Global cities could shape new climate agenda

Subject

The role of cities in climate governance.

Significance

Last week the US State Department and UN Special Envoy for Climate Change and Cities Michael Bloomberg held a special summit of mayors from major global cities to share best practices on addressing climate change. Given past roadblocks stymieing inter-state climate negotiations, policymakers are pinning hopes on cities to sustain momentum ahead of the UN climate change summit (COP21) in December.

Impacts

• Limited fiscal resources will push cities to use their existing assets more efficiently, including through 'big data' approaches.
• Philanthropic initiatives, eg by the Rockefeller and Bloomberg foundations, will help spread climate mitigation and adaptation expertise.
• Despite being disproportionately affected by climate change, African cities' limited policy powers will constrain their adaptation.
• Strong regional identities will drive some subnational diplomatic efforts, notably those by Catalonian and Quebecois authorities.