Building Resilient Cities: Bridging the Climate Mitigation and Adaptation Gap

Cities worldwide are increasingly recognized as pivotal players in tackling climate change through transformative actions for sustainable urban development. These initiatives aim to both mitigate and adapt to climate impacts, bolster urban resilience, and foster inclusive, sustainable growth. Particularly in the global south, cities are taking proactive steps to combat climate change, becoming significant agents of change. They are implementing innovative strategies that not only reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also promote poverty alleviation, job creation, and overall sustainable development.
This event will feature five key cities—Alexandria and Aswan (Egypt), Agadir tbc (Morocco), Ahmedabad (India), and Dhaka North City (Bangladesh)—providing a platform for comparative analysis and knowledge sharing. The goal is to showcase diverse perspectives on climate action while aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 13 (Climate Action).
Organized in collaboration with the ICLEI Local Governments for Sustainability, South Asia; Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC); the National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA);, , the Urban Development Fund of Egypt (UDF); UN-Habitat Morocco; GIZ Egypt; and GIZ Morocco, the event titled 'Building Resilient Cities: Bridging the Climate Mitigation and Adaptation Gap' during WUF12 aims to highlight the successes of these cities in addressing climate change. It emphasizes cities' pivotal role as drivers of change and will bring together experts to explore strategies for advancing urban climate action. The event seeks to facilitate the exchange of best practices at the local level and explore how local initiatives can align with national climate plans, strategies, and international agendas.
Key domains such as sustainable energy, mobility, housing, water management, and governance will be highlighted during the session, showcasing cities' comprehensive responses to climate challenges.