Local action to drive sustainable tourism for the communities and nature
How can we ensure tourism not only thrives but also helps protect our planet?
Equitable Development Europe Food systems Nature-based Development Practical solutions Resilient Development
Urban resilience begins here: How women in Izmir are growing more than food
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.
10 reasons to promote urban biodiversity
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.
Measuring urban biodiversity progress and impact: From global frameworks to local tools
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.
Air quality Circular Development East Asia Procurement Resource access Resource security Zero emission Development
What does an ecological civilization look like? China’s Guiyang City is showing the way
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
Global sustainability agendas: 10 things we’re watching for in 2025
As we begin a pivotal year, many global north countries are facing elections and leadership changes, testing the world’s commitment to sustainable development. Last year, we witnessed several key global processes needing to continue into 2025 – like the biodiversity negotiations and the Plastics Treaty – or delivering a disappointing lack of ambition, such as the climate COP. Here are the ten things we’re watching for in 2025 regarding the global sustainability agendas.
Seizing the moment: Local action to address biodiversity loss and climate change
Building on the unprecedented COP28’s multilevel action momentum and with the upcoming COP16 and COP29 by year-end, cities and regions have an actual window of opportunity to amplify their voices in the global climate discussions. At the ICLEI World Congress 2024 plenary, “From Global to Local to Global: Shaping the Future of Sustainability,” mayors and climate leaders emphasized that now is the time for local and regional governments to push for unified, cross-government action to achieve the urgently needed transformations toward a sustainable world.
Nurturing community and planetary well-being
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.
Greening our urban tapestry: Collaboration and solutions for nature and biodiversity
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.
Launch of the Tokyo nature-based solutions action
Nature-based solutions (NbS) are one of several targets in the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, adopted at the 15th Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biodiversity held in December 2022.
Can you build an investment-ready climate project?
How can we build capacity for local and regional officials to access diverse funding sources for climate adaptation and mitigation…
In a historic move, nature takes center stage at COP27
COP27 emphasized the vital role of nature in addressing the climate crisis, marking the first time a full day was dedicated to nature and biodiversity, highlighting the need for integrated solutions and direct financing for local governments. This focus on nature precedes the Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) at COP15, underscoring the essential role of cities and regions in achieving global biodiversity targets and addressing climate change.