In this third module, we will investigate the role of cities in mitigating greenhouse gas emissions. Mirjam Harmelink makes an introduction to this module’s topics in the video below.

Key takeaways

• Cities generate around 70% of global carbon dioxide emissions and are responsible for 75% of global energy use. Cities, however, are also a global economic engine, responsible for 80% of worldwide GDP, and represent a significant opportunity to accelerate progress towards ambitious climate goals. These factors make the decarbonisation of cities a worldwide priority and of unique significance to achieving national commitments and objectives. A study by the International Energy Agency in 2021 showed that acting in cities could reduce greenhouse gas emissions by nearly 90% in 2050; this requires a tripling of energy investments in the coming decade.
• There is a growing number of international initiatives to move towards climate-neutral cities. The most well know is the Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate and Energy, with worldwide participation of almost 12,000 cities. Other initiatives include the C40 Cities Climate Leadership Group, Carbon Neutral Cities Alliance, and the European Commission 100 Climate-Neutral Cities by 2030. These initiatives bring together city authorities and other stakeholders to inspire each other, discuss best practices and provide practical support in the climate action planning of cities.