Background

Climate change is one of the greatest challenges that humanity faces today. Its effects are already being felt worldwide, from rising temperatures and sea levels to extreme weather events, such as droughts and floods. These changes are causing significant impacts on people’s lives, livelihoods, and the environment.

Urban areas are at the forefront of the fight against climate change. With around 55% of the world’s population living in urban areas and this figure projected to rise to 68% by 2050, cities are responsible for around 70% of global greenhouse gas emissions. At the same time, cities are also driving innovation and collaboration for climate action.

Cities have a unique opportunity to promote sustainable development and combat climate change. Urban innovation can accelerate the transition to low-carbon, resilient, and livable cities. By promoting circular economy principles, adopting smart technologies, increasing energy efficiency, and switching to renewable energy, urban areas can reduce their environmental footprint and become more sustainable and resilient.

Urban innovation can also help cities adapt to the impacts of climate change. Cities can implement nature-based solutions, such as green roofs, green walls, and urban forests, to reduce the urban heat island effect and improve air quality. Innovative transport solutions, such as bike-sharing schemes and electric vehicles, are already reducing emissions and improving urban mobility in cities. By adopting these innovations, the quality of life in cities can improve, while contributing to the fight against climate change.

Focus

The 2023 edition of Bridge for Cities on "Accelerating Climate Action through Urban Innovation" seeks to bring together urban stakeholders from cities along the Belt and Road and beyond to discuss the latest urban development solutions and explore how urban innovation can drive climate action and create more sustainable, resilient, and livable cities.

The event will showcase examples of climate action and urban innovations in the area of circular economy, energy, and technology.

It will highlight the critical role of partnerships between cities and other urban stakeholders, inc. business sector, international organizations, financial institutions, think tanks and academia, to address the urban challenges.

The event will put a special emphasis on financing urban transformation and climate action, through innovative approaches and collaboration with financial institutions and climate funds.

By fostering collaboration and innovation, the event aims to contribute to a more sustainable and resilient future for cities and the planet.

See agenda and register here.