Cities and towns (cities) are a critical partner in the design of a low-carbon future. Generating up to 70 percent of the world’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions,[1] cities can drive down carbon emissions through sustainable policies and programs. Not only do these actions have the potential to improve the health of our planet, but cities are also uniquely positioned to lead the transformation of our current fossil-fuel based society into one that fosters more jobs, better health, and brings a more just and equitable economy.

Source of photo: Climate Emergency, Urban Opportunity report.

How can cities become more resilient to climate change and its impacts? Just ask the Global Covenant of Mayors (GCoM). This network of more than 10,000 mayors from local governments across the world is working towards “a resilient and low emission economy.” In its recent report titled “Climate Emergency, Urban Opportunity,” the GCoM explores how local, state, and national governments have the power and unique opportunity to work together to create resiliency, while also implementing mitigation strategies, in the face of a climate emergency.