City Governments

Expand green spaces 

Urban forests, wetlands and other “green” infrastructure can lower temperatures by up to 4°C, improve air quality, and protect communities from floods and storm surges.  These interventions improve public health, reduce stress and help communities better cope with climate shocks. 

Enhance sustainable forms of transport 

By expanding public transport and improving walking and cycling infrastructure and accelerating the adoption of electric mobility, cities can reduce emissions, improve public health and create cleaner, more connected communities. 

Make buildings more energy efficient 

By promoting efficient building design and passive cooling measures such as reflective roofs, shading and natural ventilation, cities can reduce reliance on air conditioning. In some regions, these solutions could cut cooling demand by more than 25 per cent while lowering emissions, reducing energy bills and helping people stay safer during extreme heat. 

Turn waste into opportunity 

Waste can become a powerful source of opportunity for cities. By expanding composting, improving recycling systems, supporting waste separation and capturing landfill methane for energy use, cities can create jobs, generate clean energy and improve public health. 

Create safer and more resilient cities 

From flash floods to heat waves, cities are facing growing climate risks. By investing in early-warning systems, resilience infrastructure and reviving their natural spaces, municipalities can better protect vulnerable communities and help buffer against extreme heat, flooding and other disasters.  

 

Want to learn more? 

Read UNEP’s latest climate reports