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1. 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 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,
 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 not only major GHG contributors but are also highly vulnerable to climate extremes like heatwaves. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC
) 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 report focuses on key solutions to urban emissions, presented through the lens of the 2024 dialogue of the Sharm el-Sheikh mitigation ambition and implementation work programme (Mitigation Work Programme, MWP) for COP29 in line with the overarching theme of “Cities; Building and Urban System” and its three primary sub-themes: Spatial Planning and Low-Carbon Infrastructure, Electrification and Net-Zero Energy Sources, Enhancing Carbon Storage through Green and Blue Infrastructure, and Circular Economy in the Built Environment. While circular economy practices are not explicitly outlined in the MWP, their inclusion reflects the increasing recognition of their importance in promoting resource efficiency, waste reduction, and sustainable urban development. The Nordic experience, as shared during COP29, provides an exemplary framework for addressing these challenges.
Presented at COP29, this report draws on insights from a comprehensive consultation process funded by the Nordic Council of Ministers and conducted by Arup. Engaging over 500 stakeholders across academia, municipalities, industry, and supply chains, this process involved a series of workshops designed to capture a diverse range of views. This report emphasizes the unique Nordic context, detailing both the challenges and opportunities in implementing sustainable urban practices.
The insights and recommendations presented reflect participant contributions, though they do not necessarily represent the views of the Nordic Council of Ministers or member governments. The Nordic Council of Ministers, intergovernmental forum, complement the Nordic Council, inter-parliamentary forum, to promote cooperation among Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Greenland, The Faroe Islands and Åland, aligning with the Nordic Vision 2030
: to become the most sustainable and integrated region in the world by 2030. Representatives from all five countries participated in the project’s steering group led by the Nordic Visions’ project Climate transition in the Nordics and the Working Group for Climate and Air under the Nordic Council of Ministers (NCM), contributing contacts, relevant documents, and feedback. Several of the steering group members also participated in the focus groups.

1.1 Report Structure Overview

This report is structured around four main areas:
  1. Spatial Planning and Low-Carbon Infrastructure
  2. Electrification and Switching to Net-Zero Emission Resources
  3. Enhancing Carbon Storage through Green and Blue Infrastructure
  4. Circular Economy in the Built Environment
These topic areas were dictated by the 2024 Mitigation Work Programme (MWP) for COP29, with the additional inclusion of considerations regarding the circular economy. Each section provides a comprehensive examination of critical components related to the transition toward sustainable urban development in the Nordic countries.
  1. Main Findings
    Each section begins with the main findings relevant to the topic area, highlighting current trends, challenges, and insights derived from research and expert opinions.
  2. Opportunities and Best Practices
    This chapter offers an overview of best practices and opportunities for implementing sustainable strategies at both national and local levels. It addresses key areas such as spatial planning, electrification, and carbon storage, showcasing successful initiatives and potential pathways for advancement.
  3. Main Barriers
    The report discusses the significant challenges cities face when transitioning to low-carbon infrastructure. Key barriers include balancing urban growth with environmental protection, misconceptions about the quality of circular practices, and fragmented regulations. It emphasizes the need for collaborative approaches, robust Life-Cycle Analysis (LCA), and cohesive strategies to overcome these obstacles.
  4. Recommendations
    Tailored recommendations are presented to enhance the development and implementation of climate policies in the Nordic countries. These are organized by the levels of governance – national, regional, and local – highlighting the necessity for coordinated action to achieve deep decarbonization and meet the unique needs of various communities.
By following this structure, the report aims to provide a holistic view of the challenges and opportunities in advancing sustainable urban development while contributing to the overarching goals of the MWP for COP29.
vintervaeg-1200px.jpgPhoto: Mads Schmidt Rasmussen/norden.org
Nordic Council of Ministers I www.norden.org/publications I pub@norden.org