Traslated by Andrés Martínez Forero
‘Bogotá, My City, My Home’ — the world is watching you! Colombia’s capital takes a bold new step in its environmental and social transformation as a finalist for The Earthshot Prize in the “Clean Our Air” category — the most important environmental award in the world, created by Prince William to highlight the most innovative solutions addressing the planet’s greatest challenges.
We invite you to discover: Bogotá Recognized Among Global Finalists for the 2025 Earthshot Prize
A City That Breathes Better
This nomination marks a significant achievement for Bogotá, sending a clear message: the city not only attracts visitors, but also does so with ecological responsibility and commitment to the well‑being of its inhabitants.
From cycling along its extensive bike lane network to taking eco‑tours of community gardens or urban trails, the capital offers sustainable experiences that position it as a modern, healthy, and vibrant destination.
A Climate Action Model in Latin America
Over recent decades, Bogotá has confronted the challenge of air pollution caused by diesel buses, freight trucks and dust from unpaved roads — especially in vulnerable communities.
In response, the city launched a comprehensive transformation that has redesigned mobility and improved air quality for more than 8 million residents. Since 2018, air pollution has dropped by 24%, the result of sustained long‑term policies and actions, among which:
- A fleet of more than 1,400 electric buses, one of the largest in the world.
- The first fully‑electric metro line.
- Over 100 km of dedicated low‑emission bus corridors.
- The largest bike lane network in Latin America, promoting active mobility.
- Three cable‑car lines improving connectivity in hard‑to‑access zones.
Urban Innovations for Cleaner Air
A key milestone has been the creation of the Urban Clean Air Zone (ZUMA) in the Bosa district, designed to reduce emissions through pavement upgrades, freight‑transport renewal, expansion of green areas and promotion of cycling.
At the same time, the city has greened its urban environment with over 1,000 new trees, 7,000 urban gardens and 20,000 m² of green roofs and vertical gardens, backed by an investment exceeding USD $19.9 billion in sustainable mobility, air quality and public space.
Also check: With Breathe Cities, Bogotá Launches New Strategies for Air Quality
Visible Results and Future Targets
Today Bogotá shows sustained reductions in pollution, less traffic and higher levels of physical activity among its citizens. By 2028, the city aims to avoid more than 300,000 tonnes CO₂ per year—comparable to removing 65,000 cars off the road or preserving a forest ten times the size of Manhattan.
Global Projection and Purpose‑Driven Tourism
This distinction reinforces Bogotá’s image as a global destination committed to sustainability.
- International projection: Competing among the world’s leading cities cements its environmental leadership.
- Sustainable experiences: Bike routes, restored parks and urban gardens that connect nature and community.
- Responsible tourism: Every environmental policy becomes an opportunity for visitors to participate in building a greener, more aware city.
In the words of the mayor, Carlos Fernando Galán, posted on The Earthshot Prize’s official website:
“Being a finalist of The Earthshot Prize is incredibly special for Bogotá, because it shows how coordinated action in transport, freight and green infrastructure can dramatically improve air quality. If Bogotá wins the Prize, it will not only be an honour for us, but also for cities in the Global South, by demonstrating that bold climate action is urgent and possible.”
What is The Earthshot Prize?
Launched in 2020 by Prince William, The Earthshot Prize recognises each year five transformative initiatives across the following categories:
- Protect and Restore Nature.
- Clean Our Air.
- Revive Our Oceans.
- Build a Waste‑Free World.
- Fix Our Climate.
Each winner receives £1 million to strengthen their project and scale their impact.
Don't leave without consulting: The first train of Bogotá Metro Line 1 arrived in Colombia
Thus, Bogotá celebrates a nomination that not only honours its environmental leadership, but also drives its aspiration as a sustainable tourism destination, where development and respect for the planet go hand in hand.
*This article was created using information provided by the Bogotá’s International Relations Office and curated by a journalist from Portal Bogotá. For suggestions, questions, or more information, visit Bogotá Te Escucha: https://bogota.gov.co/sdqs/
