The Winds of Change: How COP 28 Empowered Local Governments in Climate Action

A New Era for Cities and Climate Change

Earlier this month, I was honored to participate in the UN Climate Summit in Dubai (COP 28). Cities are central to my policy work, research, teaching, and advocacy. Over the past 25 years, I have worked to unlock human potential by building the future today. After all these years, a pressing question continues to guide my endeavors: "What can I do with what I have, where I am?" This query, a call to more local action, has driven my efforts with Cities for All , the United Nations-backed Global Compact, and the Campaign for Inclusive and Accessible Cities. This global effort seeks to incentivize and transform 100 cities to be more inclusive, accessible, and resilient by 2030. We’ve mobilized over 30 cities to take action and have partnered with some of the world’s leading networks that are amplifying the work of cities and positioning cities and local governments as the primary actions behind solving some of the world’s most pressing problems.?

Only by taking stock can we see how far we have come in empowering and repositioning cities in global governance. We have been working city networks to center cities as legitimate actors to advance the Sustainable Development Goals, and now, with a recent and unprecedented move, the COP meetings in Dubai put cities on the center stage. Here are some of the most important developments regarding cities and climate change that you should be aware of.?

The Local Action Climate Summit: A Groundbreaking Initiative

At the heart of the UN Climate Summit in Dubai, an unprecedented event unfolded within the official COP28 framework. For the first time, the Local Action Climate Summit brought together local leaders on a global stage. With the participation of over 200 mayors, this summit marked a pivotal moment in climate governance.

The highlight was the launch of the Coalition for Multilevel Partnership for Climate Change (CHAMP). Endorsed by 70 member states, CHAMP embodies a revolutionary idea. It aims to enhance cooperation across different levels of government in the planning, financing, implementation, and monitoring of climate strategies. This includes Nationally Determined Contributions, National Adaptation Plans, and other crucial frameworks.

The Creation of the Loss & Damage Fund

Another landmark achievement at COP28 was the establishment of the Loss & Damage Fund. Initially announced with a modest budget, it saw a significant increase over two weeks. For the first time in climate policy history, the resolution delineating the Fund recognized subnational governments as eligible recipients. This is more than just financial support; it's a recognition of the critical role local governments play in climate action.

The Second Urban Ministerial Meeting: Bridging Leaders and Civil Society

The Second Urban Ministerial Meeting, held on December 6 and sponsored by the COP Presidency and UN-Habitat, marked another historic moment. Attended by 40 ministers, over 100 mayors, and hundreds of civil society supporters, this event focused on Multilevel Action, Urbanization, Built Environment, and Transport. It was a rare instance where local leaders had the ear of 40 government ministers, creating a palpable sense of optimism and collaboration.

Catalyzing Financial Support for Cities

A Tripartite Commission: Mayors, Financial Experts, and Academics

The commission co-chaired by the Mayor of Paris, Jeff Sachs, and another mayor, is a testament to the increasing recognition of cities' roles in climate action. This commission, with its blend of mayors and financial experts, is exploring novel ways to funnel resources into urban climate initiatives.

The Three Task Forces

1. Multilateral Banks Reform: The City Financial Leadership recently released a report, indicating a shift in how multilateral banks view and support urban climate initiatives.

2. Enhancement of Funds to Cities: This task force focuses on increasing the flow of climate finance directly to cities, recognizing their frontline role in climate action.

3. Private Sector Funding: Exploring innovative ways to leverage private sector investments in urban climate resilience.

The Role of Subcommittees

The commission also includes subcommittees focusing on resilience, geographic contextual relationships, and advocacy. These subgroups underscore the multifaceted nature of urban climate challenges and solutions.

Putting Together the Pieces: A Philosophical Perspective for Immediate Local Action

Reflecting on the outcomes of COP28 and looking forward to the next climate summit, I am reminded of Henry David Thoreau's poignant words: "What's the use of a fine house if you haven't got a tolerable planet to put it on?" This sentiment echoes in the backdrop of the summit's decisions, emphasizing that local governments are not mere administrative bodies; they are the guardians of our collective future, the stewards of the environments we inhabit.

Our work at The Victor Pineda Foundation and our impact advisory firm World Enabled have helped usher in tremendous changes to how cities function. Over the last 20 years, I have seen these developments in fostering more inclusive approaches to global governance as pivotal strides forward. Beyond policies and funding, the essence lies in empowering communities to architect their destinies in the face of climate challenges by being active agents in forging a more inclusive and sustainable future for all of us.

The path ahead, centered around inclusive climate action, is undeniably challenging. Yet, the progress made at COP28 equips cities, local governments, and all of us as integral stakeholders with enhanced capabilities to spearhead the climate change battle. The global community is attentive, and history will indelibly record our daily decisions and actions. The question remains: What actions will you take, and how will you magnify your impact within your city?

Stay engaged with the Victor Pineda Foundation and learn more at www.pinedafoundation.org and www.worldenabled.org .

Short Bio: Dr. Victor Santiago Pineda

Dr. Victor Santiago Pineda is a renowned advocate, scholar, and educator recognized for his influential work in urban planning and disability rights. Holding a faculty position at the University of California, Berkeley, Dr. Pineda has inspired over 800 students through his innovative course, "Building the Inclusive City." His expertise lies in exploring the multifaceted nature of urban environments, focusing on the intersection of community, governance, and policy in shaping urban living.

As the Executive Chairman of The Victor Pineda Foundation and the impact advisory firm World Enabled, Dr. Pineda's work extends beyond academia into practical, transformative action. He is dedicated to championing inclusive urban development and ensuring that cities worldwide become accessible and equitable for all. His commitment to these causes has positioned him as a leading voice in advocating for inclusive and sustainable cities in the face of climate change challenges.