Cedos think tank is actively working on local development, including research on the problems associated with the impact of climate change on cities. In particular, in 2020, we conducted a study “Climate (in)justice: the impact of climate change on vulnerable social groups in Ukrainian cities” in which we prepared recommendations for city administrations and NGOs on how to improve the situation. These include how to build urban governance and policy on the principles of sustainability, mitigate the hromada’s impact on the climate, adapt spaces and people’s lives to climate change, and most importantly, overcome social inequality and restore climate justice both in the cities and in the whole country.

Cedos, as one of the partner organizations of the SUN4Ukraine consortium, encourages Ukrainian municipalities to participate in the call. The SUN4Ukraine project ( Sustainable Urban Net Zero Network for Ukraine) supports Ukrainian cities in aligning their recovery plans with ambitious climate neutrality goals. As part of the EU Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities Mission, SUN4Ukraine offers a unique opportunity for municipalities to become leaders in sustainable urban development, contributing to Ukraine’s broader commitment to climate action.

SUN4Ukraine offers two distinct pathways for involvement:

  • Flagship Municipalities: Ukrainian cities are invited to express interest in becoming one of the 10 Flagship Municipalities selected by SUN4Ukraine for the initial phase of the project. These municipalities will receive tailored expert support, participate in a comprehensive capacity-building programme, and be paired with EU Mission Cities for valuable knowledge exchanges. As pioneers, these Flagship Municipalities will work towards achieving climate neutrality by 2050 at the latest and will set an example for other Ukrainian cities to follow.
  • Capacity building and knowledge sharing: Other municipalities are welcome to join SUN4Ukraine at a later stage when they can gain access to capacity-building resources, peer-to-peer exchanges with other Ukrainian and European cities, and tailored support to help them achieve their climate goals.

As part of the call process, we invite all interested Ukrainian municipalities to fill in a questionnaire. This will allow cities not only to share their specific needs and challenges in climate action, but also to indicate their preferred pathway for involvement. The collected responses will help us better understand their unique circumstances and tailor our capacity-building programme and expert support to effectively help cities on their path to climate neutrality.

Why join SUN4Ukraine?

By joining SUN4Ukraine, Ukrainian municipalities will gain access to expert guidance, capacity-building opportunities, and strategic EU Cities Mission partnerships that will enhance their ability to lead in climate-neutral recovery planning. Their participation will drive meaningful urban transformation and inspire other cities to follow.

Get involved

Whether your city aims to be a flagship leader or to join the climate neutrality journey later, your participation is crucial in shaping a sustainable future for Ukraine. Express your interest in joining SUN4Ukraine by following these steps:

Selected cities will be announced by the end of November 2024.

About the SUN4Ukraine

Launched in May 2024 under Horizon Europe, Sustainable Urban Net Zero Network for Ukraine (SUN4Ukraine) is a four-year project focused on supporting Ukrainian cities in their pursuit of climate neutrality. In the wake of the severe disruptions caused by Russia’s war of aggression, this project focuses on systemic and efficient recovery, aligning with climate objectives and involving citizens and stakeholders to reach Ukraine’s climate objectives. Ecoaction is a member of SUN4Ukraine network.