The climate is changing and people are accelerating this natural phenomenon by burning fossil fuels, wasting energy and other valuable resources. It is time to react - quickly and effectively - to mitigate the human impact on climate change by drastically reducing greenhouse gas emissions, such as carbon dioxide (CO₂) and methane (CH₄). We need local climate action right now.

Cities and towns are busy integrating climate protection into all walks of life and in all sectors, providing direction and engaging their citizens - moving forward together towards a low carbon society.

Effective approaches – from advocacy to action

ICLEI has been involved in local climate action for more than 20 years. Current highlights include:

• Cities for Climate Protection (CCP) Campaign, a framework supporting community action.
  
  
• ICLEI as a Supporting Structure to the Covenant of Mayors.
  
  
• The Procura+ Sustainable Procurement Campaign, a framework supporting local government and public authority action.
  
  
• Mobilisation, information and advocacy – LG Action and the international Local Government Climate Roadmap.
  
  
• Focus on sustainable energy:
  • Local Renewables, the local generation and use of renewable energy.
  • Integrated bio-energy planning - MAKE-IT-BE.
  • SESAC addresses advanced sustainable energy solutions.
  • Support for Local Energy Action Plans in Sustainable NOW.
    
    
• Focus on sustainable mobility and transport:
  
  • Bicycle audits through BYPAD.
  • Sustainable Urban Mobility - CIVITAS Initiative.
  • Biofuels for transport - Biofuel Cities European Partnership.

Working together

ICLEI's European members are engaged in climate protection. Many cities have been leading the way for decades, working with ICLEI to build a knowledge base and share experiences. Others are just starting up. In the north, south, east, and west of Europe, local communities are engaging - from Burgas (Bulgaria) to Berlin (Germany), from Stockholm (Sweden) to Rome (Italy). These cities and many others are sharing news through ICLEI’s CCP Campaign. Check our news page for updates on these activities.

Our world, our future

Connect with the communities involved in climate protection and improving their community resilience. Sign up to our European climate and energy mailing list, and join our CCP Campaign today – let’s move forward together.

More information

Go to our search or contact maryke.van.staden@iclei.org.