Cities worldwide are increasingly suffering the effects of climate-related disasters, such as floods, droughts, sea-level rise, heat waves, landslides, and storms. At least 130 port cities with over one million inhabitants are expected to be affected by coastal flooding and the one billion people in urban informal settlements are, particularly at risk.
Creating more sustainable, climate-resilient societies involves addressing a range of issues including poverty reduction, ensuring basic services livelihoods, the provision of accessible, affordable, and adequate housing, investing in infrastructure, upgrading informal settlements, and managing ecosystems. Successful, well-governed cities greatly reduce climate-related risks for their populations.
This year’s World Cities Day general theme: Better City, Better Life, and this year’s sub-theme: Adapting Cities for Climate Resilience.