This is a powerful and historic response to climate change from cities around the world. GCoM is the largest global alliance for city climate leadership, built upon the commitment of over 11,500 cities and local governments. These cities hail from 6 continents and 142 countries. In total, they represent more than 1 billion people. Based on current targets and actions, GCoM cities and local governments could collectively reduce global emissions by 1.9 GtCO2e annually in 2030 compared to a business-as-usual (BAU) trajectory. In 2050, that figure is estimated to be 3.8 GtCO2e annually, comprising one-quarter of total urban emissions abatement potential. This is equivalent to more than half of all GHG emissions in the United States in 2019, or four years of CO2 emissions from global commercial aviation.

Increasingly, cities and local governments across the globe are heeding the call to act. With nations working towards the goals of the Paris Climate Agreement, cities’ involvement could not be more urgent.

The cities and partners of the Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate & Energy share a long-term vision of supporting voluntary action to combat climate change. Together, we’re working towards a resilient and low-emission society.

Click here to see their resources.

Click here to read more about the Innovate4Cities conference.

Source: Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate & Energy - About us

Image credits

Icon image: Covenant of Mayors - EU