The event 'A green transition for all: how to empower participatory governance for future‑proof cities', taking place in Guimarães, Portugal, on 28–29 April 2026, explores how citizen engagement, integrated planning, and multi‑level governance can strengthen local climate and energy strategies. Organised within the SPARKLE learning programme, it brings together local governments and practitioners to examine how participatory approaches can make municipal climate action more resilient, inclusive, and widely supported.

The themes addressed have direct implications for the built environment, as buildings are central to local decarbonisation pathways. Participatory governance can help cities design renovation strategies that reflect community needs, improve the energy performance of homes and public buildings, and ensure that planning processes integrate social, environmental, and spatial considerations. By involving residents, planners, and municipal departments in shaping future‑proof urban policies, the event highlights how collaborative decision‑making can accelerate the transformation of buildings into healthier, more efficient, and climate‑resilient spaces.