Cities are central to economic growth and have a pivotal role to play in achieving global climate, nature and sustainable development goals. Yet this potential remains largely untapped as cities continue to face unprecedented environmental and social challenges. The current COVID-19 pandemic has affected cities deeply, and continues to be a barrier to sustainable and equitable development.
Through its Sustainable Cities programme, the Global Environment Facility (GEF) aims to promote integrated urban planning and implementation as a means to help cities address interrelated environmental degradation challenges. In collaboration with cities, national governments, international agencies, networks and various stakeholders, the GEF program is promoting innovative and impactful solutions for sustainable urban transformation.
Drawing from experiences of cities under the programme, this report looks at key urban sustainability elements and solutions, and discusses enablers to advance green recovery. It also highlights how city leadership, integrated approaches and collaboration between various actors are driving cities to continue their pursuit towards sustainability goals and tackle crises like COVID-19.