城市开始绿色复苏

CIDOB Opinion 673 from June 2021 discusses the exclusion of local governments in the creation of National Recovery and Resilience Plans (NRRPs) submitted by EU Member States to the European Commission for funding through the Next Generation EU (NGEU) stimulus fund. This oversight is seen as a missed opportunity to integrate a green recovery approach since local governments are crucial in addressing the significant environmental challenges within urban areas.

The report highlights that while the European Green Deal places a strong emphasis on local-level action, the European Commission failed to ensure consistent consultation with cities. Consultations conducted by Eurocities and a joint study by the European Committee of the Regions and the Council of European Municipalities showed that in the majority of countries, cities and other sub-national authorities had minimal involvement in designing the NRRPs or were excluded altogether. Despite actively seeking engagement, these local authorities were largely left out of the planning process.

The situation is particularly concerning in Italy, where large cities are obvious partners in supporting national authorities in implementing EU funds from the European Urban Agenda for cohesion policies. Italy, receiving the largest amount of recovery funds (€210 billion), faces pressure to increase its spending capacities, and substantial involvement of local governments could significantly enhance this process.

The report argues that the European Union needs to rectify this oversight in the implementation phase of the NRRPs. It underscores the importance of unlocking local ambition through the shift towards a circular and low-carbon economy, which will receive substantial funding from NGEU funds (37% allocated for climate-related expenditure). Properly channeled investments could empower local authorities to address sustainability challenges and realize their climate ambitions.

To ensure effective implementation, the Commission must guarantee active engagement of cities in the Recovery and Resilience Facility's flagship projects aimed at fostering the twin green and digital transitions. Cities, as climate leaders and hubs of the digital economy, are essential for aligning these agendas sustainably and fairly, and they have shown interest in cross-border collaboration for European resilience.

In conclusion, the successful implementation of recovery plans hinges on the inclusion of local governments, especially considering the pivotal role cities play in environmental and economic recovery. The European Commission must prioritize city involvement to ensure a "green recovery" and fulfill President von der Leyen's promise.