A Small Town with Big Ambitions

A Small Town with Big Ambitions

The Greek city of Kozani, with a population of 40,000, located in one of Europe's coal regions, has set an ambitious goal—to become a zero-carbon city by 2030.

On this challenging path, the city is successfully implementing a just transition process through innovative solutions in renewable energy and by maximally engaging the community in the transformation process.  

The driving force behind these changes has been the EcoZani project, designed to reduce coal dependency and facilitate the transition to more sustainable technologies. The project actively involves the community in decision-making and ensures access to information about energy transformation. Various educational programs have also been launched, including training local workers for employment in renewable energy sectors.  

New "green" jobs are regularly being created in the city, and air quality is improving. Dependency on coal decreases each year, with new solar power plants being built and infrastructure for renewable energy being developed. Supporting local entrepreneurs and investing in small businesses have become vital parts of the project, fostering the growth of local economies after the downsizing of coal industries.  

What is particularly impressive is how the city manages to combine centuries-old traditions with the needs and challenges of modern times. The tradition of celebrating the grand Kozani Carnival has been alive for hundreds of years and attracts a large number of visitors from around the world. Sustainable development, climate change, and environmental awareness have now been incorporated into the festival's program.  

This major festival, a long-standing hallmark of the city, is also transforming into a platform for spreading information about the importance of combating climate change, with the aim of becoming the first major zero-emission event in Europe.