Letters | Why cities like Hong Kong have a crucial role to play in the climate fight
- Readers discuss the need for national governments to work with cities on climate change, public officials using plastic bags and containers, and the potential for social media to help ecological preservation
With over half of the world’s population living in cities and this share projected to increase to nearly 70 per cent by 2050, it is imperative that national governments recognise cities as crucial partners in achieving global climate goals. The new Coalition for High Ambition Multi-Level Partnerships initiative, launched at Cop28, aims to ensure that national governments work closely with local governments – be they cities, states or regions – on climate plans to make nationally determined contributions (NDCs) bolder ahead of Cop30 in 2025. This is a step in the right direction as cities have already demonstrated their potential in implementing climate solutions and setting ambitious targets.
At past climate summits, cities have collectively showcased their achievements in reducing emissions and building resilience. Through networks such as the C40 Cities Climate Leadership Group, the International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives and the Global Covenant of Mayors, cities have set their own ambitious climate targets and successfully implemented localised solutions, such as decarbonising public transport and buildings and reducing waste. These efforts have had a significant impact on the implementation of NDCs, complementing national governments’ commitments.
However, two-thirds of countries have moderate to low, or even no, urban content in their NDCs. Strengthening urban content in these countries’ NDCs offers an opportunity to accelerate global climate action and set more ambitious goals, enabling cities to access additional finance for mitigation and adaptation projects. With countries required to submit their updated NDCs before 2025, it is important that national governments and subnational actors like mayors and governors work together to raise national climate-action targets.
By working hand in hand with cities to make climate plans more ambitious, all levels of government can contribute to a more sustainable and climate-resilient future for all.