Local Governments Driving Climate Solutions on the Global Stage
At the 29th UN Climate Change Conference (COP29) in Baku CEMR showcased the indispensable role of Local and Regional Governments (LRGs) in global climate action. Through advocacy, strategic dialogue, and direct engagement with Ministers, Governors, Parliamentarians, Multilateral Development Banks, and UN agencies, CEMR cemented its position as a key player in advancing sustainable urban development and combating climate change.
Local and Regional Governments: A Cornerstone of Climate Action
Local and regional governments are uniquely positioned to address climate challenges. Managing 68% of public climate investments, they are on the frontlines of adaptation and mitigation efforts. Yet, these governments often remain excluded from key international decision-making processes. At COP29, CEMR sought to change this by advocating for LRGs to be fully integrated as strategic partners in shaping climate policies.
CEMR also underscored the importance of multilevel governance. This approach, combining local, regional, and national collaboration, ensures that climate strategies are both inclusive and effective. By engaging in over 170 events, CEMR and the LGMA Constituency showcased how cities and regions lead innovative climate solutions, including sustainable infrastructure, green financing, and community resilience initiatives.
CEMR Delegation in Action
CEMR’s political leadership took centre stage during COP29. Marianne Overton, Vice President of CEMR, and Clifford Galea, a member of our Young Elected Officials Committee member, participated in high-profile sessions, emphasising local governments’ role in climate justice and finance. Key moments included:
- Panel on Multilevel and Multistakeholder Climate Solutions: Clifford Galea highlighted the urgency of channelling direct funds to local governments, stating, “Efficient climate action starts with empowering those closest to the communities impacted.”
- Roundtable on Financing Urban Climate Action: Marianne Overton called for innovative financial mechanisms to ensure accessible funding for sustainable urban projects and ecosystem restoration
“Efficient climate action starts with empowering those closest to the communities impacted.”
Advocating for Loss and Damage Response
One of the summit’s most critical topics was the establishment of an effective framework for addressing Loss and Damage. CEMR, together with the LGMA Constituency, endorsed the Call to Action on Loss and Damage, initiated by United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG). This initiative demands equitable resource distribution, North-South collaboration, and the inclusion of subnational governments in funding mechanisms. Notably, the call prioritizes the needs of marginalized communities and the integration of local knowledge into global climate strategies.
CEMR’s endorsement reflects its commitment to securing direct access to the Loss and Damage Fund for local governments, particularly in vulnerable regions. This advocacy reinforces the message that addressing climate crises requires collaboration at all levels of governance.
Why Local and Regional Governments Matter
The urgency of including LRGs in climate governance cannot be overstated. As the level of government closest to communities, they have the knowledge and capacity to implement tailored solutions that address local realities. This perspective aligns with the broader recognition at COP29 that achieving the Paris Agreement’s goals requires the active involvement of all governance levels.
Looking Ahead: COP of Cities
The outcomes of COP29 mark a significant step forward with greater recognition for the work of cities in the COP process, but the journey toward equitable climate governance is far from over. While COP29 is about to end, hope is there for cities to play a central role next year in Belem (Brazil). All traffic lights are green: “COP30 has to be the COP of the cities, because climate is central in connecting people”, said Ambassador Antonio Da Costa e Silva, chief international adviser at the Brazilian Ministry of Cities.
Let’s hope national leaders received the message.
Senior Advisor – Global Agendas, SDGs & Climate
