Governance I: National Perspective

Transforming cities together: the role of national governments in local climate action

Protecting the planet by limiting global warming to 1.5°C requires urgent, transformative action to transition to a low carbon society, including through the transformation of urban systems. While many city leaders are doing a lot to advance this transition, national leadership is also essential to deliver an urban transformation that fuels economic development while reducing the risks of climate change. This transition represents an enormous opportunity to develop climate resilient towns and cities that are more economically productive, socially inclusive, cleaner, healthier and safer for all. Strong action is needed at all levels of government, as well as an active collaboration across the different levels and with other stakeholders such as the private sector and civil society.

The cluster session explores the unique and critical role of national governments in low-carbon urban development. It introduces national urban policies, and best practice examples from around the world. Furthermore, it follows the question on how national governments can support local climate action by facilitating active collaboration and implementing enabling policies.