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Established in 2005, C40 Cities represent just under 600 million residents worldwide and are instrumental in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and climate risks, while increasing health, well-being, and economic opportunities. As urban areas continue to grow, the role of these cities is becoming increasingly crucial in shaping a sustainable future, demonstrating the power of collective action in the face of climate change.
👉 This article explores C40 Cities, examining their mission, impact, and the important role they play in the fight against climate change.
C40 is a network of nearly 100 mayors across the world committed to addressing climate change. This initiative, which started in 2005, brings together urban centres from around the globe to collaborate on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving climate resilience. By adopting a science-based approach C40 mayors find themselves at the cutting edge of climate action.
In 2005, London's then-mayor, Ken Livingstone, brought together leaders from 18 major cities to discuss urban climate policies and forge an agreement on reducing pollution. This meeting laid the foundation for what is now known as the C40 Cities Climate Leadership Group. Originally, the focus was on the biggest urban centres, but it has since expanded to include a wider range of cities, each facing unique environmental challenges.
Since its inception, the network has grown to include over 96 cities. This expansion is a clear indication of the increasing importance and need for considered urban responses to climate change. Each member city brings its own approach to environmental challenges, contributing to a wide variety of strategies and solutions.
One of the key aspects of C40 Cities is their adaptability. With such a diverse range of members, a one-size-fits-all approach is not the answer. Instead, the network thrives on the exchange of ideas and experiences, learning from each city’s successes and setbacks. This approach allows for more tailored and effective climate action strategies that suit a variety of different cities across the world.
As the C40 network has grown, so too has its influence on global climate policy. By bringing together cities from around the world, C40 has become a powerful voice in the conversation about how to build a sustainable future, proving the importance of urban action in the global fight against climate change.
The mission of C40 is to help the world limit global heating to 1.5°C by reducing greenhouse gas emissions while also improving the health, well-being, and economic opportunities of urban populations. This mission is underpinned by the acknowledgment that cities are both significant contributors to climate change and key to the solution.
At the heart of C40's objectives is the goal of halving emissions by 2030, aligning with the Paris Agreement’s objective of limiting global heating to 1.5°C. C40 aims to achieve this by supporting mayors as they transition their cities to net zero emissions.
The strategic objectives of C40 are determined by the elected Steering Committee. This is currently co-chaired by London Mayor, Sadiq Khan, and Freetown Mayor, Yvonee Aki-Sawyerr.
👉 To learn more about the Paris Agreement head over to our blog.
With over 96 C40 cities across the world, C40 membership is diverse. Among these, several cities stand out for their significant contributions and leadership. Notable members include New York, London, Paris, Tokyo, and Johannesburg, representing different continents and a range of urban challenges and opportunities. These cities, along with others like Los Angeles, Beijing, Mumbai, and São Paulo, exemplify the global reach and inclusive nature of the C40 network.
Membership in C40 is unique in that it is earned through action rather than fees. The network sets rigorous, performance-based Leadership Standards, ensuring that every member city actively contributes to the collective mission of combating climate change. The key aspects of these standards include:
The role of C40 Cities in shaping global climate policy has the potential to be transformative. As a network, C40 Cities leverage their collective power to influence global agendas and drive meaningful change. This influence is evident in how these cities have become hotbeds for innovative climate solutions, setting examples for others to follow.
One significant impact of C40 Cities is their contribution to the advancement of green infrastructure and sustainable urban planning. For example, Copenhagen, a member of C40, has made remarkable strides in promoting cycling and renewable energy, aiming to become the world’s first carbon-neutral capital by 2025. Similarly, in New York City, the introduction of robust climate policies has led to substantial improvements in energy efficiency and a notable expansion of green spaces, enhancing both environmental health and urban liveability.
In the Global South, cities like Johannesburg are demonstrating the critical role of C40 Cities in adapting to climate change while addressing socio-economic challenges. Initiatives in Johannesburg focus on sustainable public transportation and energy-efficient building developments, aiming to reduce emissions while boosting economic growth and social inclusion.
The C40 network also encourages a collaborative approach among member cities, enabling them to share knowledge and experiences. This collaboration has led to the replication of successful strategies across different cities, amplifying the overall impact of the network. For example, the adoption of electric bus fleets first pioneered in cities like Los Angeles and later adopted by others, highlights the power of shared learning and collective action within C40 Cities.
👉 Discover how London’s Low Emission Zone is helping to cut GHG emissions in the city.
While the C40 Cities network has achieved significant successes, it also faces its share of challenges and criticisms. Addressing these is crucial for the continued effectiveness and credibility of the initiative.
One of the primary operational challenges in C40 Cities is the coordination and implementation of climate action plans across such varied city landscapes. Each member city has its unique environmental, economic, and social contexts, making it challenging to apply a one-size-fits-all approach. This diversity requires tailored strategies, which can complicate the process of sharing best practices and achieving cohesive action across the network.
Critics have also pointed out that while C40 Cities are leaders in climate action, they represent only a fraction of the world's urban areas. There is concern that the focus on major cities might overshadow the needs and contributions of smaller cities and towns, which are equally important in the global fight against climate change. Additionally, some experts argue that the ambitious goals of C40 Cities may not be fully attainable or could be hindered by political and economic constraints, particularly in cities with fewer resources.
In response to these challenges and criticisms, C40 Cities are continually adapting their approaches. The network emphasises inclusive and equitable action, recognising the importance of addressing the unique needs of each city. To tackle the issue of scalability and resource constraints, C40 provides support for cities to access financing and develop innovative solutions tailored to their specific circumstances. The network also engages in advocacy and diplomacy to influence wider policy changes that can facilitate the goals of all member cities, not just the major ones. This adaptive approach is key to ensuring that the network remains effective in leading urban areas towards a sustainable and resilient future.
👉 Discover Saudi Arabia’s recent development, The Line, a sustainable city that is being built in the desert.
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