Cities hold the key to countering a range of environmental threats but need more financing and must be bettered integrated into multilateral governance structures.

That was the message delivered by governments, experts and other stakeholders on 23 February as they met in Nairobi, Kenya for the United Nations -supported Cities and Regions Summit.

The gathering explored how urban areas can become models of sustainability by using less energy, increasing the use of nature-based solutions, and cutting down on pollution, among other things. Conclusions from the summit will contribute to deliberations at the sixth session of the UN Environment Assembly (UNEA-6) that begins 26 February in Nairobi. 

Since cities are home to half the world’s people, their sustainability is considered crucial to addressing a triple planetary crisis of climate change, nature and biodiversity loss, and pollution and waste.

Read the full article at UNEP

About the Cities and Regions Summit

The Cities and Regions Summit is a recurring event that has taken place since UNEA-4 in 2019. The summit aims to bring together mayors and other representatives from cities and regions worldwide to engage in a collaborative dialogue on the pressing issues of climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution; and relay the voices of local and regional governments to the Member States participating in the UNEA.

About GenerationRestoration Cities

Generation Restoration Cities is a global initiative dedicated to reviving urban areas. The movement of over 20 UN- awarded cities focuses on restoring forests, wetlands, and waterways in cities to improve resilience and biodiversity. By sectors collaboration across sectors and regions, it aims to crate healthier and greener urban spaces. Generation Restoration Cities contribute to combating climate change and preserving ecosystems for future generations.