With more than half of the world’s population now living in cities, mayors and community leaders are increasingly on the front lines of the consequences of climate change—rising sea levels, more severe weather events, and public health challenges. However big these risks are, there are also tremendous opportunities for cities, especially here in America, to implement meaningful climate solutions.
Despite the challenges, cities are stepping up and working with residents and community leaders to develop and implement climate solutions. These include increasing energy and water efficiency, investing in clean, mass transportation systems, and implementing solutions as simple as providing bicycle paths and walkways..
What make these efforts so important is that they provide better places for residents and families. Every climate solution yields positive health and quality of life benefits for communities. Investments in solar and wind create stable, well paying jobs for Americans. Increased energy efficiency and renewable power slash bills for families. Better transportation, cycling paths and walkways make commuting easier, and cuts traffic congestion.
These developments are underway in cities throughout the country, and the world. Mayors must collaborate with their community, residents and families, and leaders from cities across the country. By sharing experiences, climate action plans, successes and challenges, mayors can work to implement the strongest measures possible to improve climate and to empower their communities. Find out how to make a difference by joining with other leaders at Path to Positive Communities!
How cities around the world are protecting billions of people from climate change
By Chelsea Harvey | Mashable | February 29, 2016
Experts have often pointed out that, when it comes to fighting climate change, the world’s cities have both special risks and special opportunities. Climate change has the potential to bring down a hailstorm of consequences on urban areas, including flooding, public health risks and economic collapse.
So protecting the billions of people who live in these places — more than half the global population, and growing — is a big concern for world leaders.
But new research suggests that the global community may need to do more to make sure its most vulnerable populations are being protected.
