Urban Spaces Framework in València European Green Capital 2024 - European Green Capital 2024 - València

València drives the transformation of urban spaces for inclusive education

The City Council leads Seminar II: Urban Spaces Framework within the framework of the European Green Capital 2024

From March 3 to 6, 2025, València will host Seminar II: Urban Spaces Framework, an initiative within the European project SECUI (Urban Space Intervention for Social and Educational Transformation). This event, led by the València City Council, brings together experts, institutions, and international organizations to discuss the role of urban spaces in educational inclusion and sustainability.

The Director General of València European Green Capital 2024, Antonio García Celda, inaugurated the event by highlighting the city's role in the ecological transformation of the Mediterranean. "This recognition from the European Commission is not just an award but a responsibility and a firm commitment to sustainability, innovation, and improving our city's quality of life," he stated.

València, a benchmark in sustainability and inclusive education

In recent years, València has promoted pioneering policies in sustainable mobility, urban renaturalization, circular economy, and citizen participation. These initiatives have helped reduce CO₂ emissions, encourage public transport and cycling, reclaim green spaces, and advance the energy transition. "Every square meter we renaturalize, every street we pedestrianize, every school we integrate into the green playground network is an investment in well-being and equity," García Celda emphasized.

The city as an open classroom

The seminar focuses on the importance of integrating nature into education and transforming neighborhoods into spaces for learning and coexistence. "The sustainable city of the future is not built solely with green infrastructure but with committed, educated, and aware people," stated the Director of the European Green Capital.

In this context, the SECUI project takes on special significance by proposing urban space intervention as a key tool for social inclusion. The seminar will analyze best practices, community projects, and participatory strategies that contribute to more accessible and equitable education.

A model for the Mediterranean

València aims to become a reference for other cities seeking to balance growth, well-being, and sustainability. "Our challenge is to continue leading this green and social transformation with a focus on the Mediterranean. To achieve this, we need everyone: governments, the private sector, educational institutions, and, above all, citizens," concluded Antonio García Celda.

The seminar will continue throughout the week with lectures, visits to urban projects, and collaborative working sessions, reinforcing València as a laboratory for urban and social innovation.