Three examples of how cities are boosting sustainability

With Cop28 now upon us, the microscope will be firmly on how cities are taking proactive steps to address environmental challenges and promote sustainability. In the run up to this year’s UN-led climate summit, SmartCitiesWorld has been reporting on a number of recent initiatives in Jakarta and Glasgow, as well as on a comprehensive report on climate change and health threats to cities, which highlight the global commitment to building a more resilient and eco-friendly urban future.

1. Greater Jakarta clean air project

In Jakarta, the Indonesian capital is collaborating with Bloomberg Philanthropies and Indonesian-led climate foundation ViriyaENB to enhance air quality in the Greater Jakarta area. The focus of this initiative is to bolster technical expertise and data research on air pollution while developing policy recommendations. The ultimate goal is to create a national blueprint that will set improved air quality standards for cities across Indonesia. With air pollution posing significant health risks and environmental challenges, this collaborative effort showcases a commitment to combatting these issues at a local and national level.

2. Glasgow green funding model

In Glasgow, preparations are underway for the city’s new green funding model, aimed at securing investments for a “climate-resilient future”. The plan involves seeking partnerships capable of delivering large-scale interventions in various sectors, including energy systems, transport, buildings, and biodiversity. Glasgow’s commitment to sustainability aligns with the broader global agenda set by the UN for Cop28, as cities worldwide recognise the urgency of implementing green initiatives to combat climate change.

3. The impact of climate change on health

Ahead of the first dedicated health day taking place as part of Cop28, this week saw the publication of a new report, titled Healthy & Resilient Cities, which emphasises the need for cross-sector collaboration to address climate and health threats faced by urban populations. Authored by Bupa, C40 Cities, the Lancet Countdown, and the Norman Foster Foundation, the report calls for health to be placed at the core of city design, architecture, and urban planning.

It outlines the increasing health risks associated with climate change, such as heat-related deaths, mental health issues, and the spread of infectious disease, and advocates for partnerships between healthcare professionals, governments, businesses, urban planners, engineers, and architects, working hand-in-hand with local communities to create healthier and more climate-resilient living environments.

As Cop28 unfolds in Dubai, we’ll see more initiatives and research come to the fore, which underscore the vital role cities play in the global fight against climate change. By prioritising elements like air quality, sustainable funding, and health-centred urban planning, cities are laying the groundwork for a more sustainable and resilient future, and contributing to the success of the upcoming pledges that their nations will make in Dubai over the next fortnight.