As cities grow, their negative environmental impact also increases, accounting for 70 percent of greenhouse gas emissions. Therefore, cities and its inhabitants have a significant role in reducing environmental impact and achieving sustainable development, which is embodied in the global sustainable development goals. An example of this is the study of environmental issues in the city of Malmö, and the efforts to involve its citizens in the ongoing local work for the 2030 agenda. The aim of this study is to assess, with qualitative knowledge, how citizens' knowledge, participation and commitment in climate and environmental matters can help the city of Malmö to reach their vision of becoming sustainable. By studying cases from other cities work with citizens' involvement and participation, six criterias and three draft concepts have been created for a strategical sustainable way of working. Testimonies were collected from municipal employees who worked with related issues, presenting the adequate questions to strengthen the value of the concepts. The study shows that there are environmental benefits by sharing knowledge as well as involving citizens in the work to achieve a sustainable city. Consequently, the study also supported the need to further develop the work towards involving citizens as well as, to utilizing existing commitment and ensuring continuity. The realization of the draft concepts will contribute to raising citizens' knowledge and awareness about their environmental impact and thereby raising their commitment and participation for a more environmentally and sustainable Malmö.