As cities face extreme weather events and growing inequality, nature-based solutions (NbS) can boost biodiversity, manage risks, and improve urban life. But financing remains the biggest hurdle. Turning ideas into action means rethinking how we plan, value, and invest in nature.

This blog explores two groundbreaking initiatives in Seoul that are paving the way for urban resilience. Firstly, the Metro Farms project is turning subway stations into cutting-edge vertical farms that harness the power of AI and IoT. These smart farms produce pesticide-free vegetables year-round, while also conserving water and reducing emissions. Plus, they play a crucial role in community education and support for vulnerable groups. Secondly, Seoul has implemented an AI-driven wildfire detection system that uses solar-powered sensors and LPWAN technology to monitor fire-prone areas in real-time. This enables swift action and enhances public safety. Collectively, these projects demonstrate how Seoul is utilizing advanced technology to address food security and climate challenges within its dynamic urban environment.

This op-ed guest article argues that youth participation in urban governance must move beyond symbolism to real power, especially in the Global South.

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.

Mostly not. And that's an issue, since one of the drivers of success for COP30 could be how well the NDCs 3.0 reflect and enable climate action in cities.

Born from the 1992 Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro, these three multilateral environmental agreements have shaped how the international community approaches global environmental challenges.

What if your coffee cup or takeout container didn’t end up in the trash, but went back into circulation, reducing waste, cutting emissions, and sparking local innovation and green jobs? Explore lessons from the Circular City Labs project.

Town Hall COPs are redefining what inclusive, multilevel climate governance looks like on the road to COP30.

Feeling the heat? So are our cities, and they’re taking action. On Heat Action Day, we spotlight how local and regional governments are rising to the challenge through people-centered solutions to beat the heat.

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.

As Türkiye braces for another summer of heatwaves and unpredictable storms, spaces like the Kadifekale community garden offer a green space that is not only public, but participatory.

Urban growth is shrinking natural habitats, but cities also hold the key to reversing biodiversity loss. As epicenters of change, local governments have the power to turn the tide. Here are 10 reasons why they should act now.

The Seoul Metropolitan Government, Republic of Korea, has implemented a comprehensive set of ambitious initiatives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, with a particular focus on transportation and building efficiency.

The launch of the LGMA National Coordination Group in Brasília marks a major milestone for climate federalism and multilevel governance in Brazil. Co-organized by ICLEI, the group brings together national ministries, local leaders, and civil society to ensure subnational voices help shape Brazil’s role at COP30.

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.

Who owns the land, and who gets to decide how it’s used? These questions are not just about property—they are about power, rights, and justice. Explore the vital connections between urban and rural areas and the role of gender justice in sustainable land management. 

During the ICLEI World Congress 2024 closing plenary on 21 June, Katja Dörner, Mayor of Bonn, Germany, and chair of the Climate Action Governance Portfolio for the ICLEI Global Executive Committee, called on urban leaders to proactively engage with their national governments and local government associations to enhance NDCs by 2025 and support CHAMP. National associations of local governments – under the leadership of ICLEI governance Members - in Germany, Brazil, and the U.S. have pledged to CHAMP, pioneering a global movement to push for stronger local involvement in national climate plans.

This piece was written by Anna Aaen, Deputy Mayor, City of Aalborg, Denmark, following the Copenhagen Climate Ministerial hosted by the city of Elsinore on 21-22 March 2024. It is a wonderful feeling to leave a meeting filled with energy and motivation. And it is even better when the meeting’s agenda is both significant and challenging – namely, global climate action at the local level.

Amazonian cities are diverse in opportunities and needs. The region’s biodiversity is amongst the world’s most important but its cities’ sustainability challenges are less well-known. These jurisdictions require financial support and capacity building to create sustainable, conservation-oriented, equitable, nature-based spaces with circular development. At the ICLEI World Congress, mayors from this region convened to amplify the voices of these unique cities.

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of nature in urban environments, providing solace and a sense of well-being during lockdowns. At the ICLEI World Congress, local and subnational governments, alongside WHO experts and NGOs, discussed the potential of Nature-based Solutions to address biodiversity loss and climate change while enhancing urban health.

In a world increasingly shaped by the climate emergency, cities are stepping into the forefront of resilience and sustainability efforts. During the ICLEI World Congress’ plenary “Our Changing World,” ICLEI Members and experts discussed how cities can leverage local initiatives to drive global impact, emphasizing the urgency of integrated approaches to mitigate environmental risks and build climate-resilient communities worldwide.

Integrating equity into climate mitigation is essential for creating sustainable cities that serve all residents, particularly marginalized communities. Initiatives like the INCLU:DE project and the Malmö Commitment on Inclusive and Equitable Communities exemplify successful strategies, promoting inclusive planning, inner-city collaboration, and equity-based methodologies.

Urban areas can restore ecosystems and improve residents' well-being. Cities like São Paulo, Puducherry, and Austin showcased innovative strategies for urban resilience and economic growth, proving that systemic change for a sustainable future is possible.

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.

By leveraging simulation, play, and interactivity to generate learning outcomes, serious games have been used in various sectors, including healthcare, military, and policymaking.

On 19 May 2025, ICLEI South America virtually promoted the second Meeting of the National Coordination Group of the Local...

With platforms like CitiesWithNature, the Berlin Urban Nature Pact, and metrics like the 3-30-300 rule, local and subnational governments are now better equipped than ever to track their impact and drive systemic change, proving that the path to a nature-positive future starts on the ground.

With lush forests, clean air, and a fast-growing green economy, Guiyang is proving that cities can thrive without costing the Earth. On 5–6 July, urban leaders will gather here for the Eco Forum Global Annual Conference to promote harmony between humans and nature, a journey that Guiyang has proudly led for years

The Malmö Commitment pioneers are exploring how targeted energy efficiency measures can support energy equity, demonstrating how these measures can contribute significantly to making housing more affordable for everyone.

In Izmir’s Pazaryeri and Imariye neighborhoods, women are on the frontlines of climate resilience, navigating floods, heatwaves, and economic challenges while leading solutions that strengthen entire communities.