Weekly newsletter update - 8 March 2024

As the world grapples with the urgency of climate change, efforts to foster greener urban environments have taken centre stage. From promoting carbon transparency to advancing technology-driven projects and enhancing emissions reporting, recent developments reported by SmartCitiesWorld this week underscore the collective commitment to sustainability in the built environment. Initiatives spearheaded by organisations such as 奥雅纳 , IBM , and the UK Green Building Council (UKGBC) highlight the transformative potential of collaborative action in shaping a more resilient and sustainable future for cities worldwide.

At the inaugural UN-led buildings and climate summit in Paris, sustainable development consultancy Arup and the WBCSD – World Business Council for Sustainable Development have championed the cause of carbon transparency in the built environment. This call for action aligns with the 2030 Buildings Breakthrough Agenda, which seeks to make near-zero emissions and climate-resilient buildings the norm by 2030. By fostering greater awareness and accountability around carbon emissions, stakeholders can drive transformative change and accelerate the transition to sustainable building practices.

?Meanwhile, IBM has stepped up its commitment to urban climate adaptation with the announcement of up to $45 million in funding for technology-driven projects through the IBM Sustainability Accelerator. This initiative aims to empower government and non-profit organisations to advance city resilience through innovative solutions. By harnessing the power of technology, IBM seeks to address the complex challenges posed by climate change and support cities in building adaptive infrastructure that can withstand future environmental shocks.

Finally, the UK Green Building Council (UKGBC) is spearheading efforts to enhance accuracy and clarity in Scope 3 emissions reporting within the built environment. By launching new guidance on whole life carbon measurement and reporting, the UKGBC advocates for mandatory reporting backed by stronger regulation. This initiative aims to drive accountability throughout the value chain, ensuring that organisations take responsibility for indirect greenhouse gas emissions beyond their direct control. By adopting robust reporting practices, the built environment can achieve greater transparency and accountability in its efforts to mitigate climate change.

The development of greener urban environments is a multifaceted endeavour that requires collective action and innovative solutions. As cities continue to confront the challenges of climate change, these initiatives serve as a demonstration of the transformative power of collaboration and innovation in shaping a more sustainable future for urban communities worldwide.

Luke Antoniou , Senior editor, SmartCitiesWorld.net

Here is a round up of the rest of news we have shared this week:

1. Salford increases Lime e-scooter fleet as trip numbers soar
2. Glasgow tasks team to unlock private climate action finance
3. Phoenix uses sim game to educate residents on water usage
4. Dubai implements smart parking system to reduce congestion
5. DoE announces latest energy efficiency grant recipients
6. New 15-mile walking route 'Green Link Walk' launches in London
7. Salisbury to open carbon-friendly solar car park
8. Huawei and Unilumin collaborate on smart pole solution
9. Tallinn unveils tramway and urban streetscape revamp
10. NYC sets out roadmap to grow the city’s green economy
11. UK Green Building Council issues Scope 3 emissions guidance
12. FedEx Express Spain deploys first fully electric vehicles
13. NYC brings safe battery charging to e-bike delivery workers
14. Orlando unveils latest iteration of downtown “urban oasis”
15. Call for “carbon transparency” at first UN buildings summit
16. Entries invited for European Capital of Innovation Awards
17. Smart city pole supports continued 5G rollout
18. IBM commits up to $45m for urban climate adaptation
19. SPECIAL REPORT: How cities moved to the forefront of the climate agenda – and what comes next
20. OPINION: Cities Climate Action Summit 2024: unlocking climate finance?