Cities are critical to accelerating climate action and are where the mitigation and adaptation agendas intersect. While over 80 percent of global economic activity is concentrated in cities, they are also the frontlines of multiple crises. Cities acutely feel the impacts of pandemics and endemics, conflict and displacement, and climate change - all of which can exacerbate risks and compound inequalities.
By supporting climate-smart development, governments and city leaders can avoid locking-in unsustainable infrastructure, create much-needed jobs, and build economies that are inclusive, low-carbon, climate-resilient and sustainable. It is critical to equip countries and cities with access to urban climate finance, through both improved climate action planning and the prioritization and monitoring of impactful investments.
