Introduction

Cities are at the forefront of global climate change efforts, contributing to approximately 70% of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions as of 2020, according to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).

IPCC, 2023: Sections. In: Climate Change 2023: Synthesis Report. Contribution of Working Groups I, II and III to the Sixth Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change [Core Writing Team, H. Lee and J. Romero (eds.)]. IPCC, Geneva, Switzerland, pp. 35–115, doi: 10.59327/IPCC/AR6-9789291691647  IPCC_AR6_SYR_LongerReport.pdf

Rapid urban population growth, land expansion, and the increasing demands of urban infrastructure are driving these emissions. By 2050,

Urban Development Overview (worldbank.org)

cities will house 70% of the global population, with The United Nations estimating that urban infrastructure equivalent to the size of the Swedish capital Stockholm will be constructed weekly until 2050, underscoring the importance of sustainable construction practices. This highlights the critical need for sustainable urban development practices.

Urban areas are major GHG contributors and vulnerable to climate extremes like heatwaves. IPCC

IPCC_AR6_WGIII_Chapter08.pdf

has emphasized that achieving net-zero emissions will require deep decarbonization and systemic transformation of cities. Addressing GHG emissions in buildings and urban infrastructure involves the integration of low-carbon materials, energy efficiency measures, and resilient design practices.

This policy brief focuses on key solutions to urban emissions, presented through the lens of the three primary sub-themes of the Sharm el-Sheikh mitigation ambition and implementation work programme (Mitigation Work Programme, MWP) for the second Global Dialogue of 2024: Spatial Planning and Low-Carbon Infrastructure, Electrification and Net-Zero Energy Sources, and Enhancing Carbon Storage through Green and Blue Infrastructure. The Nordic experience provides an exemplary framework for addressing these challenges.

Drawing on insight from Arup’s consultation with over 300 stakeholders across academia, municipalities, industry, and supply chains, the findings are summarized under “main findings.” Gaps, barriers and best practice in Nordic climate policies are presented alongside policy recommendations.

Photo: Yadid Levy/norden.org