SPARKLE / SPARKLE Schools
Sustainable Planning and Resilience Knowledge Learning Environment
As part of the SPARKLE project, five thematic, in-person Schools brought together local and regional authorities from across Europe to explore practical solutions for the clean energy transition. Hosted in five European cities between March and June 2026, the Schools combined expert insights, hands-on workshops, study visits and peer-to-peer exchange, helping participants turn knowledge into action in their territories.
Together, the Schools attracted almost 200 participants and awarded scholarships to representatives of 66 local and regional authorities. Each School focused on one of SPARKLE’s five thematic pillars.
Poreč, Croatia | Community energy
From renewables to resilience: building stronger communities and cities
How can local authorities work with citizens to develop locally owned renewable energy? Participants explored energy communities, financing mechanisms, cooperation models and inclusive citizen engagement, discovering how community energy can strengthen local economies and social cohesion.
Guimarães, Portugal | Future-proof governance
A green transition for all: empowering participatory governance
The School explored how participatory governance, integrated planning and citizen engagement can strengthen local climate strategies. Through practical examples and a neighbourhood study visit, participants discovered approaches to building more inclusive, resilient and future-ready cities.
Calenzano, Italy | Resource-wise and socially just local economies
When circular economy meets local climate strategies
Participants explored how circular economy principles can be integrated into local climate and energy plans, particularly through urban regeneration. Topics included resource efficiency, soil health, climate adaptation, waste prevention, reuse and repair, with practical examples of how local authorities can support more sustainable and socially just economies.
Vilnius, Lithuania | Fossil-free districts and buildings
Decarbonising buildings and energy districts for the benefit of all
The School focused on building renovation and the decarbonisation of local energy systems. Participants exchanged experiences, took part in hands-on workshops and visited local projects, exploring how energy-efficient buildings, renewable heating and cooling, and citizen engagement can help create healthier, more comfortable and climate-friendly neighbourhoods.
Albertville, France | Sustainable food systems and land use
Eat better, waste less, produce locally
Participants explored how local authorities can develop more sustainable, resilient and inclusive food systems. The programme addressed urban and peri-urban food production, climate mitigation and adaptation, healthier diets and food-related emissions, highlighting how local food policies can benefit both people and the environment.
Project Contact
Valentina Alberti
Senior Project Officer
Team Members
Project Officer
