The module provides clear, concise and up-to-date information for anybody interested in obtaining a general understanding of climate change in an urban context. It should be of particular interest to the following audiences:
- Civil servants in national ministries, provincial departments and local authorities responsible for developing and implementing urban development policies, programmes or projects and/or working on climate change mainstreaming;
- Managers in private sector and civil society organizations working on climate change and/or urban development;
- Faculty, researchers and students; and
- Interested citizens
This specialized module introduces the theme of climate change in urban areas. The world is becoming more and more urban, and therefore cities are important actors in addressing climate change. The module covers both how cities are affected by climate change and how cities are contributing to climate change. In addition, it looks at how climate change adaptation and mitigation can be considered in urban planning and identify concrete measures. Several examples of how cities can play a transformational role in addressing climate change are presented.
This specialized module has six sections:
1. Cities in the 21st century
2. Effects of climate change on cities
3. Cities as contributors to climate change
4. Integrating climate change adaptation and mitigation in urban planning
5. Urban climate change adaptation and mitigation in practice
6. Overview of major initiatives related to climate change and cities
After completing this specialized module, participants will be able to:
– Describe urban trends for the 21st century
– Describe the transformative role that cities can play in achieving green and climate resilient development
– Explain how urban areas are affected by, and contribute to, climate change
– Explain how climate change adaptation and mitigation can be considered in urban planning
– Identify specific adaptation and mitigation measures suitable for urban areas
