With a dense urban landscape and approximately 90 000 residents, the city faces air quality and biodiversity conservation challenges. However, as demonstrated in its application for the European Green Leaf Award, Cornellà is actively working to enhance the quality of life for its citizens.
The city has set ambitious goals to integrate nature into its highly urbanised environment. Through its Cornellà Nature Project (2016-2026), the municipality is focused on improving existing green spaces and establishing green corridors to better connect natural areas across the city. Cornellà is also working closely with residents to ensure every citizen has access to over 15 m² of green space by 2025, fostering a healthier and more sustainable living environment.
To tackle air quality issues, Cornellà has implemented a comprehensive plan that includes promoting sustainable mobility, regulating the efficiency of boilers in municipal buildings and restricting the use of high-emission vehicles within the metropolitan area. The municipality is also addressing noise pollution through various initiatives, including developing a noise action plan, introducing traffic calming measures and public awareness campaigns, such as Stop Noise and Week without Noise, which encourage citizen involvement in creating a quieter, healthier urban space.
Water conservation is another key priority for Cornellà. The city is adopting sustainable practices such as replacing water-intensive grass with drought-resistant plants, harvesting rainwater and reusing greywater from baths, showers and sinks. Educational campaigns and community programs have been introduced to raise awareness about responsible water use. One notable initiative, the ‘We Love Water’ campaign, focused on preventing water pollution and encouraging sustainable water consumption habits among residents.
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For more detailed information on Cornellà de Llobregat’s sustainability initiatives and environmental strategies, you can explore Cornellà de Llobregat’s application and presentation, which highlight the city’s efforts to improve air quality, biodiversity and urban green spaces. The EGLA Technical Assessment Report – Award Cycle 2019 offers an in-depth evaluation of the municipality’s performance across various environmental criteria. To track the city’s progress following its recognition, the Cornellà de Llobregat 1-Year Report provides comprehensive updates on its continued commitment to sustainability.