Cities

While many national governments have set goals to align with the Paris Agreement, the most aggressive targets have been set by cities, states and regions. And these local authorities are already moving faster, decarbonizing at twice the rate of G20 governments. Cities have authority over land-use zoning, building efficiency, transportation, waste management and water services. They are well-positioned to implement sustainable policies to meet the needs of their region. While more cities are accelerating their strong climate commitments, implementing massive and complex plans is challenging.

What Challenges and Trends are Cities Managing Today?

Cities large and small face a continual challenge related to rapid growth. Worldwide, urban populations are expected to double by 2030. This growth drives increased demand for jobs, transportation and affordable housing, as well as increased consumption of energy, water and waste. Growth is also costly. Whether dealing with aging pipes and water systems, high-emission fossil fuel plants, landfills that have reached capacity, or outdated transportation infrastructure, cities have no shortage of investments to make, particularly urban design and transportation networks that can handle increased density and enhance efficiency of shared resources. Cities also must be resilient to the physical and socio-economic costs of climate change: flooding, water stress, energy shortages, food shortages, and air quality, to mention a few.

What Should Cities be Thinking About?

Some of the following actions can help cities address current trends and external pressures while implementing projects and policies that meet the needs of their citizens.

Clients

Fedex Office grey Whole Foods grey GE Renewables grey Capital one grey Lego grey Xylem grey Wework grey Panda Express grey Wagamama grey UBS grey Nestle Waters grey Canary Wharf grey Hyatt grey Cargill grey Burberry grey

50%

of the world's population lives in cities

70%

of global greenhouse gas emissions are generated by cities

500M

urban residents live in coastal areas

$26T

in potential economic benefits through zero-carbon strategies

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