AI-Generated Summary
Learn moreContext and Overview
The C40 Annual Report 2023 is published by C40 Cities, a global network that unites nearly 100 mayors from leading cities around the world to tackle climate change through city-led initiatives. Released in the wake of alarming climate conditions, including unprecedented global heating and an increase in climate-related disasters, this report highlights the urgent need for transformative actions at the urban level. It outlines C40's commitment to empower cities to implement science-based policies aimed at phasing out fossil fuels and addressing climate inequities.
Key Strategic Missions
C40's efforts are centered around two primary missions: phasing out fossil fuels and enhancing urban resilience and equity in the face of climate change. To support these missions, C40 has established four critical sub-missions: demonstrating the harmful effects of fossil gas, creating low or zero-emission transport zones, unlocking investments for urban climate projects, and generating 50 million green jobs by 2030.
Major Initiatives and Achievements
In 2023, C40 launched significant initiatives aimed at improving air quality, engaging youth in climate actions, and promoting urban climate strategies. Notable achievements include:
- Air Quality Improvement: The "Breathe Cities" initiative was introduced, targeting air quality enhancement in 11 cities, including London and Nairobi. 2. Youth Engagement: Establishment of youth networks to involve younger generations in climate initiatives, highlighted by programs like "Students Reinventing Cities." 3. Urban Climate Action: Cities such as Bogotá and Warsaw adopted ambitious climate action plans that align with the Paris Agreement. 4. Energy Transition: Notable projects in cities like Rio de Janeiro and Curitiba focused on renewable energy, including municipal power purchase agreements and solar installations. 5. Building Decarbonization: Boston's executive order to eliminate fossil fuels in new municipal buildings and Beijing's green construction regulations exemplify proactive measures in building sustainability. 6. Sustainable Food Systems: Barcelona's collaborative agreements emphasized sustainable urban food systems, showcased at COP28. 7. Waste Management: The "LOW-Methane" initiative in cities like Mumbai and Durban aimed at reducing methane emissions through innovative waste management. 8. Urban Planning: The promotion of the "15-Minute City" concept has seen cities like Rome working to improve local access to essential services.
Inclusive Climate Action
C40 has expanded its Inclusive Climate Action Programme to tackle structural inequalities while addressing climate challenges. Significant projects include support for informal waste workers in Accra and resilience enhancements for individuals with disabilities in Vancouver during extreme heat events. The Women4Climate Mentorship Programme has successfully empowered over 1,000 women leaders globally.
Green Job Creation
Collectively, C40 cities have created over 14 million green jobs across various sectors, including waste management and energy. For instance, Johannesburg has trained officials on green building policies to bolster local job creation.
Governance and Leadership
C40 is co-chaired by Sadiq Khan, Mayor of London, and Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr, Mayor of Freetown, and is governed by a Steering Committee of mayors from diverse regions. Philanthropic funding from partners such as Bloomberg Philanthropies supports its initiatives.
Future Outlook
As C40 prepares to conclude its current business plan in 2024, the organization aims to develop a new strategy for 2025–2030, focusing on halving emissions by 2030 and ensuring a just energy transition. Future initiatives will include climate budgeting, urban nature accelerators, and enhancing renewable energy adoption, reinforcing cities’ pivotal role in addressing climate change while fostering equity, resilience, and innovation.