Council of European Municipalities and Regions

LOCAL INSIGHT
Local and regional governments' view
of European affairs 

The City of Amsterdam joined the Covenant of Mayors in 2009, and has committed to reducing its CO2 emissions by 40% by 2025. Could you tell us more about your city’s long term vision as regards climate and energy?

Amsterdam is a dedicated supporter of the Paris Climate Agreement and integrated sustainability concepts. We consider sustainability as an engine for society and a driver of the economy. Therefore, Amsterdam strives to become entirely fossil-fuel free and independent from coal, oil and gas on the long term. The result will be a creative and varied city, economically and socially strong, with a healthy living environment.

Amsterdam has positioned itself as one of the frontrunners in climate action by taking the bold decision to phase out of natural gas heating by 2050. We have made this decision without clearly knowing how to reach our goal. But if you never start, you’ll never be able to find out what it is the best way to do it!