I.Metshin: “The solution to climate change is a rethinking of the way of planning, building, managing and living in cities”

Ilsur Metshin, Kazan Mayor, President of the UN Advisory Committee of Local Authorities (UNACLA), took part in an online ministerial- level dialogue with local and regional authorities to strengthen coordination of the Paris Climate Agreement. He made a report in which he noted that cities today produce more than 60% of greenhouse gas emissions, so action to combat climate change at the level of regional and local authorities is of particular importance.

The meeting, which was held via videoconference, was attended by more than 200 representatives of relevant ministries and members of the World Organization United Cities and Local Governments.  (UCLG).

This year marks 5 years since the signing of the Paris Climate Agreement, Ilsur Metshin reminded. “Today, I am even more convinced that the Paris Agreement can and should become the main force that can consolidate actions to combat the causes of climate change and stop the growth of greenhouse gas emissions”, - he said.

Local and regional authorities are actively involved in combating climate change. Today, 70% of the world's population lives in cities. cities contribute significantly to climate change, since they consume 78% of the world's energy resources and produce more than 60% of greenhouse gas emissions, I.Metshin said.

Improving the ecology must begin with an awareness of the need to implement specific projects on site. Therefore, the solution to climate change is a rethinking of the way of planning, construction, management and living in our cities, I.Metshin notes. He suggested that in the current context of the coronavirus pandemic, ecotourism should be considered as an alternative recreation for the human population, as well as a measure to reduce emissions and reduce the impact on nature.

“To achieve a better future, it is necessary to cooperate and implement reforms at all levels and in all sectors of society, - the Mayor of Kazan said in conclusion. – It is very important to meet, exchange views and best practices on stopping climate change. Implementing the Paris Agreement points will help make our planet cleaner and the world a better place”.