Guterre’s six points on saving the sick and rescuing the planet- translated for Cities

If you’re a city official who among the myriad of mundane tasks you are also in charge of your city’s international outreach, you will most probably have experienced an intense participation in communication and info sharing platforms during COVID19 times. I have more than 20 links of daily resources I check every day for new ideas that work and make sure in return here in #Tirana we also update our shared feed as well.

One would think that with more resources and certainly better motivation in a times of a global pandemic than mere city administrators, governments would have at least a dozen platforms of communication besides WHO.

Many have argued why this is not happening and/or possible and the jury is still out. The UNSG opinion piece of six points serve as good reference on where to start, if collaboration were to ever take place. But since it referrs to nations, I thought a translation in city-language or “Cityish” would be helpful.

1&2. Green Transition and no bail out for polluters:

Cityish: Promote sustainable transport ONLY and no more money to facilitate personal car usage.

3. Fiscal firepower must shift from grey to green:

Cityish: Don’t be afraid to go heavier on fiscal policies for businesses that make no effort in going green or share the sustainable city’s vision. If it is going to cost the city more because of those who do not participate then distribute the costs to those who create them in the first place.

4. Public funding flow to sustainable projects:

Cityish: Time for all city projects to be green (wood public buildings, no fossil fuel district heating, electric busses etc.)

5. The global financial system, when it shapes policy and infrastructure, must take risks and opportunities related to climate into account:

Cityish: As a result of the above, all the public backlash against the city, is simplya cost that should have already entered the books.. It is the same as complaining about the restaurant bill after you were served the menu and had your meal.

6. We must work together:

Cityish: Dear nations, cities are already working together since Paris 2015 at least, it’s time for you to catch up with us.