Empowering Climate-conscious Cities - Mainstreaming climate action into urban planning. Solutions from the global South

Cities play a critical role in addressing the climate crisis, acting as essential hubs to localise mitigation and adaptation strategies. This session will explore how city-led climate action can promote sustainable, resilient, and inclusive urban futures, positioning cities as pivotal actors in achieving global climate objectives.

This city-to-city exchange spotlight the experience of six cities in mainstreaming climate into urban planning processes with a focus on inclusive, community-driven approaches: Coimbatore (India), Antipolo City (Philippines), Mérida (Mexico), City of uMhlathuze (South Africa), Itapecuru-Mirim (Brazil) and Fortaleza (Brazil).

Each city will showcase its unique challenges and strategies, demonstrating how climate considerations have been integrated into urban development. The solutions presented will include a diverse range of approaches, from nature-based solutions and inclusive adaptation strategies to sustainable infrastructure projects. The event will also highlight gender-responsive and pro-poor approaches to urban climate action.

Networking is at the heart of this event, bringing participants together through interactive formats like the “Climate Solutions Marketplace” and the “Cities Roundtable on Mainstreaming Climate Action into Urban Planning”. It serves as an excellent opportunity for city leaders, climate advocates, newcomers and potential partners to connect, exchange ideas, and explore collaborations towards building more climate-resilient and sustainable cities.