From Lyon to Paris: Regions and Municipalities as Catalysts for COP21 Success
As the world prepared for the Paris Climate Summit (COP21), Europe’s municipalities and regions highlighted their crucial role in delivering climate action. Close to citizens and equipped with the political legitimacy to act, they are key to building sustainable and low-carbon societies.
Local governments are already leading by example. Initiatives such as the Covenant of Mayors, with thousands of signatories, show that ambitious commitments like reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 40% by 2030 are achievable. These successes underline that global climate agendas can only succeed with strong local engagement.
CEMR and its partners call for genuine recognition of subnational governments in international negotiations. This means giving them a seat at the COP discussion table, integrating their role in EU and national strategies, and ensuring appropriate political and financial frameworks.
Decentralised cooperation is also vital. Through networks such as PLATFORMA, municipalities and regions share expertise with partners worldwide, ensuring that climate action is effective on the ground and adapted to local realities.
From Lyon to Paris, towns and regions proved they are catalysts for global climate success. Recognising and empowering them is essential for the achievement of the Paris Agreement and a sustainable future.
For more information, contact:
Senior Advisor – Global Agendas, SDGs & Climate
