The European Green Deal is the EU's social and economic development strategy for the coming years. Its main goal is to transform the European Union into a modern, socially equitable and climate neutral area.

- The European Green Deal and the Covenant of Mayors are the main drivers of changes in the EU for the coming years and the achievement of climate neutrality in 2050. Now we have to implement their solutions and tools at the national level, which requires the involvement of all interested parties. As the Ambassador of the Covenant of Mayors, I take up this challenge because I am convinced that without cooperation at every level, we will not be able to rebuild our countries or achieve the climate goals set by Europe, says Hanna Zdanowska.

The Covenant of Mayors for Climate and Energy was established in 2008 and today brings together over 10,000 representatives of local governments from 61 countries. The agreement supports the implementation of the European Climate Pact, including the achievement of Europe's climate neutrality in 2050. It works both in the local area, through the implementation of the Pact in local governments, as well as at the national and international level, supporting each other in activities for the environment.

The Covenant of Mayors works closely with the European Committee of the Regions, an advisory and opinion-making body for both the European Commission and the Council of Europe. The Committee of the Regions, together with the Covenant of Mayors and Mr. Frans Timmermans, Vice-President of the European Commission, established the Chamber of National Ambassadors to implement and promote the European Climate Pact in the member states. The Committee of the Regions chose one ambassador from each of the 27 member states, in Poland it was Hanna Zdanowska, the mayor of the city of Łódź.

The official announcement of all ambassadors of the Chamber takes place on Wednesday, April 21.

- In order to be successful in achieving our goals, we must involve everyone: from residents, through local governments, to national authorities. We need to support each other, use our experiences and exchange knowledge. Łódź has invaluable experience in the field of revitalization, also in the fight against low emissions. We implement the largest program of this type in the country. We test and implement various solutions that already create a knowledge center for anyone facing a similar challenge - says Hanna Zdanowska. - In the Covenant of Mayors, we are well aware of the importance of joint action in achieving common goals. As an ambassador, I want and intend to develop this understanding in all areas of life and activities that bring us closer to achieving success. I offer support and help to each and every one of you.

Ambassadors have a number of activities and tools at their disposal to adopt and strengthen an EU initiative in their countries. Among those on which Hanna Zdanowska will focus in the near future are:

• workshops with representatives of the European Commission on the European Green Deal, revitalization and sustainable and low-emission transport planned for May,
• tightening cooperation within the Association of Łódź Metropolitan Area and encouraging associated communesto join the Covenant of Mayors,
• cooperation with local government corporations, including: the Union of Polish Metropolises, the Association of Polish Cities, the Union of Polish Towns,
• combining efforts with neighboring municipalities in the fight for better air quality by reducing emissions,
• Taking into account the needs of residents and local governments in strategic documents
• striving for direct access to EU funds by local governments.