At COP29, California and Tokyo leaders urge cities to lead on climate action
Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike and Yana Garcia, Secretary for Environmental Protection at the California Environmental Protection Agency (CalEPA), called for urgent action from local governments to tackle climate change, stressing the need for multilevel collaboration in the face of the global climate crisis. Garcia, in particular, underscored the importance of acting decisively, regardless of who leads national policies.
California’s Response to Federal Political Changes
The recent U.S. elections have brought a shift in federal power, which is expected to slow federal climate initiatives. However, California and its cities have a history of pioneering environmental action and are prepared to strengthen local climate commitments to offset potential national inaction. The state has led ambitious initiatives, from carbon emissions regulations to renewable energy mandates, and California cities are likely to continue innovating on climate, regardless of federal support.
“No matter who is at the White House, California has led previously and will continue to lead,” said Ms. Garcia. “That goes for our climate policies, it goes for our commitments, it goes for our commitment to achieve carbon neutrality by 2045.”
California’s participation in international climate partnerships, such as the Under2 Coalition, reflects its commitment to collaboration. This alliance and other efforts will allow California’s local governments to pursue impactful climate programs, like community-based solar, zero-emission transit networks, and sustainable urban planning. With or without national climate leadership, Californian cities demonstrate that local action can drive change.
Japan’s GHG calculation: A challenge to local recognition
In Japan, local governments calculate their electricity base GHG emission using the emission factor provided by the government, hence diluting the visible impact of individual efforts.
“Under this model, contributions from cities are averaged,” said Togo Uchida, Executive Director of ICLEI Japan, “and cities that excel in emissions reduction may not receive the full credit they deserve, which could discourage further local climate action.
Although Japan’s system can work against high-performing cities, municipalities can still be climate leaders. By actively pursuing local climate goals and joining international networks, Japanese cities can help meet global targets while serving as models of effective, independent climate action.
In this context, like in California, Japanese municipalities are encouraged to pursue climate initiatives without waiting for national acknowledgment. They can adopt ambitious local programs, from renewable energy projects and green urban design to low-emission buildings and transportation systems. These efforts may not directly appear in GHG emission reports, but they have a profound, immediate impact on local economies, environments, and quality of life.
“Tokyo is working with diverse actors to halve greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and realize a zero-emission target by 2050, making advanced efforts to achieve these goals,” said Governor Koike. “At last year’s COP28 in Dubai, we announced our plan to establish a hydrogen exchange in Tokyo. This fiscal year, we will conduct the world’s first trial trading of green hydrogen in a market environment.”
Despite differing national contexts, the common theme from California and Japanese cities at COP29 is clear: local governments must lead in the climate movement. Through bold, localized action, cities worldwide can shape a sustainable future. Whether in Tokyo or Los Angeles, municipal governments have the power to inspire a resilient, green future.
Why pioneering local climate action beyond national policy
Pioneering local climate action offers cities across Japan the chance to drive change beyond national policy, building resilient and sustainable urban futures while reaping multiple benefits.
By investing in green economy jobs, cities create a foundation for economic growth. Green investments in renewable energy and sustainable infrastructure not only provide jobs but also attract businesses, boosting local economies and making cities vibrant centers for innovation. Strong local climate action also brings in much-needed climate funding. Cities that align their strategies with global climate goals can secure financing for essential projects, such as public transport improvements or energy-efficient housing, helping meet both climate and community needs.
These initiatives have significant health benefits, as cutting emissions reduces air pollution, leading to fewer respiratory issues and a healthier community. Clean energy and efficient public transportation enhance quality of life, contributing to cities that are healthier and more livable. Climate-friendly policies, such as expanding green spaces and developing public transportation, further enhance urban living, making cities more appealing to both residents and businesses.
Cities that lead in climate action also gain global recognition. Bold climate initiatives can enhance a city’s reputation as a forward-thinking, responsible leader in sustainability, potentially boosting tourism and attracting valuable partnerships. Local renewable energy sources, like solar and wind, contribute to energy security by reducing dependence on imported energy and providing stable, predictable costs—a significant advantage for any city.
In addition, cities in Japan are often vulnerable to typhoons, floods, and heatwaves. Investing in climate-resilient infrastructure and urban planning not only protects people and ecosystems but also strengthens cities’ ability to withstand natural disasters. As Japan moves toward more ambitious climate targets, early adopters of climate initiatives are positioning themselves as adaptable leaders, ready for future policy shifts. By pioneering climate action now, these cities lay the groundwork for a resilient, sustainable future.
You can watch the recording of the session here.
