climate-related policies and actions. The aim of the meeting was to engage local communities in climate action, exchange experiences, and present practical tools supporting environmental protection. The event, which took place on the Zoom platform, was attended by 44 participants.
Key results and takeaways:
- The workshop introduced the CommitClimate project and emphasized the benefits of community engagement in climate action.
- Representatives from Raciechowice Municipality presented their climate initiatives, including wastewater treatment, green public procurement, citizen education, RES implementation, waste management, and the “Clean Air” program.
- Pałecznica Municipality showcased their Intelligent Energy Management Centre, zero-emission fleet, existing RES installations, and initiatives supporting residents in transitioning to clean energy.
- An individual carbon footprint calculator was demonstrated, helping residents measure and reduce their environmental impact.
- The CommitClimate CO₂ Simulator was introduced, enabling the analysis of various scenarios for reducing greenhouse gas emissions in municipalities.
- An interactive summary session was conducted, where participants discussed climate actions, challenges, and ways to enhance resident engagement.
- The workshop fostered an exchange of experiences and ideas on climate-positive actions, providing practical knowledge about environmental protection tools.
- The event emphasized the critical role of collaboration between municipalities and citizens in achieving sustainable development and climate neutrality.
Photos:
Downloads/Resources:
- Benefits of engaging local communities in climate action and brief introduction to the project [available in Polish]
- Climate initiatives and long-term strategy for climate neutrality in the Municipality of Raciechowice [available in Polish]
- Local climate actions and resident support mechanisms in the Municipality of Pałecznica [available in Polish]
How to organize a similar workshop:
Organize an online workshop using platforms such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Google Meet, or Webex, involving municipal representatives, experts, and interested residents. The agenda should include presentations on local climate initiatives, tools supporting climate action (e.g., carbon footprint calculators, CO₂ emission simulators), and interactive summary sessions to encourage engagement and feedback
How to engage local citizens:
Highlight the value of involving local communities in climate action by showcasing tangible initiatives and user-friendly tools like the carbon footprint calculator. Foster discussion and reflection on shared responsibilities, potential barriers, and opportunities for joint action.
Lessons learned from our experience:
Online workshops are an effective way to reach a wide audience. The involvement of experts and municipal representatives who share their experiences is essential. Practical demonstrations of tools, such as the CO2 simulator, help raise awareness and motivate participants to take action. Discussions and interactive summary sessions foster the exchange of ideas and contribute to a deeper understanding of both challenges and potential solutions.
Feedback and Contact:
Would you like to run a similar workshop in your city? Contact us – we’d love to share our experience!
E-mail: [email protected]
Phone number: +48 124291793