Swedish and Italian municipalities have joined forces through the Sweden Emilia Romagna Network to participate in the ICC as a consortium for the second time.

SERN fully embraces collaboration and peer learning and since January 2023, it has been promoting the Local Green Deal (LGD) to effectively work with local stakeholders and achieve common sustainability goals, using transnational collaboration for innovative implementation of LGD activities. The ICC will further enrich and develop their bilateral efforts.

The participating municipalities – Cervia, Vänersborg, and Trollhättan – share priorities and have agreed to work on a similar LGD structure and process. Cervia, situated along Italy’s eastern coast in Emilia Romagna, values the preservation of its natural landscape and resources. With around 28,700 residents, the city actively engages in local and European initiatives to promote social, environmental, and cultural growth while striving to become a smart city with low-polluting emissions.

Vänersborg, located in Västra Götaland County, Sweden, with a population of nearly 40,000, serves as the County’s seat of the regional parliament. It has a rich history in handicraft, shipping, and trade, and offers various attractions and activities due to its location near Lake Vänern.

Trollhättan, also in Västra Götaland County, houses over 59,000 inhabitants and is known for its heavy industries, hydropower, professional services, and intellectual property creation.

The collaboration within the SERN consortium and their participation in the ICC demonstrate their commitment to sustainability and innovative solutions for the benefit of their communities. Through joint efforts and shared goals, these municipalities aim to create a greener, more prosperous future for their communities while fostering valuable transnational partnerships.