‘Stories of European Cities’ emphasises role of cities and local communities in EU’s urban development
The ‘Stories of European Cities’ book highlights Espoo’s sustainable development efforts as part of European urban development. The publication has attracted interest, particularly among EU-level operators, city networks, development organisations and funding providers.
Published in December 2025, the ‘Stories of European Cities’ book links local urban development to European policy, where key issues include the green transition, sustainable growth, social sustainability, resilience and innovation. It also offers a concrete model for integrating the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into the strategic management, decision-making and operational activities of cities.
“The importance of holistic sustainability in the EU’s urban policy is constantly growing. Cities play a key role in promoting the green transition, competitiveness and social sustainability. Strategic consistency with international and European goals strengthens the role of cities as partners, development platforms and recipients of funding,” says Mayor Kai Mykkänen.
The book presents the views of leaders and experts from pioneering European cities concerning the role of cities in the EU’s future development paths. The stories emphasise a combination of structural, systematic development and a network-based, experimental and innovative operating culture – a model that directly responds to the climate and innovation goals in the EU’s urban policy and programme funding.
In the European context, the book is a starting point for a new kind of urban development, not just as a handbook or a publication. It supports the capacity of cities and communities to build common approaches, strengthen EU partnerships and create effective development solutions across borders.
The book is available in PDF format on the City of Espoo website: Stories of European Cities – Clarity within complexity, story for a thriving city(external link, opens in a new window)
Enquiries
Ville Taajamaa, Development Manager, ville.taajamaa@espoo.fi, tel. +358 40 5083806