Greening Cities Partnership Members at the World Urban Forum 2024
Under the theme "It All Starts at Home: Local Activities for Sustainable Cities and Communities," WUF12 served as a platform to address the challenges of urbanization, climate resilience, housing crises, and sustainable development through the localization of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The event also featured approximately 300 side events, including workshops, panel discussions, and networking opportunities, all aimed at sharing best practices and inspiring innovative approaches to urban challenges.
Key Contributions from the Partnership Members
As part of this effort, the Croatian Ministry of Physical Planning, Construction, and State Assets (MPPCSA), a member and Action Leader of the Greening Cities Partnership, organized two key sessions:
- Panel Discussion: "Reconstruction After Disaster for Quality of Life"—co-organized with the Union for the Mediterranean, focusing on post-crisis rebuilding efforts. The session highlighted experiences from Croatia’s reconstruction after earthquakes, Slovenia’s response to floods, and Turkey’s efforts following the 2023 earthquakes.
- Workshop: "Green Urban Renewal Strategies - Mapping, Planning, Implementing, Financing, and Digitalising"—co-organized with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and Urbanex Ltd. This session explored innovative methods for integrating green infrastructure into urban renewal processes, emphasizing the role of digital tools and funding mechanisms in facilitating sustainable development.
The sessions provided an opportunity for participants to exchange experiences and solutions. Representatives from the City of Pontevedra, member and Action Leader of the Partnership, shared insights from their local initiatives their role in the Partnership developing an indicator system that helps local authorities monitor their urban greening progress.
“The workshop on Green Urban Renewal Strategies provided a unique opportunity to raise awareness about green infrastructure and urban sustainability. It facilitated engaging discussions with participants from around the globe, helping to build partnerships and share practical solutions for future challenges.”
Looking Ahead
The Greening Cities Partnership remains steadfast in its mission to advance urban greening efforts through collaboration, innovation, and knowledge-sharing. The lessons and connections forged at WUF12 will undoubtedly inform and enrich the Partnership’s ongoing work under the Urban Agenda for the EU.
