Ljubljana is the political, administrative, cultural and economic centre of Slovenia and is home to over 280,000 inhabitants. Ljubljana impressed the Jury by the significant transformation which has been made by the city in sustainability over the previous 10 – 15 years. This transformation has been achieved in areas including local transport and the pedestrianizing of the city centre. From being a city which was previously dominated by car transport the focus is now on public transport and on pedestrian and cycling networks. The most significant measure that has been taken has been the modification of the traffic regime on the main traffic artery (Slovenska Street). Progress has also been made in preserving and protecting the green areas which characterise the city and in the revitalisation and transformation of brownfield spaces. Ljubljana has also demonstrated how they have progressed in terms of the treatment of waste and waste water. They have committed themselves to pursuing a zero waste objective. In addition to this the Jury recognised the example Ljubljana has shown by sharing its experiences and solutions in managing natural disasters. This was demonstrated in recent times by its work with the Balkan Region during the recent flooding crisis.
