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Can Cities Take the Lead on Climate Change?

Published April 02, 2019

The Role of Cities in Achieving Progress


Mandy Ikert of C40 Cities Climate Leadership Group shares insights from urban leaders around the world.

According to the United Nations, 55% of the world’s population lives in cities, and that number is expected to grow to nearly 70% by 2050. In addition, the UN estimates that cities consume over 75% of the world's energy, and emit 50-60% of greenhouse gases. As a result, cities will play a critical role in our collective climate future. How can local municipal governments, and the world's growing urban citizenry, take the lead in tackling climate change?

Mandy Ikert, Head of Adaptation Implementation at C40 Cities Climate Leadership Group, offers insights and real-world examples from cities around the globe that are making significant headway in addressing everything from sea-level rise to greenhouse gas emissions.


This talk was part of our event celebrating the 10th Anniversary of the NYC Panel on Climate Change and the release of their latest recommendations, published in an Annals volume. Members can access the full report here.

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