How Europe’s towns and regions are turning global sustainability goals into everyday reality
Since the adoption of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, it has become increasingly clear that towns and regions are at the forefront of making the global goals a reality. Local and regional governments are responsible for many of the services that directly affect citizens’ lives, education, housing, transport, waste management, and health. Their actions, often taken without reference to international frameworks, already contribute to creating more sustainable communities.
The Council of European Municipalities and Regions (CEMR) and PLATFORMA highlight the central role of local governments not just as service providers but also as policy shapers, awareness raisers, and partnership builders. By engaging citizens and other stakeholders, municipalities are uniquely placed to embed sustainability principles in everyday governance.
To support and strengthen this work, four clear recommendations emerge:
- Increase participation – raise awareness among citizens and encourage greater involvement in sustainability initiatives.
- Ensure coherence – integrate local governments into national strategies to avoid fragmented approaches.
- Build capacity – provide technical tools and knowledge so municipalities can implement goals effectively.
- Support partnerships – back international cooperation and exchange between towns and regions to reinforce solidarity.
Progress is visible, but challenges remain: insufficient resources, difficulties in collecting local data, and the need for stronger national frameworks. Despite these obstacles, municipalities are proving to be powerful drivers of sustainable change. From inclusive policies to decentralised cooperation, they are demonstrating that building a sustainable future must begin at the local level.
The global goals are not about imposing new tasks on towns and regions, but about offering a common framework and shared language. Europe’s municipalities are showing that sustainability is not abstract: it is local, practical, and essential for the well-being of communities today and tomorrow.
For more information, contact:
Senior Advisor – Global Agendas, SDGs & Climate
