Sharing knowledge: Ukrainian cities learn from Košice and Wrocław on public engagement for carbon neutrality

On 13 November 2025, U_CAN pilot cities joined European Mission Cities for the Third U_CAN Online Thematic Workshop - Public engagement for carbon neutrality, exploring how public engagement can drive the transition to carbon neutrality. The workshop, organised by Wrocław University of Science and Technology (WUST) and Aarhus University (AU), highlighted successful approaches from Košice and Wrocław, offering practical insights for Ukrainian cities seeking to foster citizen participation in climate action.

Košice shared its experience in building citizen engagement frameworks to support climate-resilient urban planning, while Wrocław presented innovative public engagement practices that encourage citizens to actively participate in carbon-neutral initiatives. Ukrainian pilot cities reflected on their own engagement traditions and challenges, identifying opportunities to adapt and implement similar approaches locally.

The session, led by Dr Katarzyna Piskorek (WUST), Helle Ørsted Nielsen and Anders Branth Pedersen (AU), emphasised defining engagement goals, selecting effective formats, measuring outcomes, and navigating challenges. Participants exchanged ideas in an interactive format, co-creating pathways toward greener, more resilient urban communities.

U_CAN thematic workshops will continue with a series of workshops from the University of L’Aquilla (ULA) on post-disaster reconstruction.