Join GCoM at the World Urban Forum

At the 12th World Urban Forum (#WUF12), the Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate & Energy (GCoM) will host and co-host a series of high-impact events on advancing urban climate action. From November 5-8, GCoM sessions will emphasize the critical role of cities in tackling climate challenges, offer hands-on learning opportunities, and foster collaboration across all levels of government and sectors for this shared ambition.

Beyond the sessions hosted by GCoM, city leaders and experts from across our alliance will be presenting and engaging throughout the week's programme. Our booth in Hall 4 also boasts an active programme, and will serve as a space to meet and network for the world's local leaders and other urban enthusiasts.

November 5, 2024: Local Solutions, Global Impact - The Role of Small and Medium Cities in Accelerating Climate Action

This event will highlight the role that small and medium-sized cities play in driving climate action, particularly through their strong connections to local communities and ecosystems. While often overlooked in global discussions, these intermediary cities, such as Bonn (France) and Quelimane (Mozambique), are leading climate initiatives that offer both mitigation and adaptation solutions, despite limited resources. Moderated by Firdaous Oussidhoum, UCLG Assistant Secretary General for Monitoring and Impact, this session will showcase innovative approaches and practical examples from small cities that are making a big impact.

November 6, 2024: Interactive Training - Understanding Climate Risks & Vulnerabilities to Plan for Climate Change Adaptation

This hands-on training session will equip participants with practical tools to assess climate risks and vulnerabilities at the local level, helping cities develop agile adaptation strategies. Experts like Paula Bezerra from the European Commission's Joint Research Centre and Eleni Myrivili from UN Habitat will guide participants through interactive exercises, including the use of Earth Observation data. The session is tailored for cities committed to developing Climate Action Plans that align with global sustainability goals.

November 6, 2024: Towards a Special Report of the IPCC & Findings of the Innovate4Cities Conference

In this session, GCoM will lead discussions on closing the critical data gaps needed to enhance urban climate solutions. Building on the momentum of the 2024 Innovate4Cities Conference, the session will focus on how cities can leverage research and strategic foresight to drive climate resilience. GCoM's Head of Research, Benjamin Jance, will join panelists, including IPCC Vice-Chair Diana Ürge-Vorsatz and Mayor Cam Guthrie of Guelph, to explore the intersection of innovation, data, and urban climate action.

November 7, 2024: Fostering Climate Action at the Local Level - Learning from Ambitious Cities and Strong Partnerships

This session will explore how cities can turn their climate plans into investment-ready projects. Real-world case studies, including examples from the City Climate Finance Gap Fund, will illustrate how cities can overcome barriers to accessing climate finance. Speakers from national and local governments, such as Mr. Beng Hong Socheat Khemro from Cambodia and Augustin Maria from the World Bank, will share insights on how multi-stakeholder partnerships can support local climate initiatives.

November 8, 2024: Academia Roundtable - In the Eye of the Storm: Tackling the Urban Housing Crisis in the Face of Climate Change

This roundtable will address the interconnected challenges of the urban housing crisis and climate change, exploring how research and data can guide sustainable housing policies. Drawing on major reports, including the World Cities Report 2024 and the IPCC's Special Report on Cities and Climate Change, this session will bring together academics, urban planners, and policymakers to develop strategies that balance housing affordability with environmental sustainability.

GCoM Booth - Your Hub for Climate Action Collaboration

Throughout the week at WUF12, be sure to visit the GCoM booth, a central hub for networking, knowledge exchange, and exploring city-led climate solutions. Whether you're a mayor, urban planner, or passionate advocate for sustainable cities, the booth offers a chance to connect with global partners, discover innovative approaches, and explore collaborative opportunities.

The GCoM booth will also feature a dynamic programme of events designed to dive deeper into pressing climate challenges. Highlights include a session on November 6 with UCLG MEWA and Covenant of Mayors Mediterranean (CoM Med), led by Myriam Makdissi, CoM Med Key Expert, Communication and Networking, focusing on regional climate resilience efforts. Aldo Treville from the Joint Research Centre will also host a Climate Fresk workshop, an engaging way to learn about climate science and collaborative solutions. Emilie Becault from CDP-ICLEI will lead a discussion on city climate reporting, while a series of 'Bursting the Bubble - Climate Conversations' will offer unfiltered discussions on urban climate ambitions.

For cities looking to advance their climate projects, don't miss the Urban Transitions Mission (UTM) Finance & Funding Helpdesk, led by UTM Project Manager Nicola Iezza, available throughout the week. On November 7, Helena Monteiro will present the GCoM Gap Fund, offering insights into early-stage project preparation and how cities can access support to make their initiatives investment-ready.

If you haven't already signed up for the World Urban Forum, do so before 30 October here.

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