JUSTGREEN Local Stakeholder Meeting – City of Katowice
On Friday, July 5th, the city of Katowice hosted their very first meeting of the JUSTGREEN project working group, marking an important step in the journey to create a greener, more climate-resilient Katowice. This gathering was dedicated to discussing project goals, action plans, and strategies for engaging the local community as part of a broader European effort to adapt cities to the challenges of climate change.
Magdalena Biela, Deputy Director of the Urban Greenery Department (ZZM), highlighted the significance of the JUSTGREEN project for Katowice and its potential to promote the city. "The JUSTGREEN project is a fantastic opportunity to showcase our city’s dedication to sustainability. In today's world, having strong promotional activities is essential, and this initiative should ultimately lead to a well-defined greening policy. That’s why we’ve chosen Szopienice, an area currently lacking green spaces, as our focus. Community involvement is crucial, as the impact of green projects on health, the economy, and society is immense. We look forward to celebrating our collective achievements when the project concludes in Katowice in 2027," Magdalena Biela shared enthusiastically.
One of the key discussions at the meeting revolved around integrating green spaces into Szopienice, a district that is notably lacking in greenery. Participants exchanged ideas on the best ways to involve the local community throughout the planning and implementation stages, stressing the importance of public input in shaping urban greening initiatives.
This isn’t the first time Katowice has collaborated with Rotterdam on a European project. "Our previous partnership with Rotterdam was highly fruitful, as seen in the successful URBACT project in Załęże. We aim to use the JUSTGREEN project as an opportunity to conduct an in-depth analysis and develop fair, inclusive solutions for all our residents," added Agnieszka Hajduk-Smaczniewska, Head of the Strategic Planning Department in the City Development Division.