The FAO Green Cities Network 2026 is a flagship global initiative by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) that connects cities and municipalities committed to creating greener, healthier, more inclusive, and resilient urban environments.

If your city is looking for opportunities to collaborate with international partners, exchange innovative ideas, and improve urban sustainability, then joining the FAO Green Cities Network is an excellent opportunity.

This guide explains everything you need to know about the FAO Green Cities Network 2026, including its objectives, benefits, eligibility, application process, and why municipalities worldwide are joining this growing international community.

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What is the FAO Green Cities Network?

The FAO Green Cities Network is an international community of cities working together to transform urban areas through integrated green development strategies.

Established under the FAO Green Cities Initiative, the Network supports cities in improving environmental sustainability while simultaneously enhancing economic growth, public health, food security, and community well-being.

Today, more than 300 cities around the world participate in the FAO Green Cities Network, making it one of the largest international urban sustainability communities.

The FAO Green Cities Network encourages collaboration between municipalities, experts, policymakers, and development partners to create greener urban futures.

About the FAO Green Cities Initiative

The FAO Green Cities Initiative (GCI) was launched in 2020 with an ambitious objective:

To improve the health and well-being of people and the environment in 1,000 cities worldwide by 2030.

The initiative promotes integrated urban development that combines:

• Environmental sustainability
• Climate resilience
• Food systems transformation
• Green infrastructure
• Inclusive urban planning
• Biodiversity conservation
• Community participation

The FAO Green Cities Initiative aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and supports long-term sustainable urban growth.

Core Areas of the FAO Green Cities Network

The FAO Green Cities Network focuses on three major pillars.

1. Urban and Peri-Urban Forestry

Cities are encouraged to expand green spaces through:

• Urban forests
• Tree planting
• Community parks
• Green corridors
• Nature restoration
• Biodiversity conservation

These initiatives improve air quality while reducing urban heat.

2. Urban and Peri-Urban Agriculture

The Network promotes sustainable food systems through:

• Urban farming
• Community gardens
• Rooftop agriculture
• Local food production
• Sustainable farming practices
• Food security initiatives

Urban agriculture contributes to healthier communities and more resilient food systems.

3. Sustainable Bioeconomy

Cities are encouraged to adopt environmentally friendly economic practices such as:

• Circular economy solutions
• Sustainable waste management
• Renewable resources
• Green innovation
• Resource efficiency
• Climate-smart urban development

Why Join the FAO Green Cities Network?

Joining the FAO Green Cities Network offers municipalities numerous advantages.

Access International Expertise

Members receive technical guidance from FAO specialists and international partners.

Global Knowledge Exchange

Participating cities learn directly from successful urban sustainability projects implemented around the world.

International Networking

The Network connects municipalities with:

• Local governments
• International organisations
• Researchers
• Urban planners
• Environmental experts
• Development agencies

Recognition

Cities implementing innovative green solutions gain international recognition through the Network.

Capacity Building

Members benefit from:

• Technical resources
• Best practice guides
• Learning opportunities
• Collaborative workshops
• Expert support

Who Can Join the FAO Green Cities Network?

The FAO Green Cities Network welcomes:

• Cities
• Municipal governments
• Local authorities
• Metropolitan administrations
• Urban municipalities

Municipalities from every region of the world are encouraged to apply.

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Benefits of Joining the FAO Green Cities Network

Cities joining the FAO Green Cities Network may benefit from:

• Access to global expertise
• International partnerships
• Technical guidance
• Knowledge-sharing opportunities
• Sustainable urban development support
• Climate resilience planning
• Food systems innovation
• Urban forestry expertise
• Sustainable agriculture support
• Recognition for green achievements
• Participation in global sustainability initiatives
• Connections with hundreds of cities worldwide

Sustainable Development Goals Supported

The FAO Green Cities Network directly contributes to several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

These include:

• SDG 2 – Zero Hunger
• SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-being
• SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities
• SDG 13 – Climate Action
• SDG 15 – Life on Land

How to Join the FAO Green Cities Network

Cities interested in joining should follow the application process provided by FAO.

The process generally includes:

• Reviewing Network requirements
• Completing the application
• Demonstrating commitment to sustainable urban development
• Submitting the required documentation
• Engaging with the FAO Green Cities team

Once accepted, cities become members of the international Network and gain access to its collaboration opportunities and technical resources.

What Happens After Joining?

After becoming members, municipalities can:

• Participate in international events
• Exchange experiences with other cities
• Access technical assistance
• Join collaborative projects
• Receive updates on new opportunities
• Showcase successful green initiatives
• Strengthen sustainable urban planning

Why the FAO Green Cities Network Matters

Rapid urbanisation presents major environmental and social challenges worldwide.

The FAO Green Cities Network helps cities address these challenges by promoting integrated solutions that improve:

• Environmental sustainability
• Public health
• Climate resilience
• Food security
• Biodiversity
• Green infrastructure
• Community well-being

The initiative demonstrates that cities can simultaneously achieve environmental, economic, and social progress.

Why You Should Join the FAO Green Cities Network

If your municipality is committed to sustainability, climate action, healthier communities, and resilient urban development, the FAO Green Cities Network provides an outstanding platform for collaboration and innovation.

By joining the FAO Green Cities Network, cities become part of a worldwide movement working toward greener, healthier, and more inclusive urban environments while contributing to global sustainable development goals.

Final Thoughts

The FAO Green Cities Network 2026 is more than a partnership—it is a global community committed to shaping the future of sustainable cities. With more than 300 participating cities and a vision of supporting 1,000 cities by 2030, the initiative offers municipalities access to knowledge, technical support, collaboration, and international recognition.

For cities seeking to advance urban forestry, sustainable agriculture, climate resilience, and inclusive development, joining the FAO Green Cities Network is a valuable opportunity to learn, collaborate, and lead.