The Importance of Connecting People With Nature in Times of Social Isolation
Measures to the address COVID-19 pandemic that rely on social distancing and social isolation are placing a huge strain on our communities, our public health systems and our economies. As our cities are grappling with this massive challenge, the role
How Lilongwe’s Bats Are Contributing to National Biodiversity Planning
The importance of nature in cities is well-documented and can motivate city leaders to take action on bringing nature back into urban areas. One of the many benefits of urban nature is that it provides us with an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables
Why Cities, Towns and Regions Are Creating a Roadmap Towards 100% Renewable Energy
Tackling the climate emergency – a security, socioeconomic and environmental crisis – requires the unprecedented transformation of energy systems and an immediate transition to renewable energy across all sectors. For a perspective on why cities and regions are going renewable and
Achieving Road Safety Through Vision Zero
Road traffic injuries are the tenth leading cause of death globally, and the first cause of death for children and young adults between 5-29 years of age. Every 25 seconds, somewhere in the world, one person is killed on the
After COP25: Frustration Over Decisions, More Hope on Local Climate Action
This article, first published on the ICLEI blog, is part of our "COP25" Editorial Series, done in partnership with ICLEI — Local Governments for Sustainability. The longest-ever climate conference, COP25, concluded on Sunday, Dec. 15, 2019. The talks punted a number of
The Glorious Past Returns: How Essen Is Harnessing Its Industrial Legacy to Accelerate Sustainability
This article, first published on the ICLEI blog and with Essen in the spotlight, is part of our "COP25" Editorial Series, done in partnership with ICLEI — Local Governments for Sustainability. At the height of the industrial revolution, Essen was a hub
Turku’s Advice on Circularity: Imagine the Possibilities, Then Get Started
The town of Turku, a member of ICLEI's Green Circular Cities Coalition, was in the spotlight at COP25's circularity sessions thanks to its exemplary circularity practices and results. This article, first published on the ICLEI blog, is part of our "COP25"
New Policy Brief: Toward Carbon-Neutral Circular Economies at the Regional Level
A major focus in COP25 is on “how” to reduce emissions and achieve carbon-neutral circular economic systems at the local and regional level and beyond. This article explores the positive experiences of the City of Turku (Finland). This article, first published
Reflections on the First-Ever COP Transport Day
COP25 marks the first-ever Transport Day hosted by a COP Presidency. The discussion among transport stakeholders is urgently needed yet has been long overdue. While 83% of NDCs (Nationally-Determined Contributions) identify transport as an important source of GHG emissions and
COP25: Cities key steps to fight against climate change
A highlight in COP 25 meetings held in Madrid this week was a side event that pointed to the key role cities of all sizes, including smaller municipalities, can play in the fight against climate change. Gathered in the Forum
Female Mayor ‘Warriors’ of the Amazon Inspire COP25 Delegates With Stories of Resilience
At the Women Mayors of Amazon session held at COP25 on December 6, women Mayors in four vulnerable municipalities in the Amazon rainforest vividly illustrated the challenges they face. This is the second article in our COP25 series. This article, first
COP25 Highlights Plight of Most Vulnerable Nations
While much of the world’s attention is focused on limiting the long-term effects of global warming, the kick-off to COP25 fittingly shined light on the monumental challenges the world’s most vulnerable nations already face — challenges brought on by everything