For the first time since its inception, the Villes et Villages Fleuris has been awarded to a European municipality: Breisach-am-Rhein, in Germany. This first flower, earned as part of its sister-city partnership with Neuf-Brisach (Haut-Rhin), marks an important milestone in the evolution of the label and in the development of European cooperation toward a sustainable living environment.
A first-of-its-kind expansion for the label at the European level
The National Council of Villes et Villages Fleuris CNVVF) has approved the certification application submitted by Alsace Destination Tourisme, in collaboration with the municipalities of Breisach-am-Rhein and Neuf-Brisach. This initiative led to a change in the national regulations governing the certification, which now allow European municipalities that are twinned with a certified French municipality to also qualify for certification following an evaluation.
This development recognizes the commitments made by European local governments to combine ecological transition, resilience, and attractiveness. It also reinforces the label’s role asa tool for support and local cooperation, aimed at promoting the well-being of residents.
An Exemplary Initiative for Certified Sister Cities
The initiative carried out with Breisach-am-Rhein and Neuf-Brisach demonstrates that town twinning can serve as a powerful catalyst for enhancing nature in public spaces and improving the quality of life through collaborative efforts. By earning its first flower, Breisach-am-Rhein is paving the way for other European municipalities engaged in similar partnerships.
The CNVVF hopes that this initiative will encourage other sister cities to join this effort by promoting the exchange of best practices and joint projects focused on ecological transition, quality of life, and regional attractiveness.
