With extensive experience in energy efficiency, renewable energy implementation and guiding the transition towards a fairer and more inclusive energy model, Carlos has been a driving force behind numerous initiatives that are positioning Valencia as a leader in sustainability. His work is instrumental in shaping the city's energy and environmental management future. As Valencia embraces their role as the 2024 European Green Capital, Carlos reflects on his commitment to creating a greener, more sustainable future. In this interview, he shares insights on his career, energy management challenges and the essential role of citizen engagement.
What led you to focus on sustainability and energy management?
I’ve dedicated over three decades to public service, primarily energy management and sustainability. From the start of my career, I was committed to reducing energy consumption, promoting renewable energy use and facilitating the transition to a more equitable and socially inclusive energy model. Managing energy efficiently and combating climate change have always been at the core of my work because these are crucial elements for building a sustainable and resilient society.
What does it mean to you and your organisation that Valencia has been named the European Green Capital for 2024?
It’s a tremendous honour and a reflection of the hard work put in by so many people over the years to make Valencia a model city for sustainability. This recognition is not just an accolade; it signifies our progress in creating a greener and more resilient city. At Fundació València Clima i Energia, we have played a key role in this transformation, developing innovative energy efficiency projects and renewable initiatives that are making a tangible impact on Valencia’s sustainability journey.
What are the main challenges you face in terms of sustainability and energy management?
Our main challenge is to continue advancing the transition to renewable energy and improving energy efficiency in both public and private spaces. This includes addressing outdated infrastructure and ensuring that all citizens benefit from the shift to a cleaner energy model. Climate change exacerbates these challenges with more frequent heatwaves and increased energy demands, so we constantly adapt our strategies to promote efficient and accessible solutions for everyone.
Green spaces are crucial for any city. How do Valencia’s green spaces contribute to sustainability?
We strongly believe in the power of nature-based solutions. Green spaces, such as the Albufera Natural Park and the Huerta Valenciana, are vital to Valencia’s sustainability efforts. The Albufera is a protected area we are working to have recognised as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, which would further strengthen its preservation. The Huerta, recognised as a World Agricultural Heritage site, plays a key role in carbon dioxide absorption and is integral to our climate initiatives. By maintaining and enhancing these spaces, we reduce the city’s carbon footprint and improve citizens’ quality of life.
How do you engage citizens in achieving sustainability goals?
Citizens are at the heart of our efforts to combat climate change. We aim to involve them through educational programmes, incentives for sustainable actions and community-based projects. For example, we offer systems where citizens can earn credits for using public transport or adopting energy-saving practices. This approach fosters a sense of ownership and collective responsibility, motivating everyone to be part of the transition towards a more sustainable Valencia.
Carlos Sánchez Cerveró’s leadership at Fundació València Clima i Energia exemplifies how innovative thinking and collaborative efforts can drive meaningful change. By championing energy efficiency, renewable energy adoption and citizen engagement, Carlos is paving the way for a greener, more resilient future in Valencia. As the city takes on its role as the European Green Capital for 2024, the dedicated work of professionals like Carlos will continue to inspire progress across Europe and beyond.
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Carlos Sánchez Cerveró serves as the chief sustainability officer at Fundació València Clima i Energia, an organisation dedicated to public energy management and combating climate change.