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Prague has been named European Forest City for 2025, a title it previously held in 2021. This prestigious recognition is based on the city's efforts to promote environmental awareness, expand green spaces, and support activities related to forestry and nature preservation.
The announcement was made on Friday as Prague Mayor Bohuslav Svoboda accepted the award from Robert Mavsar, Director of the European Forest Institute (EFI). As part of this honor, Prague will also host the annual EFI conference in 2025, where experts from various fields will gather to discuss the future of forestry in urban environments.
"Receiving the title of European Forest City for 2025 is a great honor for Prague and a confirmation of our long-term efforts for the sustainable development of the city, in which greenery and landscape care play a crucial role," Svoboda said through a press release.
Prague's commitment to sustainability
Svoboda highlighted the importance of green spaces in Prague, noting that the city’s forests, parks, and gardens are vital to both recreation and the local ecosystem. The city's green initiatives are aimed at improving the quality of life for both residents and visitors.
Prague is one of the greenest cities in Europe, with around 4,900 hectares of forested land, which makes up about 10 percent of the city’s total area. Nearly 3,000 hectares of these forests are managed by the city-owned company Lesy hlavního města Prahy (Forests of the City of Prague).
These areas are home to numerous species of flora and fauna, including many protected species. Additionally, the city’s parks, such as Stromovka and Kinský Garden, provide essential spaces for urban recreation and relaxation.
"We will strive to make the public even more aware of the importance of forests and urban nature for the quality of life of all of us during the year in which Prague holds this title," Svoboda added.
Green spaces as part of climate resilience
In addition to its ecological importance, Prague's green spaces play a significant role in the city’s climate adaptation efforts. The city's Climate Plan includes ambitious goals for increasing forest and green space coverage, which is essential for improving climate resilience.
By integrating nature-based solutions into urban planning, Prague is setting an example for how cities can combat climate change while enhancing the well-being of their populations.
"Prague’s focus on urban forests and green infrastructure is a model for how cities can proactively address climate change challenges and improve the quality of life for their citizens." EFI Director Robert Mavsar noted, praising Prague’s ongoing commitment to sustainable forestry practices.
This year’s EFI conference will focus on the growing challenges facing European forests, particularly the increasing disruption of forest ecosystems, and strategies to mitigate these impacts. It will take place in Prague from Sept. 17-19.
