Guimarães grows greener: a community in action

As part of the Guimarães 2026 – European Green Capital programme, a series of recent initiatives highlighted the city’s broad commitment to sustainability, climate action and citizen participation. From sport and education to culture and community engagement, these events reflected the diversity of the programme and the important role that different sectors of society can play in building a greener future.

Championing sustainability through sport

Organised by Guimarães 2026 on 14 May, the International Conference on Sustainability in Sport brought together national and international stakeholders to explore how sport can promote environmental sustainability and climate action. Representatives of sports federations, associations and clubs, alongside public institutions and sustainability experts shared knowledge, experiences and best practices. Discussions covered topics such as sustainable event management, environmental responsibility, resource efficiency and community engagement. The presence of Pedro Dias, the Portuguese Secretary of State for Sport, also underlined the growing importance of sustainability within the sports sector.

Youth shaping a greener future

On 15 May, the 2026 Eco Parliament placed young people at the centre of the green transition. In the final session of its eleventh edition, students from school clusters across Guimarães presented environmental projects and proposals, taking part in a direct dialogue with the Mayor of Guimarães, Ricardo Araújo. Jointly promoted by the municipality of Guimarães and the landscape laboratory, the Parliament emphasises how environmental education can inspire active citizenship and help develop informed, engaged and responsible citizens.

Green Week brings the city together

From 4 to 7 June, Green Week Guimarães 2026 brought thousands of people to the city centre for four days dedicated to sustainability, climate action, culture and public participation. This flagship event featured conferences, exhibitions, workshops, environmental awareness activities, artistic performances and concerts, engaging people of all ages in the city’s green transition. During the official opening of Guimarães' Green Week, local, national and international stakeholders came together to discuss how to build more sustainable and resilient communities.

Together, these initiatives illustrate how Guimarães is connecting citizens, schools, institutions and sports organisations around a shared vision for a greener and more inclusive future.