A new chapter for climate federalism in Brazil: Lessons and legacy from the LGMA National Coordination Group for COP30

A new chapter for climate federalism in Brazil: Lessons and legacy from the LGMA National Coordination Group for COP30

ByBarbara Riedemann

Brazil’s pioneering multilevel coordination effort is reshaping multilevel governance and collaboration at home and inspiring global pathways. From the beginning, the intention of this group was to bring climate federalism to life: National, state, and local actors aligning positions, sharing knowledge, and building a unified narrative that could travel from the streets of Brazilian cities to the negotiation rooms of the UNFCCC.

Working with youth across the world: Cities powering inclusive climate action

Working with youth across the world: Cities powering inclusive climate action

ByBarbara Riedemann

Recognizing youth as powerful drivers of change, local and regional governments are creating meaningful spaces for their voices, leadership, and ideas. This International Youth Day, discover how ICLEI Members are actively involving young people in shaping inclusive and impactful climate action.

Can local climate dialogues really shape national climate action? The Town Hall COP Initiative is trying to prove they can

Can local climate dialogues really shape national climate action? The Town Hall COP Initiative is trying to prove they can

ByBarbara Riedemann

ICLEI’s Town Hall COP Initiative is emerging as a powerful model to make climate action truly locally led, transformation-oriented, and, most importantly, nationally relevant.

Town Hall COPs gain traction with global reach and national endorsement

Town Hall COPs gain traction with global reach and national endorsement

ByBarbara Riedemann

Since launching in early 2025, the Town Hall COP Initiative has gained momentum, with 70+ local governments and civil society organizations registered to host an event. Seven cities in six countries have already hosted their events, and South Africa became the first national government to officially endorse the initiative. Read on for the latest updates on how local voices are shaping climate action ahead of COP30.

From Bonn to Belém: How national commitments and cities together can deliver a climate-ready future

From Bonn to Belém: How national commitments and cities together can deliver a climate-ready future

ByBarbara Riedemann

Under the umbrella of Daring Cities 2025 Bonn Dialogues, this event highlighted the importance of partnerships to deliver not just ambitious plans, but real climate action for a thriving future.

The Kaohsiung–ICLEI Community of Practice: When bold cities collaborate

The Kaohsiung–ICLEI Community of Practice: When bold cities collaborate

ByBarbara Riedemann

The Kaohsiung–ICLEI Climate Neutral and Smart Cities Community of Practice delivered its first in-person capacity-building workshop series, providing strategic tools to advance urban transformation through circular development and agenda-serving innovation.

On the road to COP30: Reflecting on how multilevel action can strengthen national climate plans

On the road to COP30: Reflecting on how multilevel action can strengthen national climate plans

ByBarbara Riedemann

Looking ahead to COP30, what cities and regions do in advance of this global climate summit may matter more than the conference itself. On the road to Belém, local and regional governments have a unique opportunity to engage with their national governments, shift the trajectory of the climate emergency, and push for inclusive, multilevel climate action.

Ten ingredients to stir up urban agrifood systems transformation

Ten ingredients to stir up urban agrifood systems transformation

ByBarbara Riedemann

What happens when around 100 stakeholders from five continents come together to discuss urban agrifood systems transformation? In September 2024, the Urban Agrifood Systems Global Workshop—co-organized by FAO and ICLEI—turned FAO headquarters in Rome into a vibrant marketplace of ideas. Check out the outcomes.