Velenje champions sustainability with a summer of green events

From June to September, the city came alive with activities aimed at fostering a green future, especially among the youth. 

One of the key highlights was the 5th Annual Political Dialogue of Coal Regions in Transition, held from 11 to 12 July. Organised by the European Commission, this event gathered high-level political figures and stakeholders to discuss the shift from coal to sustainable energy.  

The event featured prominent figures in the energy transition, including Maroš Šefčovič, Executive Vice-President of the European Commission, and Aleksander Jevšek, Slovenia's Minister for Cohesion and Regional Development. Discussions covered topics such as industrial transformation in coal regions, energy poverty, citizen participation, and district heating. Participants also visited key sites impacted by the transition, including the Šoštanj thermal power plant, a district heating system, a coal mining museum, Stara vas industrial park, and revitalised areas like Lake Velenje and VISTA Park. 

In its ongoing effort to educate younger generations, Velenje marked the 15th anniversary of the ‘Green Backpack’ program, an initiative that teaches preschool children about environmental stewardship through creative tasks. The programme's mascot, Jurček, plays a central role in making sustainability engaging for the children. The city also distributed notebooks filled with eco-friendly tips and messages to primary and secondary school students, giving their academic year an eco-conscious start. 

 Additionally, a new exhibition installed in front of the Velenje post office encourages residents to adopt sustainable practices in their daily lives. Velenje also hosted the popular Pippi Longstocking Festival, which centred on waste reduction and environmental care with the theme of becoming eco-superheroes. 

Looking ahead, the city will continue its green journey by installing secure bike racks around Velenje Lake. Furthermore, on 30 September, the international conference ‘Pozdravljena prihodnost – Welcome Future’ took place, focusing on sustainable urban development. The conference featured keynote speaker Dr Janez Potočnik, former European Commissioner for Environment. 

Sustainable event initiatives 

Velenje is committed to the belief that sustainable events play a crucial role in reducing the environmental impact while driving positive social change. To support this vision, the city has introduced local "Guidelines for Velenje Green Events." These guidelines help organisers plan and execute eco-friendly events, from catering services and educational programmes to fairs and business meetings, ensuring an enjoyable and sustainable experience for all participants. 

A key initiative is the integration of sustainability requirements and recommendations into public tenders, particularly in the fields of culture, tourism, and the Mayor's grant. This approach encourages sustainable practices across various sectors.  

Velenje has also implemented reusable cups, featuring the Green Leaf logo, which have helped cut event-related waste by over 60%. These cups not only reduce waste but also serve as an effective marketing tool, enhancing both the cleanliness and appeal of event spaces. 

For larger events, the city has established green information points at recycling stations, staffed by trained green advisors—students and retirees—who assist visitors in waste sorting and promote sustainable habits. This approachable yet impactful method is transforming the environmental practices of both residents and visitors, fostering a culture of sustainability throughout the community.