TRANSFORMING COMMITMENTS INTO ACTIONICLEI World Congress 2024
Outcomes report18 - 21 June 2024 | São Paulo, Brazil

Publisher
ICLEI – Local Governments for Sustainability e.V.
Kaiser-Friedrich-Strasse 7, 53113 Bonn, Germany
https://iclei.org/

Copyright©2024 ICLEI - Local Governments for Sustainability e.V. All rights reserved. The ICLEI World Secretariat holds the copyright ofthis publication, including text, analyses, logos and layout designs. Requests to reproduce or to quote material in part or in fullshould be sent to media@iclei.org. ICLEI encourages use and dissemination of this report, and permission to reproduce thismaterial without modification will usually be permitted without charge for non-commercial use.

Citation
This publication should be cited as: “ICLEI - Local Governments for Sustainability, 2024. Transforming Commitments into Action:
ICLEI World Congress 2024 Outcomes Report, 18 - 21 June 2024, São Paulo, Brazil."Primary Authors
Ariel Dekovic
Barbara Riedemann

Braulio Díaz Castro
Fernanda Gouveia Fonseca

Joseph Wladkowski
Matteo Bizzotto

Pourya Salehi
Vinicius GuimarâesAndrew Walls
Angelica Greco
Annika Doerrhoefer
Anne Marie Cleary Rauker
Amy Jones
Caroline Dickey
Carol Torres Limache
Christian Offermanns

David Corbett
Jake Leech
Jadon Basilevac
Jiwon Lee
Kanak Gokarn
Madison Hodges
Marisa Kellogg
Yunus Arikan

Bobby Wenger
Eduardo Azevedo
Elysama Andrade
Fernanda Amorim
Gino Van Begin
Javier Reyes
Kale Roberts
Letícia Borges

Luz Camacho
Luiz Gustavo Pinto
Marcus Soares
Philippe Romero
Rocío Pascual

Translation

DesignJhonatan Freitas

Olga Tokareva

Contributors

The ICLEI World Congress 2024 TeamICLEI World Secretariat Global Events TeamAlex Lozano-Morales
Catalina Schlienger

Giulia Salvaterra
Ipek Genc

Johanna Buchmann-Duck
Joseph Wladkowski

Laura Trujillo
Rebeca Soares

Fernanda Gouveia
Fernanda Freitas
Gabriela Veit Barreto
Gil Scatena
Giovana Oliveira Andrade
Gustavo Barboza
Iris Coluna
Isadora Buchala
Jamile Soares da Silva
Jazmín Restrepo
Jéssica Santos
Jhonathan FreitasJoão Leme
Julia Finotti
Keila Ferreira

Leticia Sibinelli
Lorena Ruiz
Lorena BulhõesLuiz Gustavo Pinto
Lucía Demarchi
Luz Camacho
Luisa Acauan
Luisa Martinelli
Maíra Colares
Marcus Soares
Maria Caldas
María Alejandra Palacio
María Julia Reyna
Mauro Pérez Toscani
Marília Israel

Nathalia Correa
Pedro Salviano
Rocío NovelloRocío Pascual
Rodrigo Perpétuo
Rodrigo Corradi
Rodrigo Nehara
Sergio Aranguren
Tatiana Ramos
Tiago Mello
Victor Lopes
Vinícius Guimarães
Vitoria Vivian

Daniel Araujo Machado da Silva
Estela Felipe de Souza Rocha
Fernanda Silva de Morais
Fernanda Yumi Masuki
Giovanna Leme

Guilherme Novaes Silva Pinto
Izabelle Novicki
Kátia Maria Chaves Prado
Paola Souza
Priscila Cretelli Belezia

Rayana Yukari Fachinetti Inomato
Stella Paterson de Carvalho Pontes
Thaís Coffani Costa
Thais Moreira Santos
Vítor Soares Miceli

ICLEI South America World Congress Team
Alejandro González Valencia
Aline Cardoso
Ana Bárbara Zanella
Angie Tatiana Ramos Leon
Armelle Cibaka
Bianca Cantoni
Braulio Díaz
Camila Segovia Rodriguez
Cindy Paola Cano
Clara MitchellCláudio Maretti
Eduardo Azevedo
Elysama Andrade
Felipe Jukemura
Fernanda Amorim

Event Volunteers
Ana Laura da Costa Santos
Angélica Dino Figueiredo
Bianca Frota Torres
Camila Segovia
Bruna Morales

Introduction
Every three years, ICLEI hosts the ICLEI World Congress to showcase
how local and regional governments across our network are advancing
sustainable urban development worldwide.
The ICLEI World Congress connects local and regional government leaders andrepresentatives with their peers and strategic partners, and provides a platform fordiscussions that will inform and enhance their work going forward.
The ICLEI World Congress is a platform to highlight how local and regional governments
can collectively push for action and policy change that better positions local andregional governments to reach their potential. The Congress demonstrates the impact
and potential of taking action together and demanding more effective global andnational policy.

Introduction

The power of a network

Our changing world

Spotlight
on South America

From global
to local to global

WATCH THE RECAP ICLEI World Congress 2024

A sustainable andequitable Congress

Accelerating forwardAdditionally, as a content-rich event, the ICLEI World Congress facilitates learning andidea sharing, ultimately conveying what sustainability looks like on the ground andwhat it really means for those who transform concepts and goals into policy and action.
Technical staff and policymakers in city and regional governments get exposed to new
and alternative ideas that they are able to bring back to their local contexts.
The ICLEI World Congress 2024, hosted by the City of São Paulo, Brazil, was a pivotal
gathering focused on advancing sustainable urban development and equitable
adaptation to local and regional challenges. Running from 18 - 21 June, this year’s
Congress delivered a journey of reflection and forward-looking vision, emphasizing
the critical challenges and opportunities facing cities, towns, and regions due to rising
global risks and changes.

INTERVIEW Mayor Ricardo Nunes of São Paulo,
Brazil, on the Congress

Over 1500 attendees, including more than 100 mayors, from 95 countries came together
to exchange with and inspire one another on the best practices in sustainable urban
development.
Central themes included leveraging ICLEI’s strategic pathways for sustainability,
understanding the unique role of regions like the Amazon region in global biodiversity
and sustainability, and exploring the impact of climate and sustainability at all levels ofgovernment. Through these thematic lenses, the Congress aimed to inspire, equip, andmobilize local and regional governments towards a sustainable and resilient future.
The theme of the Congress in 2024 was Transforming commitments into action. We
explored how leaders can enable action despite the ever-changing contexts in which
they must operate, ensuring continued implementation of sustainable development
policies that work toward transforming our systems and achieving our targets andcommitments.

Introduction

The power of a network

Our changing world

Spotlight
on South America

From global
to local to global

A sustainable andequitable Congress

Accelerating forwardIn 2025, the world will turn its eyes to Brazil for UNFCCC COP30 in Belém, a critical
moment in the global climate agenda. The ICLEI World Congress 2024 helped to deepen
the dialogue on the ongoing global processes in the areas of climate, nature, andbroader sustainability and highlight the relevance of these processes on the local andregional levels, underscoring the critical element of multilevel governance to achievethese broader global goals. Additionally, the ICLEI network also had the chance toweigh in on the IPCC Special Report on Cities and Climate Change during the seventhtriennial Global Research & Innovation Symposium at the Congress, and offered an
unparalleled chance to gain insights from leading IPCC experts on the objectives andcontent of the Special Report.

WATCH THE OPENING CEREMONY ICLEI World Congress 2024

Cities, towns and regions in the ICLEI Network are united on a shared journey towards
a sustainable and equitable world. The ICLEI World Congress 2024 provided a unique
opportunity for the ICLEI network of over 2500+ cities, regions, and towns, from
125+ countries across the world, to gather and share practical knowledge that candrive local action for zero emission, nature-based, equitable, resilient and circularurban development.

ICLEI World Congress 2024 in numbers
1500+ attendees from 95 countries 100+ mayors and governors
Supported by 150+ ICLEI Staff and 20 local volunteers
A special thanks to our volunteers: 20 local volunteers were selected to support the ICLEIWorld Congress 2024 main activities. These included: preparing reports for the plenary
and thematic sessions; translating Portuguese, English and Spanish; organizing event
logistics; providing support for side event accreditation; and other activities to support
session leaders and congress participants. Our volunteers were key in the success of
the Congress.

Introduction

The power of a network

Our changing world

Spotlight
on South America

From global
to local to global

A sustainable andequitable Congress

Accelerating forward

SECTION I

The power of a network
With more than 2500 cities, towns and regions from around the world
engaged in our work, ICLEI is the largest network of local and regional
governments advancing sustainable development worldwide.
ICLEI is driven by our Members. They shape our organization, and with theirleadership, we stand as a united global force of local and regional governments
committed to sustainability. Every three years, we invite representatives from ICLEI’s
Member cities, towns and regions to stand for governance elections to help guidethe direction of our network.

Introduction

The powerof a network

Our changing world

Spotlight
on South America

From global
to local to global

MORE ABOUT OUR
GOVERNANCE STRUCTURE
 LEARN

A sustainable andequitable Congress

Accelerating forwardAt the ICLEI World Congress 2024, we introduced our newly elected leaders - the ICLEI
Council, who will serve for the next three years - and the new ICLEI Presidium, who havetaken up the mantle to lead our network in achieving our goals at home and globally.
While ICLEI uses the full power of our network to ensure that local sustainability delivers on
the goals and aspirations of the global sustainable development agenda, we continue toextend and measure our impact on the ground through programs, projects and initiatives.
Our flourishing network represents small, large, and fast-growing cities, vast
metropolitan areas, provinces and regions. ICLEI, as a network, IS the diversity of theurban world and the challenges and opportunities that come with it.
Through our São Paulo Strategic Vision 2024 - 2030, released during the Congress on
19 June 2024, local and regional governments of the ICLEI network set a way towards
the transformation to sustainable development. This vision, set forth in the voice of
our local and regional governments, creates a picture of what is needed for a truly
sustainable urban world.

Introduction

The powerof a network

Our changing world

Spotlight
on South America

From global
to local to global

WATCH THE FULL PLENARY

 The power of a network
MEDIA
SPOTLIGHT

Mayor of Malmö elected president of ICLEI
Mayor of Malmö has been chosen to lead
ICLEI – the largest network of cities and regions
committed to sustainability.

A sustainable andequitable Congress

Accelerating forward

CONGRESS OUTCOME

The ICLEI São Paulo Strategic Vision 2024 - 2030 released
The Power of Our Network in a Changing World - ICLEI’s strategic vision for the next
three years - sets a way towards the transformation to sustainable development. ICLEI
is and has always been committed to creating global change through work that starts
on the local level. Together, we must demonstrate visionary leadership, lead by example,
share our knowledge actively and openly and speak with a united voice. Our ICLEI São
Paulo Strategic Vision 2024 - 2030 is a critical part of that promise.
CONGRESS OUTCOME

The 2024 report on our activities, Our network of impact, released
Every year, ICLEI undertakes hundreds of activities, alongside our local and regional
government Members, to deliver sustainable development through our five pathwaysof zero emission, nature-based, equitable, resilient and circular development. Explore
our activities and impact in this report, produced for the ICLEI World Congress 2024.
CONGRESS OUTCOMEICLEI Gender Declaration announced
ICLEI’s new Gender Declaration marks a significant commitment to embedding gender
equity into the organization’s core mission. This declaration will serve as a guiding
framework for ICLEI’s network, focusing on empowering women, addressing genderspecific challenges, and fostering inclusive governance and planning. The announcement
highlighted the critical need for gender-responsive urban planning to ensure equitablebenefits for all genders, emphasizing the importance of inclusive and equitable urban
development practices.

Introduction

The powerof a network

Our changing world

Spotlight
on South America

From global
to local to global

A sustainable andequitable Congress

Accelerating forward

CONGRESS OUTCOMEICLEI and Climate Bonds Initiative partner to boost sustainable
development projects
On 18 June, ICLEI and the Climate Bonds Initiative announced a strategic partnershipto empower local governments by linking high-impact subnational climate projects
with essential financial resources and expertise. The partnership focuses on project
mobilization, capacity building, technical assistance, and joint fundraising to promotesustainable investment and climate-resilient development. It is conducted under theTransformative Actions Program (TAP), a global initiative that brings together financial
institutions, project preparation facilities, and the private sector to assist subnational
governments and local businesses in turning their sustainable infrastructure ideas into
solid and investment-ready projects.
CONGRESS OUTCOMEICLEI-Kaohsiung Smart and Net Zero Cities Community announced
The City of Kaohsiung announced a new partnership with ICLEI to host a communityof practice for cities that are committed to net zero by 2050 goal. The community ofpractice invites Asia-Pacific cities to participate and contribute to capacity building andpeer exchange on climate neutrality topics. The community also will have visibility at
global advocacy events to raise the profile and ambition of cities in the region.

Introduction

The powerof a network

Our changing world

Spotlight
on South America

From global
to local to global

A sustainable andequitable Congress

Accelerating forward

SECTION II

Our changing world
We are living in times of rapidly accelerating technological change
and economic uncertainty, as the world is plagued by two dangerous
crises: climate and conflict.

LEARN MORE

CityTalk

Navigating our changing world: Insights on local
urban climate action

These crises exacerbate the challenges that our cities, towns and regions already faceworldwide, and further complicate the work that local and regional governments havealready accomplished in advancing sustainability efforts in their communities. Ourcities, towns, regions and communities must already plan for and adapt to a future
beyond 1.5°C.

Introduction

The power of a network

Our changing world

Spotlight
on South America

From global
to local to global

A sustainable andequitable Congress

Accelerating forwardAt the Congress, ICLEI leaders from around the world shared how they have been able
to advance local sustainable development in spite of - or in response to - our changing
world, and how they are preparing their communities for a new climate normal. The
experiences of ICLEI Members from Brazil were especially highlighted, focusing on theirefforts to adapt their communities to this new climate normal in a just and equitable way.
CONGRESS OUTCOME

Urban Infrastructure Insurance Facility Project (UIIF) announced firstseven city signatories
The Urban Infrastructure Insurance Facility (UIIF) was launched to enhance urban
resilience against natural hazards with innovative insurance solutions. Seven cities
from Mexico, Brazil, Jamaica, and Honduras—Curitiba, Porto Alegre, Recife, Reynosa,
Mérida, Tegucigalpa, and Kingston—are the first to join. Funded by KfW Development
Bank on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation andDevelopment (BMZ), UIIF helps cities measure risks and provides tailored insurance
solutions. This initiative is vital for mitigating natural disaster disruptions and fostering
sustainable urban development in Latin America and the Caribbean, setting a global
example for urban leaders.

Introduction

The power of a network

Our changing world

Spotlight
on South America

From global
to local to global

WATCH THE FULL PLENARY

 Our changing world

A sustainable andequitable Congress

Accelerating forward

Cases from our network: Adapting to our changing world
Across the globe, cities and regions within the ICLEI network are spearheading diverse initiatives to tackle the climate emergency. Urban
areas are becoming hubs of innovation and environmental stewardship, implementing projects that range from enhancing resilienceagainst natural disasters to promoting renewable energy, and integrating green infrastructure. Cities are also addressing food security
and waste reduction, often engaging local communities in the process. This global wave of urban transformation underscores a sharedcommitment to building sustainable, resilient, and inclusive cities for the future.

Embedding equity
in urban sustainability
Malmö, Sweden
Advancing racial equity
in climate action
Cleveland, USA
Boulder, USA• Empowering youth
for climate resilience• Reducing plastic bag use

Ludwigsburg, Germany
Speeding up equitableenergy transition

Reviving disadvantaged urban
Implementing areas for resiliencea sustainability office Freeport, Bahamas
Coral Springs, USA

Mérida, Mexico
Greening bus stops

Rome, Italy
Controlling energy consumption

Chefchaouen, Morocco
Promoting healthiereating habits

North Miami, USA
Charging electric cars

Tegucigalpa, Honduras
Mapping risk areas
to climate hazards

Kaohsiung, Chinese Taipei
Pioneering digital public
transport

Reclaiming street
for pedestrians
Fortaleza, Brazil

Portoviejo, Ecuador
Early warning system for climate disasters
Cuenca, Ecuador
Engaging community
to protect water

Teresina, Brazil
Greening low-income
communities

Contagem, Brazil
Powering solar energy

Puducherry, India
Reviving indigenous
water systems
Melaka, Malaysia
Expanding car-free zones

Brejo da Madre de Deus, Brazil
Building local capacity for tourism
Recife, Brazil
Integrating gender equity

State of Minas Gerais, Brazil
Assessing climate vulnerability
São Paulo, Brazil• Cultivating food security
Florianópolis, Brazil • Preserving green areas
Decongesting trafficwith real-time dataeThekwini, South Africa
Gardening roofs

Avellaneda, Argentina
Transitioning to
100% renewables

Introduction

The power of a network

Our changing world

Nadi Town Council, Fiji
Boosting coastal resilience

Quelimane, Mozambique
Restoring mangroves

Banyule, Australia
Charting an urban foodsystem pathway

Spotlight
on South America

From global
to local to global

A sustainable andequitable Congress

Sydney, Australia
Turning food scraps into
zero-waste solutions

Accelerating forward

Cases from thematic track: Adapting to our changing world
AFRICAeThekwini, South Africa: Gardening roofs
The ongoing Green Roof pilot project aims to mitigate stormwater runoff and flooding.
It tests modular and direct green roof methods with various growing media andindigenous plants, focusing on temperature reduction, runoff quality, and biodiversity.
Chefchaouen, Morocco: Promoting healthier eating habits
Honoring its UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage status, the city promotes theMediterranean diet as a lifestyle “from farm to table.” Its recently opened Mediterranean
Diet Museum offers awareness workshops, garden tours, and tastings.
Quelimane, Mozambique: Restoring mangroves
The city lies below sea level alongside the Bons Sinai River and near the coast, making
it prone to flooding. The mangrove forests nearby had been severely impacted bydeforestation for building and cooking, so in 2013 the municipality began restoringlarge areas of mangroves, which now serve as the city’s frontline defense against floods.

EAST ASIA
Kaohsiung, Chinese Taipei: Pioneering digital public transport
Kaohsiung is Chinese Taipei’s first city to fully digitize its public transportation system.
The MeNGo MaaS platform integrates all transport modes, allowing users to plan
journeys and pay via mobile devices. This user-friendly service encourages people touse public transportation.

Session recordings from this track
19 JUNE, 14:15 BRT

 Transforming local food systems
for global impact
19 JUNE, 14:15 BRT

 A force to be reckoned with: New
ICLEI Members in the spotlight
19 JUNE, 14:15 BRT

 Hopeful solutions in a post-1,5 °C
world: Moving from inequity tocity-scale resilience
19 JUNE, 16:30 BRT

 Greening our urban tapestry:
Collaboration and solutions
for nature and biodiversity
19 JUNE, 16:30 BRT

 From two billion tons to zero:

Taking on our big waste problem
through the circular economy
19 JUNE, 16:30 BRT

 Harnessing opportunities andreducing risks: Using artificial
intelligence for local climate

Introduction

The power of a network

Our changing world

Spotlight
on South America

From global
to local to global

A sustainable andequitable Congress

Accelerating forward

EUROPE
Ludwigsburg, Germany: Speeding up equitable energy transition
Under the INCLU:DE project, the city’s subsidy scheme for plug-in solar devices allows
tenants to reduce electricity bills by 10-20%. Its “carefree package” for low-income
households ensures all residents benefit from renewable energy.
Malmö, Sweden: Embedding equity in urban sustainability
Malmö integrates social equity into its climate strategy with initiatives like sustainable
food, an equitable economy, and affordable housing. These efforts align with the Malmö
Commitment on Inclusive and Equitable Communities, co-founded in 2022 by Mayor
Katrin Stjernfeldt Jammeh, ICLEI President, which pledges social equity as the core ofsustainable development.
Rome, Italy: Controlling energy consumption
Piloted in two public buildings, the PLATOON project aims to implement an energy audit
scheme, deploy an advanced multi-scale energy management system, and optimize
energy infrastructure to enhance comfort and reduce costs.

MEXICO, CENTRAL AMERICA AND THE CARIBBEAN
Freeport, Bahamas: Reviving disadvantaged urban areas for resilience
Under the Cities Forward program, Freeport is working with Coral Springs, USA, (thecities were paired through the program) to revitalize an economically depressed area.
The initiative aims to create a sustainable, resilient community by improving housing,boosting the economy through agritech, and promoting social well-being.
Mérida, Mexico: Greening bus stops
In 2023, the city launched Mexico’s first green bus stop under the Vía Verde pilot project.
It features a pollinator garden roof that mitigates heat and irrigates itself, improving
users’ waiting conditions during extreme heat waves while enhancing biodiversity.

Introduction

The power of a network

Our changing world

Spotlight
on South America

From global
to local to global

A sustainable andequitable Congress

Accelerating forwardTegucigalpa, Honduras: Mapping risk areas to climate hazards
The city is developing a risk management map through the Urban Infrastructure
Insurance Facility (UIIF) project. This will improve the city’s resilience against natural
hazards, as 6% of its territory faces a permanent risk of flooding and landslides.

NORTH AMERICA
Boulder, USA: Empowering youth for climate resilience
As the city experiences more intense heatwaves and fires, it has implemented theCommunity Forestry Corps initiative, employing young people to maintain city trees
and collect data on how trees impact heat and climate change.
Boulder, USA: Reducing plastic bag use
Since 2012, Boulder’s ten-cent fee on single-use plastic bags has reduced their use by
70%, with revenues funding reusable bags for low-income residents.
Cleveland, USA: Advancing racial equity in climate action
The city’s Climate Action Plan includes a Racial Equity Tool to ensure just distribution ofclimate benefits. Developed by an advisory committee, the tool assesses each action
for equity relevance, guiding decision-makers in recognizing and addressing inequities.
Coral Springs, USA: Implementing a sustainability office
Founded in 2021, Coral Springs’ Office of Sustainability balances the city’s environmental,
economic, and social needs. It manages the city’s Sustainability Action Plan, develops
policies, coordinates initiatives, provides education, and partners with the communityand external organizations.
North Miami, USA: Charging electric cars
The city is installing electric vehicle charging stations and parking throughout its
jurisdiction. By downloading the ChargePoint app, users can locate charging stations
and receive step-by-step instructions on how to plug in their cars.

Introduction

The power of a network

Our changing world

Spotlight
on South America

From global
to local to global

A sustainable andequitable Congress

Accelerating forward

OCEANIA
Banyule, Australia: Charting an urban food system pathway
Banyule’s first Urban Food Strategy, 2023-2027, is a blueprint for creating, celebrating,and enhancing the city’s food systems to ensure they are healthy, sustainable, equitable,
inclusive, and accessible.
Nadi Town Council, Fiji: Boosting coastal resilience
Climate change, mangrove cutting, and coastal filling have made the city prone tofloods, disrupting airport operations. Stranded tourists pose a significant issue. Nady
is actively contributing to the ICLEI – IFRC coastal cities initiative to reduce risks andenhance resilience.
Sydney, Australia: Turning food scraps into a zero-waste solutions
The city has launched a one-year trial using black soldier fly larvae to consume 600
tonnes of residents’ food scraps. This process creates a circular commodity: protein-richanimal feed and natural fertilizer, both essential for sustainable food production.

SOUTH AMERICA
Avellaneda, Argentina: Transitioning to 100% renewables
Under the 100% Renewables Cities and Regions Roadmaps project, Avellaneda launched
its roadmap prioritizing bioenergy for electricity and heating. The plan includes
shifting transport to renewable energy, implementing energy efficiency measures, anddeveloping a 5 MW solar park.
Brejo da Madre de Deus, Brazil: Building local capacity for tourism
The city offers free driver courses to certify individuals as tourism drivers, providing
qualifications for those currently working or aspiring to work in this sector. Lessons
include hospitality, local development, and digital marketing. This initiative boosts the
economy, builds local capacity, and leverages the city’s tourism potential.

Introduction

The power of a network

Our changing world

Spotlight
on South America

From global
to local to global

A sustainable andequitable Congress

Accelerating forward

Contagem, Brazil: Powering solar energy
The city has launched its first solar energy plant on a public building, an outcome of the
ICLEI Energy Transition Program in cities project. Located at the Environment Secretary’s
office, the 80 solar panels supply the building with clean energy, making it self-sufficient.
The initiative is expected to expand to other public buildings in the city.
Cuenca, Ecuador: Engaging community to protect water
In 2021, 80% of Cuenca voters supported banning mining in water recharge zones toprotect the city’s five main rivers that supply water to the area. The unprecedented citizenreferendum resulted in an Action Plan to monitor and improve drinking water quality.
Fortaleza, Brazil: Improving climate and health conditions
Rachel de Queiroz Park in Fortaleza features green areas and native vegetation tocombat the urban heat island effect and enhance local biodiversity. It incorporates
climate adaptation measures like rainwater absorption to reduce flood risks and uses
solar-powered lighting for sustainability.
Portoviejo, Ecuador: Warning climate risks
The city implemented Portoviejo Previene, a free app that provides early warnings fortsunamis, earthquakes, landslides, flood-prone areas, and evacuation routes.
Recife, Brazil: Integrating gender equity
In May 2022, heavy rains left 3,500 people homeless, with black women in vulnerable
areas being the most affected. The ProMorar Recife program addresses this crisis byproviding safe housing and essential infrastructure.It prioritizes granting property
titles for women-led households and offers training in productive inclusion and climate
disaster risk management.
São Paulo, Brazil: Cultivating food security
The Fight Food Waste and Loss Program collects surplus fruits and vegetables, preventing
disposal from fairs and markets. Similarly, the city’s food bank buys fresh produce from family
urban farms and redistributes surplus food from retail chains to assistance institutions.

Introduction

The power of a network

Our changing world

Spotlight
on South America

From global
to local to global

A sustainable andequitable Congress

Accelerating forwardSão Paulo, Brazil: Preserving green areas
Last February 2024, the City of São Paulo declared the acquisition of 32 private green
areas as a public utility. Combined, they encompass 16,531 hectares, representing 11%of São Paulo’s territory, equivalent to the size of Paris or 15,500 football fields.
State of Minas Gerais, Brazil: Assessing climate vulnerability
The Climate Vulnerability Index ranks the state’s 853 municipalities from low to extreme.
This index measures a municipality’s susceptibility to adverse climate change effects byassessing three main components: sensitivity, exposure, and adaptability.
Teresina, Brazil: Greening low-income communities
Under the Transformative Urban Coalitions project, Teresina prioritizes urban
afforestation to mitigate extreme heat and drought. By planting native and foodseedlings, the initiative improves access to green spaces, reduces heat effects, enhances
food security, and benefits mental and physical health.

SOUTH ASIA
Puducherry, India: Reviving indigenous knowledge to store rainwater
The city uses an indigenous system of tanks and ponds to collect and store excess
rainwater for later use. This project involves significant community engagement, as thetanks and ponds are spread across the city.

SOUTHEAST ASIA
Melaka, Malaysia: Expanding car-free zones
Previously, the city’s historic center was car-free from 6:00 PM to midnight on Saturdays.
Now, it’s car-free from Friday evening to Sunday at midnight, offering over 50 hoursof pedestrian-friendly exploration. Despite initial concerns from local businesses, thisextension has boosted the economy by adding night markets and reduced CO2 emissions.

Introduction

The power of a network

Our changing world

Spotlight
on South America

From global
to local to global

A sustainable andequitable Congress

Accelerating forward

CONGRESS OUTCOME

MEDIA
SPOTLIGHT

100% Renewables Roadmap Project launched three roadmaps
ICLEI, in collaboration with the governments of Avellaneda (Argentina), Kisumu County(Kenya), and West Nusa Tenggara Province (Indonesia), unveiled tailored roadmaps
to achieve 100% renewable energy by 2050. These customized plans, adapted to eachregion’s specific needs and resources, highlight the proactive leadership of cities andregions in the global energy transition. The project is funded by the German Federal
Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK) through the International
Climate Initiative (IKI).
CONGRESS OUTCOMEICLEI and IFRC kick off a coastal cities initiative

Equity in Action: Shaping Local Climate Solutions
for All
Aligning equity and climate mitigation priorities
is crucial for developing sustainable cities thatserve all residents, especially marginalized
communities. Cities are increasingly integratingsocial equity into their climate strategies.
Initiatives like the INCLU:DE project in Germany
and the Malmö Commitment on Inclusive andEquitable Communities highlight successful
efforts to align climate and equity goals in
the cities of Malmö, Cleveland, Ludwigsburg,
Rosario, and Teresina.

Building on a global partnership announced at COP28, ICLEI and IFRC kicked off thedevelopment of a coastal cities initiative for the Asia-Pacific, Africa and Latin America
regions to reduce risks for coastal cities and nurture resilience. Coastal city leadersand practitioners were invited to develop and pitch potential project ideas to build afoundation for future collaboration opportunities.

Introduction

The power of a network

Our changing world

Spotlight
on South America

From global
to local to global

A sustainable andequitable Congress

Accelerating forward

SECTION III

Spotlight on South America
Our Congress was hosted by the City of São Paulo, a long-standing ICLEIMember since 1991. The largest city in Brazil and South America and thefourth largest metropolis in the world - home to over 12 million residents it also serves as Brazil’s main economic and financial center. More than 20
million residents live in the Greater São Paulo metropolitan area.
The City of São Paulo plays a leading role in sustainability commitment, action andinnovation. As a key player in the international forums, the city has participated in UN
conventions since UNFCCC COP21 in Paris, as well as the Convention on Biodiversity COP15
in Montreal. At climate COP28 in Dubai, with the biggest delegation actively participating,
the City announced they would host the ICLEI World Congress 2024, as well as a robust
pack of initiatives to promote sustainable urban development for 2024 totaling more than
R$15 billion (2.4 billion EUR) in investments.

Introduction

The power of a network

Our changing world

Spotlight
on South America

From global
to local to global

WATCH THE FULL PLENARY

 Amazonian cities, unique andirreplaceable

A sustainable andequitable Congress

Accelerating forward

The City has committed to creating solidarity and city-to-city cooperation opportunities
as an essential part of addressing the global environmental, humanitarian, economic
and health crises of our time. Since 2023, the City of São Paulo has been host to morethan 40 international events that are already considered legacies for the city, suchas the Virada ODS, the International Diplomacy Week, the Expo Internacional Dia da
Consciência Negra, and the São Paulo International Summit; and has demonstrated astrong political commitment with city networks as Presidency of Mercociudades networkand of the National Forum of International Relations (FONARI), the Vice Presidency ofMetropolis and Co-chair of Urban 20 process.

MEDIA
SPOTLIGHT
Three ways São Paulo charts a greener today –and tomorrow
In 2009, the City of São Paulo made history bypassing the Municipal Policy for Climate Change,
making it the first city in Brazil to pass such
legislation. Since then, this 12 million-people
megacity has emerged as a shining example ofdedication and progress towards sustainability.

Zooming out on the region, we see the iconic Amazon biome, encompassing the world’s
largest rainforest and one of only three global hotspots for biocultural diversity. Its vast
expanse crosses nine countries (Brazil, Peru, Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, Bolivia,
Guyana, Suriname and French Guiana) and countless cities with an estimated 50 million
residents - identified as ”Amazônidas” - who speak 86 languages and more than 650
dialects. According to the Brazilian Geography and Statistics Institute, IBGE, 72% of
the population of the Brazilian Amazon resides in urban centers, and according to IDB,
only 22.3% of the urban population in the Andean Amazon cities has limited access toelectricity, contributing to the complexity of delivering sustainable public services.

Introduction

The power of a network

Our changing world

Spotlight
on South America

From global
to local to global

A sustainable andequitable Congress

Accelerating forwardSince 2021, ICLEI has promoted a robust Urban Amazon agenda: promoting theForum of Pan Amazon Cities, a pioneering initiative that has brought together mayors
and strategic partners to find solutions for urban social and environmental risks,running capacity building and training activities with an approach in adaptation andbiodiversity, supporting inventories, risk and ecosystem services assessments andmentores for project preparation, as well as delivering Local Climate Action Plans.
Latin America, as the world’s most urbanized region, plays a pivotal role in global
climate action due to its rich natural resources and unique environmental challenges.
With all three UN conventions meeting in 2024, including the Sixteenth meeting of
the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD COP16)
in Colombia in October, the region’s significance in the global environmental agenda
is more pronounced than ever.
Operating in South America since 2000, ICLEI connects 139 Members of local andregional governments in eight countries in the region. Since 2021, ICLEI South America
has three offices—located in Medellin, Colombia; Rosario, Argentina; and São Paulo,
Brazil—and employs more than 50 staff. It implements 40 cooperation projects and aservice portfolio and organizes several events each year to promote sustainable andequitable cities and regions throughout the region.

Introduction

The power of a network

Our changing world

Spotlight
on South America

From global
to local to global

A sustainable andequitable Congress

Accelerating forward

Cases from thematic track: Spotlight on South America
Medellín, Colombia
Promoting circular economy andlandfill management
La Estrella, Colombia
Promoting circular economy and dignity

Cartagena, Colombia
Restoring urban nature
Villavicencio, Colombia
Mapping biodiversity
and its benefits

Cali, Colombia
Hosting CBD COP16
Esmeraldas Province, Ecuador
Protecting the unique Chocó ecosystem
Quito, Ecuador
Zero emissions zone
in the Historic Center

Belém, Brazil
Protecting urban ecosystems

Maynas Province, Peru
Fostering sustainable schools

Manaus, Brazil
Reforesting indigenous
urban areas

Cobija, Bolivia
Fostering resilient schools
Achieving net-zero by 2050
Campinas, Brazil

From sprawling metropolises to small urban
centers, South American cities in the ICLEI
network are advancing sustainable urban
development through comprehensive andequitable
environmental
strategies.
By
involving citizens in climate action planning,they promote resilience, zero emissions, andcircular development. Initiatives range fromurban reforestation and biodiversity protection
to water conservation, ensuring all communities
benefit from these advancements.

Introduction

The power of a network

Our changing world

Empowering job opportunities for women
Despeñaderos, Argentina

Renca, Chile
Enhancing resilience
with the community

Santiago
Metropolitan
Region, Chile

Peñalolén, Chile
Lighting witha gender focus

São Paulo, Brazil
Mitigating flooding
Curitiba, Brazil
effects
Speeding up traffic
Santiago, Brazil
Innovating green currency for circularity
Montevideo, Uruguay
Securing water supply
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Housing assistanceIndependencia, Chile
Growing asustainability park

Spotlight
on South America

Niterói, Brazil
Engaging community
action through a social
currency reward program

Tolhuin, Argentina
Empowering womenin construction

From global
to local to global

A sustainable andequitable Congress

Accelerating forward

Cases from thematic track: Spotlight on South America
Belém, Brazil: Protecting urban ecosystems
Under the Nature-Based Cities project, Belém strengthens local governance and develops
financeable projects to implement its Ecosystem-based Adaptation Plan by enhancing
its ecosystem services and resilience capacity by conducting two key studies: Ecosystem
Services Diagnosis and Climate Risk and Vulnerability Analysis. Belém is also building its
climate compliance by developing a GHG emissions inventory and a robust climate action
plan through strategic partnerships with key entities, such as GCoM and IDB.
Buenos Aires, Argentina: Housing assistance
Buenos Aires offers financial support to prevent homelessness. Families and individuals
receive housing-specific subsidies and guidance to find long-term solutions. Beneficiaries
must report their expenditures periodically.
Cali, Colombia: Hosting CBD COP16
Known as the "Colombian biodiversity capital," Cali is preparing to host CBD COP16,
highlighting the crucial role of Afro-descendant and Indigenous communities, whichhave historically protected over 35% of the region's natural territory.

Session recordings from this track
20 JUNE, 12:00 BRT

 Weaving knowledge: Integrating
traditional knowledge andeducation in environmental
sustainability
20 JUNE, 12:00 BRT

 How everyone can thrivein gender-responsive cities
20 JUNE, 12:00 BRT

 Tomorrow’s cities today:

Megacities driving global change

Campinas, Brazil: Achieving net-zero by 2050
The city recently released its Local Climate Action Plan, which rethinks city building,energy consumption and generation, and transportation. It aims for net-zero emissions
by 2050 and prioritizes actions that promote climate justice and public well-being.
Cartagena, Colombia: Restoring urban nature
The Ciénaga de la Virgen District Park Macroproject aims to restore and consolidate
its wetland ecosystem. It fosters a balanced transition between formal and informal
urban areas and preserves the environmental connection between the wetland and the
Caribbean Sea.

Introduction

The power of a network

Our changing world

Spotlight
on South America

From global
to local to global

A sustainable andequitable Congress

Accelerating forwardCobija, Bolivia: Fostering resilient schools
Eight schools benefit from the Unicef-led Resilient Schools project, which provides
renewable energy. Solar panels and a rainwater collection system aim to raise awarenessabout sustainability and involve youth in climate action.
​​
Curitiba,
Brazil: Speeding up traffic
The city bus rapid transit system sets intelligent and dynamic traffic management,
priority signaling, and real-time bus information. New bike lanes and racks near thecorridors aim to integrate cycling with the transit network.
Despeñaderos, Argentina: Empowering women job opportunities
The Resilient Women program promotes financial and digital inclusion for women
through green jobs, advancing the circular economy. In collaboration with Industrial
Design students from the University of Córdoba, women learn textile recycling
techniques, creating new employment opportunities.
Esmeraldas Province, Ecuador (representing the Consortium of Provincial
Governments of Ecuador): Protecting the unique Chocó ecosystem
The Path of the Jaguar is the province’s newly declared Conservation and Sustainable
Use Area totaling more than 200,000 hectares in the Chocó bioregion, one of the world’s
most biodiverse ecosystems. The area faces constant threat due to excessive logging
and rapid urbanization.
Independencia, Chile: Growing a sustainability park
In 2018, Independencia transformed an abandoned sports court into its signature
Sustainability Park, an urban forest using the Miyawaki method for fast-growing nativeplants. The community was actively involved in planting seeds. The park also features acenter for environmental practices and education, a waste management and recycling
drop-off, and a nursery garden.

Introduction

The power of a network

Our changing world

Spotlight
on South America

From global
to local to global

A sustainable andequitable Congress

Accelerating forward

La Estrella, Colombia: Promoting circular economy and dignity
In La Estrella, companies exchange new clothes for recyclables from vulnerable
communities, promoting a circular economy while providing dignity to theunderprivileged.
Manaus, Brazil: Reforesting indigenous urban areas
Under UNEP’s Generation Restoration Cities program, this Amazonian city is reforesting
degraded areas in an informal urban indigenous settlement to enhance resilienceagainst landslides. Over 300 fruit trees were planted, and the community will manage
the harvest to boost the local economy.
Maynas Province, Peru: Fostering sustainable schools
In partnership with FAO, the Sustainable Schools project works with 30 schools toimprove health, food security, and nutrition. The project focuses on implementing
school gardens, composting and recycling solid waste, promoting family farming, andconducting nutrition and healthy eating workshops.
Medellín, Colombia: Promoting circular economy and landfill management
The District Development Plan 2024-2027 Medellín Te Quiere is transforming La Pradera
landfill into an example of circularity and efficient waste management. Strategies
include recycling and reuse, awareness raising, incentives for sustainable businessmodels, material recovery projects, and the adoption of innovative technologies for
waste treatment.
Montevideo, Uruguay: Securing water supply
After a severe drought nearly exhausted its water supply in 2023, the city launched
Montevideo Más Verde. This strategy promotes cross-sectoral climate action in watersupply, transport, housing, and education, focusing on responsible resource use, smart
service organization, social inclusion, and biodiversity conservation.

Introduction

The power of a network

Our changing world

Spotlight
on South America

From global
to local to global

A sustainable andequitable Congress

Accelerating forward

Niterói, Brazil: Engaging community action through a social currency reward
program
The Arariboia Social Currency is an innovative strategy applied in the Caramujo
community to engage residents in climate action. Residents are rewarded with"Arariboias," the local social currency, for achieving individual and collective targets for
reducing carbon emissions, such as planting, separating waste, or composting. Financial
prizes of up to 100 US will be granted to residents who significantly reduce CO2.
Peñalolén, Chile: Lighting with a gender focus
Following a survey to female residents about areas prone to harassment and insecurity,
Peñalolén mapped nine sectors where new eco-friendly, smart LED lights will be
installed. These lights, programmable for intensity and timing, will be violet to alignwith feminism and gender equity awareness.
Quito, Ecuador: Zero emissions zone in the historic center
Through the Sustainable Mobility Master Plan and the Climate Action Plan, Quito seeks
to consolidate a zero emissions zone in the historic center, promoting improvements in
air quality, efficiency in freight management, sustainable tourism and preservation ofcultural heritage.
Renca, Chile: Enhancing resilience with the community
Together with the community, Renca selected two unused lots to implement a sustainabledrainage system. This project aims to prevent flooding, increase green coverage, andreclaim public spaces for recreation.
Santiago, Brazil: Innovating green currency for circularity
The city introduced a sustainable coin to promote circular transactions. Citizens
exchange household waste at city hall for the coin, saving waste collection costs. These
coins can be used to buy fresh produce from local farmers, who can then exchange
them for seeds and planting implements at city hall. The city also was announced as a
new member of ICLEI South America.

Introduction

The power of a network

Our changing world

Spotlight
on South America

From global
to local to global

A sustainable andequitable Congress

Accelerating forwardSão Paulo, Brazil: Mitigating flooding effects
São Paulo has the largest network of rain gardens in Latin America, with 320
established and plans for 400 by 2024. Using recycled materials, especially concrete forunderground infiltration mattresses, the city ensures these gardens are sustainable inurban functionality and material usage.
Tolhuin, Argentina: Empowering women in construction
The Imagen Colectiva program trains and promotes women in public-built projects
like sidewalk construction. The program aims to increase women's participation inhistorically male-dominated fields, enhance autonomy, improve quality of life, andcontribute to a more equitable city.
Villavicencio, Colombia: Mapping biodiversity and its benefits
Under the NaBa: Nature-Based Resilient Cities project, Villavicencio co-created aparticipatory map highlighting biodiversity and its benefits for city residents. Outcomes
were featured in the city’s Illustrated booklet. This effort increased understanding andbuilt capacity around the city's nature-based solutions and natural assets.

Introduction

The power of a network

Our changing world

Spotlight
on South America

From global
to local to global

A sustainable andequitable Congress

Accelerating forward

Congress Outcomes: South America
The Congress marked a milestone in the international urban sustainability events
agenda. Important announcements for the region, including the Brazil's Ministry ofEnvironment National Tree Planting Plan kick off, which will receive technical support
from ICLEI. Additionally, South American mayors and the youth constituency delivereda series of declarations impacting local public policies.

ICLEI and Brazil's Ministry of Environment announced partnership
A cooperation between ICLEI and the Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change
of Brazil (MMA) to develop the National Urban Afforestation Plan, was announced
during the ICLEI Global Council meeting at the Tomie Ohtake Institute on 18 June, byAdalberto Maluf, National Secretary for Urban Environment and Environmental Quality.

Declaration of South American Cities
Seventy-four cities from seven South American countries expressed the need forfinancing and resources to create urban resilience strategies and improve the ability
to plan and implement solutions adapted to local and regional contexts. The Cities
Declaration: Regional Commitment in Action represents a joint commitment by SouthAmerican cities towards a more sustainable future and recognizes the imminent needto act with urgency and determination in the face of the current threat posed by theclimate emergency. English version available here.

Youth Manifesto for just transition
The Youth Manifesto, launched at the Congress, aims to promote a fair transition,prioritize human rights protection, and advocate for the political independence of young
people. It includes recommendations for local governments and society as a whole
and was developed through discussions and meetings of the Youth Advisory Board forthe ICLEI World Congress 2024. At the Congress’ closing plenary, Júlia Bonitese, youth
activist and ambassador for climate justice, highlighted the importance of active young
people’s participation in local and global climate action.

Introduction

The power of a network

Our changing world

Spotlight
on South America

From global
to local to global

A sustainable andequitable Congress

Accelerating forwardAdditional announcements:•

New FAO - ICLEI Guide for public managers on sustainable food systems launched,with a new term for the LUPPA project, Latin America's largest urban food systems
laboratory.

•

New ICLEI partnerships on resilience announced between the governments of theState of Piauí and the Cities of São Sepé and Itabirito for Climate Compliance plans.

•

New ICLEI - Fortaleza technical collaboration for the Re-Ciclo program on selective
waste collection by waste pickers using electric vehicles (tricycles). A technicalcollaboration protocol was also signed with CITinova to replicate the project in other
cities.

•New ICLEI - Tip Magazine issue Paradiplomacy and Environmental Agendas
on innovative strategies in climate change, energy transition and sustainable
development released during the side event on Global Cities organized by Barcelona
Centre for International Affairs (CIDOB).

•

New ICLEI project kick-off between the Union of Ibero-American Capital Cities (UCCI)
that consists of a regional comparative study of heat waves and cities’ adaptation
initiatives and a joint manifesto of Ibero-American cities to be presented at COP29.

Introduction

The power of a network

Our changing world

Spotlight
on South America

From global
to local to global

MEDIA
SPOTLIGHT
Unique and Irreplaceable Cities Making the
Urban Amazon Visible
Amazonian cities are diverse in opportunities andneeds. The region’s biodiversity is among theworld’s most important, but its cities’ sustainability
challenges are less well-known. These jurisdictions
require financial support and capacity building
to create sustainable, conservation-oriented,
equitable, urban green spaces with circulardevelopment. At the ICLEI World Congress 2024,
mayors from this region convened to amplify thevoices of these unique cities.

A sustainable andequitable Congress

Accelerating forward

Sustainability up close and personal: Site visits in São Paulo

CREN - Center for Recovery
and Nutritional Education

City of São Paulo

Ambiental TransportCompany Garage
Municipal Market of Pinheiros
Kitchen School
Network

Bruno Covas
Linear Park

Carolina Maria de Jesus
Mechanized Sorting Center

Introduction

Environmental
Adventure
Program UMAPAZ
and Viveiro
Manequinho
Lopes

The Aquapolo
water recycling caseOn 20 June, more than 200 participants
fanned out across São Paulo fortechnical site visits with city leaders,program staff and technical experts.
The site visits represented an
opportunity to connect Congress
discussions with policies undertaken
by both the São Paulo City Hall and
the Government of the State of São
Paulo. In total, eight site visits featured
relevant cases involving cross-cutting
approaches on waste management,
circular economy, and environmental
education; green infrastructure withwildlife and public health; or electricand waterways mobility solutions,where Ricardo Nunes, Mayor of theCity of São Paulo, presented to ICLEI’s
Global Council on the city’s first public
water transportation.

São Paulo's first waterway
transportation and theCantinho do Céu Linear ParkThe power of a network

Our changing world

Spotlight
on South America

From global
to local to global

A sustainable andequitable Congress

Accelerating forward

CREN - Center for Recovery and Nutritional Education
LED BY: SÃO PAULO CITY HALL

For 30 years, the Center for Recovery and Nutritional Education (CREN) has worked innutritional education and treating malnutrition and obesity in children and adolescents.
During the visit, participants learned about CREN's operations and the multifunctional
facilities, such as the classrooms and the garden. The garden functions as both an
educational tool and a source of fresh produce, and there is also a composting area on
the premises. Visitors had the chance to sample dishes made with ingredients harvested
directly from the garden, emphasizing the center's commitment to incorporating fresh,
locally-grown produce into their daily meals.

Kitchen School Network and Municipal Market of Pinheiros
LED BY: SÃO PAULO CITY HALL

Municipal Law 17.819, enacted on 29 June, 2022, introduced programs to support
vulnerable populations. One initiative, the Kitchen School Network, aims to provide foodsecurity training and produce at least 400 meals daily for distribution to São Paulo’s
vulnerable residents in partnership with civil society organizations.
The Pinheiros Municipal Market implements sustainability policies to raise awarenessabout recycling among customers and employees. Visitors learned from partnercompany representatives about recycling processes for cooking oil and materials likeplastic, paper, and glass.

Ambiental Transport Company Garage
LED BY: SÃO PAULO CITY HALL

Run by Ambiental, one of São Paulo's transport operators, this garage houses a fleetof 40 battery-electric buses and 201 trolleybuses, along with their respective charging
infrastructure. Visitors learned about São Paulo's bus operation system and the steps
taken to adopt electric buses. Representatives from São Paulo's transportation agency,
SPTrans, and Ambiental provided technical overviews, and participants also explored
the garage's water reuse infrastructure.

Introduction

The power of a network

Our changing world

Spotlight
on South America

From global
to local to global

A sustainable andequitable Congress

Accelerating forwardSão Paulo's first waterway transportation and the Cantinho do Céu
Linear Park
LED BY: SÃO PAULO CITY HALL

Mayor Ricardo Nunes accompanied this visit, specially designed for ICLEI's governancemembers and mayors from around the world. Participants boarded the Aquatico SP, thecity's first public waterway on the Billings Reservoir. They also toured the Cantinho do
Céu Linear Park, built under the Mananciais Program, an important initiative responsible
for urbanization and land regularization projects to protect the city's water sources.

Environmental Adventure Program - UMAPAZ and Viveiro
Manequinho Lopes
LED BY: SÃO PAULO CITY HALL

During this visit, the group got to know the facilities and workings of UMAPAZ Coordination of Environmental Education and Culture of Peace and Open University
for the Environment and Culture of Peace. UMAPAZ plays a key role in formulating andpromoting Environmental Education through a variety of activities and courses.
Participants also visited the Manequinho Lopes Nursery to take part in its Environmental
Adventure Program, aiming to raise awareness of socio-environmental issues throughimmersive experiences, addressing topics such as biodiversity, climate change, andpolicy approaches while encouraging reflection on human-nature relationships.

Carolina Maria de Jesus Mechanized Sorting Center
LED BY: SÃO PAULO CITY HALLManaged by Ecourbis, this Center can sort up to 250 tons of materials a day. Visitors
were introduced to São Paulo's waste collection and sorting system. The tour sparked
a discussion on common urban waste management challenges and solutions, withpresenters sharing relevant data. They also highlighted the city's support program for
Cooperatives and the management program for Recycling Cooperatives.

Introduction

The power of a network

Our changing world

Spotlight
on South America

From global
to local to global

A sustainable andequitable Congress

Accelerating forward

Bruno Covas Linear Park

LED BY: SÃO PAULO STATE GOVERNMENT

Visitors learned about the process of requalifying urban spaces, leading to the creation of
public parks. They also discovered how urban parks enhance human-wildlife interaction,
though these interactions can pose public health risks and generate negative feelings
towards wildlife. The Wildlife Management Department works to mitigate these risks
and provides guidance. Additionally, the tour addressed managing domestic animals
with an integrated health approach for people, animals, and ecosystems.

The Aquapolo water recycling case
LED BY: SÃO PAULO STATE GOVERNMENT

The visit presented the case of Aquapolo, Latin America's largest water recycling
company, using treated effluent to supply water to industries in the Greater São Paulo's
industrial area, known as the "ABC Region." Participants toured the treatment plant
and learned about the company's advanced tertiary treatment process.

Introduction

The power of a network

Our changing world

Spotlight
on South America

From global
to local to global

A sustainable andequitable Congress

Accelerating forward

SECTION IV

From global to local to global
Building on the unprecedented COP28’s multilevel action momentum
and with the upcoming CBD COP16 and Climate Change COP29 by
year-end, cities and regions have a window of opportunity to amplify
their voices in the global climate discussions.
The powerful interplay between these two critical global agendas and their impacts onpolicy-making will also shape the roadmap toward Climate Change COP30 in Belém,
Brazil, in 2025. These global processes influence local and regional initiatives, stressing
the need for global strategies to address on-the-ground challenges faced by cities,
towns, and regions worldwide.

Introduction

The power of a network

Our changing world

Spotlight
on South America

From global
to local to global

WATCH THE FULL PLENARY

 From global to local to global:

Shaping the future of sustainability

A sustainable andequitable Congress

Accelerating forwardAt the Congress, mayors and climate leaders, including Razan Al Mubarak, COP28 HighLevel Champion and President of the International Union for Conservation of Nature;
and Maimunah Mohd Sharif, Special Advisor to COP29 Presidency, emphasized that now
is the time for local and regional governments to push for an integrated approach to theclimate and nature crises, as well as cross-government action to achieve the urgently
needed transformations toward a sustainable world.

LEARN MORE

CityTalk

Seizing the moment: Local action to address
biodiversity loss and climate change

In addition, as the primary component of the first day of the ICLEI World Congress 2024,
the ICLEI Global Research & Innovation Symposium convened researchers, innovators,
urban practitioners, and investors to foster a new generation of “next practices.”
Significant topics shaped this seventh edition, including high-level plenaries on the IPCC
Special Report on Climate Change and Cities (SRCC) and discussions on agenda-setting
innovation and emerging technologies. The event also featured its signature Research& Innovation Marketplace, offering an interactive space for bridging the gap between
concepts, action, research, and financial support.

Introduction

The power of a network

Our changing world

Spotlight
on South America

From global
to local to global

A sustainable andequitable Congress

Accelerating forwardIgniting innovation, accelerating action:
The seventh triennial ICLEI Global
Research & Innovation Symposium
The Global Research & Innovation Symposium was the primary component of the first dayof the ICLEI World Congress 2024. With registration closing early due to overwhelming
demand, it brought together more than 150 in-person participants and 20 invited highlevel speakers, setting the stage for a high-energy and impactful week in São Paulo.
This full-day program was designed and delivered under ICLEI's Global Research &Innovation Strategy in partnership with Mission Innovation's Net-Zero Compatible
Innovations Initiative, UNFCCC Global Innovation Hub, Open Earth Foundation,
and Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate and Energy (GCoM), and served as acomplementary event to the upcoming Innovate4Cities 2024 Conference (I4C24) in
Montreal, Canada. The event was hosted by the São Paulo School of Management ofFundação Getulio Vargas (FGV EAESP) and supported by the University of São Paulo (USP).

Introduction

The power of a network

Our changing world

Spotlight
on South America

From global
to local to global

A sustainable andequitable Congress

Accelerating forward

Key speakers included: Diana Ürge-Vorsatz, Vice-Chair of the IPCC and Chair of the
Urban Research and Innovation Portfolio for the ICLEI Global Executive Committee;
Rodrigo Ravena, Secretary of Green and Environment, São Paulo City Hall; Jose Puppim
de Oliveira, Professor, FGV EAESP; Pedro Jacobi, President of the Board of Directors,
ICLEI South America Secretariat, and Professor at the University of São Paulo; Amelia
Clarke, Professor, University of Waterloo; Martin Wainstein, Executive Director, OpenEarth Foundation; Dennis Pamlin, Chief Executive Officer, The Net-Zero Compatibility
Initiative, Mission Innovation; David Ekelund, CEO of Icebug; Heiko Buch-Illing, CEOof the Outdoor Institute in Silkeborg, Denmark; Smita Rakesh, Partner, Social Alpha;Randy Sa'd, Executive Director, REFOCUS & Flourishing Enterprise Institute; BenjaminJance, Head of Research and Innovation, Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate andEnergy; Jeremy Eppel, Principal, NatureFinance; Urszula Kasperek, Senior Manager ofInternational Advocacy, Climate Group; Cassia Moraes, Partnerships Manager (Strategic
Programmes), EIT Climate-KIC; and Pourya Salehi, Head of Urban Research, Innovation,
and Development, ICLEI World Secretariat.
In addition to high-level plenary discussions, the Research & Innovation Marketplace delivered in partnership with I4C24 - was a highlight of the day. It gave selected pitch
makers, including mayors and city representatives, urban practitioners, academics
and international organizations, the opportunity to pitch and receive valuable
feedback from the audience and invited experts on their concepts and projects in fourthematic areas: Digitalization, Finance, Governance & Urban Planning, and Systems
Transformation.

Introduction

The power of a network

Our changing world

Spotlight
on South America

From global
to local to global

A sustainable andequitable Congress

Accelerating forward

Key outcomes of the Global Research & Innovation Symposium
Several key outcomes emerged from the day that are crucial for our collective journey
toward sustainability and climate action. They include enhancing ecosystems ofcollaboration, integrated and human needs-centered innovation, the urgent need forinnovative finance, accessibility and quality of data in digitalization, policy relevance,
and the synergy of global and local efforts.
Enhanced ecosystems of collaboration
The Symposium successfully brought together various stakeholders, including cities,
academia, business, and international organizations. This collaborative environment
emphasizes the importance of inclusive and co-created solutions, fostering a spiritof partnership essential for addressing complex global challenges and encourages
lengthening the table to include actors such as sustainability and climate startups andincubators.
Integrated and human needs-centered innovation
The event highlighted the necessity of innovation centered on human needs. Thisapproach transforms challenges into opportunities by aligning business models withenvironmental management. The Symposium showcased how sustainable solutions
can be more effectively developed and implemented, an approach encapsulated by
the Expanded Climate and Innovation Agenda and associated tools led by Mission
Innovation with ICLEI and the UNFCCC Global Innovation Hub.
The urgent need for innovative financeOne of the critical discussions at the Symposium was the pressing need for innovative
financial solutions to support sustainable initiatives. The Symposium underscoredthe gravity of this situation and the importance of developing new financial models
and investment strategies that can provide the necessary resources to drive impactfulchange and support long-term sustainability projects.

Introduction

The power of a network

Our changing world

Spotlight
on South America

From global
to local to global

A sustainable andequitable Congress

Accelerating forward

Accessibility and quality central to digitalization and leveraging newtechnologies
As digitalization and new technologies become increasingly integral to sustainability
efforts, the Symposium emphasized the importance of ensuring access to emerging
technologies and maintaining a high quality of context-relevant data. This means
ensuring that data to inform decision-making and technological advancements areavailable to all, regardless of socioeconomic status or geographical context, and thatthey are implemented in ways that enhance, rather than hinder, sustainability goals.
Policy relevance for research products
The discussions underscored the importance of producing reports and recommendations
that are policy-relevant but non-prescriptive. This means creating documents that provide
valuable insights and guidance without dictating specific actions. The IPCC Special
Report on Climate Change and Cities aims to be an example of this by incorporating theinsights of both scientists and practitioners. By integrating scientific knowledge withlocal insights, these reports can help policymakers make informed decisions tailored totheir unique contexts, ultimately leading to more effective and sustainable outcomes.
Global and local efforts
The Symposium showcased both global leadership in innovation and energy transitionand local efforts in sustainability. This dual focus highlighted the interconnectednessof these initiatives and the importance of collaboration across different levels. By
recognizing and supporting global and local efforts, the Symposium emphasized theneed for a comprehensive approach to sustainability that leverages the strengthsof diverse stakeholders and addresses challenges from multiple angles. Especiallyhighlighted was the ongoing and future work of Brazilian cities to lead on innovative
solutions in the run-up to COP30 in Belém.
One key influence of the Symposium was the ongoing development of the IPCC Special
Report on Climate Change and Cities. With Vice-Chair of the IPCC, Diana Ürge-Vorsatz
leading the conversation in this regard, she highlighted the need for multifaceted,holistic innovation, including progressive policy and societal engagement and leveraging
the knowledge and expertise of both scientists and practitioners to address complex
climate challenges.

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The insights and collaborations from the Global Research & Innovation Symposium
were disseminated to the broader World Congress at two research and innovation
panel discussions on the final day, and will inform discussions at I4C24 later in the year
in Montreal, Canada, and subsequent knowledge products. This continuity ensures thatthe momentum and innovative spirit generated at the Symposium will drive further
discussions and actions, fostering a global network of stakeholders committed tosustainable urban development and climate resilience.
To learn more about the Global Research & Innovation Symposium, visit: placeholder
for the website

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Anchoring the São Paulo Urban Summit
The ICLEI World Congress 2024 was the main event of the São Paulo Urban Summit, aweek full of activities that highlighted the fundamental role of cities.
During the week, in addition to the Congress, there was a preparatory meeting of
Urban 20, a G20 Engagement Group that brings together cities from G20 countries
to inform and influence national leaders’ discussions. As Brazil officially assumes thepresidency of the G20, replacing India, Brazilian cities will lead the U20, elevating thevoices of urban centers at the heart of the G20 economies. The aim of the U20 is tofacilitate lasting engagement between the G20 and cities, raise the profile of urban issues
on the G20 agenda, and establish a forum for cities to develop a collective message andperspective to formally contribute to the G20 negotiations.
The week also included the Metropolis Board of Directors Meeting, further reinforcing
the importance of cities on the global stage, and the Mercociudades Board meeting thatwarned of the serious consequences of climate change in cities in Latin America anddelivered the “São Paulo Declaration”.

Side events during the Congress
On June 17, 18, and 20, the Secretary of Environment and Infrastructure of theGovernment of the State of São Paulo hosted ICLEI World Congress side events andpartner meetings. The 27 events showcased important actions and commitments
such as the Nature Positive Call to Action of the High Level Champions Team, the Letterof Commitment for the CHAMP initiative of the National Mayors Front (FNP), and theSustainable Development Index for Brazilian Cities (IDSC) from the Brazilian Programof Sustainable Cities, PSC. A session focused on unraveling climate finance and led by
GCoM, GIZ, Gap Fund, and the ABDE, along with a matchmaking event driven by CDP
and GCoM, brought together SBDs, investment facilities, and companies to discuss ways
to enhance climate finance projects in cities.

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The first Hemispheric Dialogue of the Cities Forward initiative, - a joint venture involving
24 cities in the Americas (12 in the U.S. and 12 in Latin America and the Caribbean), theU.S. Department of State, three regional and country offices of ICLEI, Resilient Cities
Catalyst, and the Institute of the Americas, facilitated by esteemed panelists, highlighted
the need for cross-sector collaboration in tackling climate change and sustainability.
The key takeaway was the necessity for ambition, realism, and optimism in enhancing
community life.
Other ICLEI World Congress side events led by Regions4, the Mercociudades network,
the Barcelona Centre for International Affairs (CIDOB), the American Red Cross and
RCRC Climate Centre, the State of São Paulo, and the ICLEI regional offices stressed
a common vision to address climate and nature crisis.

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Cases from thematic track: Mechanisms for change
Cities globally are adopting diverse mechanisms to address climate change and promote sustainability, driven by collaborative efforts
across sectors and levels of government. These transformative actions include citizen-led planning processes, youth engagement
programs, and integrating indigenous knowledge. Many cities are taking integrated and holistic approaches to environmental policies
and their financial, energy efficiency, and sustainable procurement strategies, making their local actions resonate on a global scale.

Including indigenous
voices in climate action
Toronto, Canada

Banning Pesticides
Montreal, Canada

Transforming a library
into a resilience center
Sun Prairie, USA
Fort Collins, USA
Financing theenergy transition
Austin, USA
Pacting for biodiversity

Encouraging sustainableprocurement
Malmö, Sweden

Advancing sustainability
through accountability
Hoboken, USA
Matosinhos Portugal
Improving energy
efficiency
Baltimore, USA
Applying climate action witheffective communication

Lahti, Finland
Bridging natureand healthBonn, Germany
Building citizen-centric
climate action
Istanbul, Türkiye
Mastering earthquake
prevention

Yucatan State, Mexico
Cultivating for healing

Cape Coast, Ghana
Community-driven
tree planting

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Rosario, Argentina
Pioneering the local
stocktake in Latin America

Our changing world

Driving youth climate action
Nansana, Uganda
Kampala, Uganda
Amplifying youth voices

Guangzhou, China
Leading waste management

Kochi, India
Resettling a flood-prone
community with equity

Del Carmen, Philippines
Leading nature-based
solutions

Lusaka, Zambia
Advancing climate mitigation
and adaptation

Francisco Morato, Brazil
Strategizing through citizen
assemblies
Vitacura, Chile
Piloting an organic
waste plan

Chengdu, China
Pioneering the “park city”
concept

Cape Town, South Africa
Restoring urban nature

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to local to global

Yarra, Australia
Pioneering carbon
neutrality

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Cases from thematic track: Mechanisms for change
AFRICA
Cape Coast, Ghana: Community-driven tree planting
Cape Coast aligns with Ghana's policy to plant 6 million trees annually through sharedand equitable responsibility. On planting day, everyone—from street vendors to themayor—participates without compensation. The city ensures success by engaging thecommunity early, explaining the initiative's importance, and fostering a collective spirit.
Cape Town, South Africa: Restoring urban nature
Under UNEP’s Generation Restoration Cities program, which includes multi stakeholder
collaboration, Cape Town enhances its natural environment by restoring wetlands,
rehabilitating coastal dune systems, removing invasive species, and fostering indigenous
vegetation.
Kampala, Uganda: Amplifying youth voices
Last year, Kampala hosted a youth-led local stocktake with over 100 young participantsfrom climate NGOs, indigenous communities, and civil society. The aim was to amplify
youth voices in the Global Stocktake ahead of COP28.
Lusaka, Zambia: Advancing climate mitigation and adaptation
Lusaka’s local stocktake, held ahead of COP28, brought together the city's 33 Wards—
localized administrative units—to establish the responsibilities of Ward Development
Committees in advancing climate mitigation and adaptation. One key responsibility iscontributing to a city-wide natural resource inventory.
Nansana, Uganda: Driving youth climate action
Nansana's 2020-2025 development plan prioritizes youth involvement in climate
strategies. It supports innovations, education, awareness programs, and genderresponsive solutions. Youth clubs receive training on environmental protection andstart-up capital for climate adaptation and mitigation.

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EAST ASIA
Chengdu, China: Pioneering the "park city" concept
In 2021, Chengdu became China's first national "park city" standardization pilot area. The
city has implemented this concept through urban planning, environmental protection,and industrial development, totaling 1,556 parks with over 80% of its original landforms
preserved.
Guangzhou, China: Leading waste management
The Likeng Waste-to-Energy Plant in Guangzhou converts waste into usable energy,
processing 1,000 metric tons of garbage daily from 100,000 families. The plant generates
electricity to power 15,000 households, showcasing an efficient approach to waste
management and energy production.

EUROPE​​
Bonn,
Germany: Building citizen-centric climate action
The Bonn4Future Plan is the city's most extensive participation initiative. Over two
years, more than 320 randomly selected citizens, stakeholders, and city experts actively
contributed through special climate days, forums, and a digital sustainability platform.
The outcome: the Citizens' Climate Action Plan, which is now being integrated into theBonn Climate Plan 2035.
Istanbul, Türkiye: Mastering earthquake prevention
The Earthquake Master Plan of Istanbul offers a new approach to urban seismic risk
management that considers both natural and human hazards. It involves public
administration, businesses, NGOs, and local communities in unified risk management
through agreements and subprojects.
Lahti, Finland: Bridging nature and health
The "Nature Step to Health" program is a comprehensive 10-year initiative aiming
to improve public health, mitigate climate change, enhance adaptation, increase
biodiversity, and foster collaboration between environmental and health sectors.

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Accelerating forwardMalmö, Sweden: Encouraging sustainable procurement
The city recently developed procurement criteria for several tenders based on universal
design principles to make physical infrastructure, goods and services accessible topeople of all ages, sizes and abilities. For this approach, the city won the Procura+Innovation Procurement of the Year award.
Matosinhos, Portugal: Improving energy efficiency
The Matosinhos Energy Hub provides a one-stop shop for citizens and housing
managers, offering support for energy efficiency solutions, renewable energy, funding
opportunities, and implementation assistance.

MEXICO, CENTRAL AMERICA AND THE CARIBBEAN
Yucatan State, Mexico: Cultivating for healing
Yucatan implements the One Health approach, emphasizing the need to harmonize
urban development with nature for the planet's and its people's well-being. Initiatives
include community engagement to cultivate neglected Mayan native fruits withnutritious and healing properties.

NORTH AMERICA
Austin, USA: Pacting for biodiversity
Ahead of CBD COP16, Austin became a pioneer signatory of the Berlin Urban Nature
Pact, working towards a global biodiversity agenda. This action showcases the city’scommitment to implementing the 23 targets from the Kunming-Montreal framework to
curb biodiversity loss by 2030.
Baltimore, USA: Applying climate action with effective communication
The city launched a community survey to inform its newly updated Climate Action
Plan. Instead of using the term “climate change” - which generates resistance in someresidents - they opted for more precise questions about how individuals pay their energy
bills, use public transit, and manage extreme weather conditions.

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Accelerating forwardFort Collins, USA: Financing the energy transition
Under the Epic Home program, Fort Collins offers tenants and owners loans up to$50,000 for energy efficiency upgrades and solar systems. The loans have low rates anddon’t require any money down. Repayments are made through monthly utility bills.
Hoboken, USA: Advancing sustainability through accountability
The city has adopted a bold strategy to hold big oil companies accountable for climate
damages. It intends to make fossil fuel companies compensate for climate-related
losses, such as storm surges and flooding.
Montreal, Canada: Banning pesticides
Montreal passed a bylaw regulating pesticide sales and use to protect public health,preserve the environment, and conserve biodiversity. The bylaw bans over 35 dangerous
molecules found in these products.
Sun Prairie, USA: Transforming a library into a resilience center
Frequent storms that cut electricity have prompted the transformation of the public
library. Solar panels and batteries will enable the building to become a microgrid that
supports medical equipment, hosts local radio and TV stations to keep people informed,
and provides communication stations. It will also include a storm shelter.
Toronto, Canada: Including Indigenous voices in climate action
Toronto’s Indigenous Climate Action Grant supports the city’s strategy to achieve netzero emissions by 2040. The city is committed to working with Indigenous rights holders
and urban Indigenous communities to share knowledge and learning.

OCEANIA
Yarra, Australia: Pioneering carbon neutrality
In 2012, Yarra became the second council in Australia to achieve carbon neutrality under
the Climate Active certification. Working closely with the national government, Yarra's
strategy included measuring emissions, eliminating waste, improving energy efficiency,
and switching to zero-emission technologies powered by renewable electricity.

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SOUTH AMERICAFrancisco Morato, Brazil: Strategizing through citizen assemblies
The city was part of the Decidadania program, an initiative organized by Delibera Brasilin partnership with ICLEI South America and the School of Parliament, with the aimof promoting Citizens' Assemblies focused on the climate agenda in Brazilian cities.
Francisco Morato’s citizens worked together, providing recommendations on contentious
sustainability topics that directly impact residents to guide the city's climate strategies.
Rosario, Argentina: Pioneering the local stocktake in Latin America
In 2023, Rosario was the only Latin American municipality to hold a local stocktake,showcasing its efforts to global progress to counter climate change. With high community
involvement, the event discussed the city's Climate Action Plan on energy, transport,
waste, and social and economic inequalities.
Vitacura, Chile: Piloting an organic waste plan
Vitacura's pilot plan for organic waste involves 1,100 homes, high schools, universities,
and city offices. Each is provided with a kit that includes a container and compostablebag collected weekly. The waste is sent to a treatment plant and returned as compost
for public and educational use. The project has 97% of residents' approval.

SOUTH ASIA
Kochi, India: Resettling a flood-prone community with equity
Kochi faced the challenge of resettling a slum community vulnerable to flooding. The
city allocated the best available land instead of relocating it to the cheapest land, as is
the common standard. This approach prevented uprooting children from their schools
and allowed residents to continue worshiping at local temples.

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SOUTHEAST ASIA

LEARN MORE

Del Carmen, Philippines: Leading nature-based solutions
Since 2010, Del Carmen's Mangrove Management Program has grown and protected aforest that successfully shielded the island during a 2021 super typhoon. The city also
focuses on marine protected areas, watershed management, and seagrass restoration,
earning global recognition and awards for these nature-based solutions.

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CityTalk

Cities can bring CHAMP to life

A sustainable andequitable Congress

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CONGRESS OUTCOME

Call to national associations of local governments to support CHAMP
and multilevel climate action
Mayor Katja Dörner, City of Bonn, Germany, and chair of the Climate Action Governance
Portfolio for the ICLEI Global Executive Committee made a call-to-action inviting all ICLEI
leaders to proactively approach their national governments and national associationsof local governments for multilevel NDCs by 2025. This call builds on outcomes from
COP28 and the Coalition for High Ambition Multilevel Partnerships for Climate Action(CHAMP) initiative, which has been signed by 72 countries and is an effort intended toenhance cooperation with subnational governments in financing, implementation, andthe monitoring of climate strategies.

MEDIA
SPOTLIGHT
U.S. cities are raising climate ambition throughsubnational diplomacy
National associations of cities and city leaders,
including in the United States, are taking
country-level climate goals into their own
hands, by advocating for stronger participationof subnational governments in climate decisionmaking.

Leaders were also invited to report their progress at the annual Daring Cities Forum.
This followed an announcement on the first day of the Congress that Frente Nacionalde Prefeitas e Prefeitos (FNP) – Brazil’s national association of cities – released a letter ofcommitment (PT) in which mayors pledged their support for CHAMP. This was followed
by a similar resolution by the United States Conference of Mayors later in the week.
CONGRESS OUTCOME

Cities and Regions Biodiversity Summit announced for the CBD COP16
in Cali, Colombia
The 8th Summit for Subnational Governments and Cities, an official parallel event to CBD
COP16, will take place on 26 October 2024 in the Blue Zone at the CBD COP in Cali, andis part of a 3-day program from 25-27 October. Announced by ICLEI and the City of Cali
at the Congress, the Summit will continue a proud tradition, being the eighth such event
since the first Summit convened 14 years ago.
At CBD COP16, nations will be tasked with reviewing the state of implementation of theKunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. Parties to the Convention are expected
to show the alignment of their National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAPs)
with the Framework. CDB COP16 will further develop the monitoring framework andadvance resource mobilization for the Global Biodiversity Framework.

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CONGRESS OUTCOME

New contributors to the Local and Subnational Governments
Coalition to end plastic pollution
In April 2024, with the Government of Quebec, Government of Catalonia, UCLG, andfurther partners, ICLEI launched the Local and Subnational Governments Coalition to
end plastic pollution. The purpose of the Coalition is to ensure that an ambitious but
practical instrument is collectively shaped with local and subnational governments
and ensures the participation and resourcing of local and subnational governments
to contribute to ending plastic pollution. During the Congress, cities and subnational
governments from five continents added their voice to the Coalition. The state of Rio deJaneiro and the city of Goyang, South Korea, were among those who joined the Coalitionof Local and Subnational Governments to end plastic pollution, strengthening ICLEI's
efforts in circular economy and environmental impact reduction.

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A sustainable andequitable Congress

Accelerating forwardA sustainable andequitable Congress
The ICLEI World Congress 2024 in São Paulo exemplifies a commitment
to sustainability and equity in event planning and execution.
Hosted in the eco-friendly Ibirapuera Park, the event minimized its environmental
impact through thoughtful venue selection, sustainable catering, and waste reduction
strategies. Simultaneously, it prioritized inclusivity with accessible facilities, multilingual
support, and diverse representation. By integrating these principles, the ICLEI World
Congress 2024 not only discussed sustainability and equity but embodied these values,
setting a standard for responsible and inclusive global gatherings.

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Sustainability at the ICLEI World
Congress 2024
To align with our mission, ICLEI endeavored to deliver a sustainable event for all
attendees at the ICLEI World Congress 2024.
A special feature of the Congress was hosting the core components inside the famous
Ibirapuera Park in São Paulo. This unique venue allowed participants to experience
the Atlantic Forest (Mata Atlântica), the second largest rainforest in the world after the
Amazon Rainforest. The venue, Pavilhão das Culturas Brasileiras, was designed byrenowned Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer in the 1950s, featured a natural lighting
system that significantly reduced the event's ecological footprint.

Our commitment to sustainability
We committed to delivering a sustainable event for all our attendees with thesupport of the municipal investment and export promotion agency SP Negócios, theimplementer of the event, by working to:•

Find sustainable catering with a variety of dietary options;•

Limit onsite waste including single use products;•

Offer environmentally responsible accommodation options;•

Provide water bottle filling stations on site;•

Encourage the use of public or shared transit through accessible locations;•

Limit the use of paper for event materials and communications;•

Procure materials and services locally where possible;•

Utilize natural lighting already abundant inside the venue.

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Aligned with ICLEI’s mandate, Urbia Parks,
the concessionaire responsible for managing
Ibirapuera Park, uses an advanced sorting
station that selects recyclables to be sent tocooperatives. These recyclables are circulated
until they can be resold to industry. Organic
waste is processed in a biodigester and turned
into fertilizer for the park.

A sustainable andequitable Congress

Accelerating forwardEquity at the ICLEI World Congress 2024
Our goal was to create an event that was both accessible and inclusive, reflecting ourcommitment to equity and representation. Our approach encompassed a range ofstrategies designed to ensure that every participant felt welcomed and valued.
We worked to seek equity in every aspect of the Congress, from linguistic accessibility
to local community support, from venue accessibility to diverse catering options. This
commitment to accessibility not only enhanced the event's overall atmosphere but also
ensured that everyone, regardless of background or ability, could participate fully andcomfortably.

Our commitment to equity
In line with ICLEI’s Equitable Events Guidelines, developed as a part of the last ICLEIWorld Congress in Malmö, Sweden, we committed to delivering an accessible andinclusive Congress in 2024. In order to achieve this goal we:•

Ensured venue accessibility including ramps and clear tape marking on stairs;•

Ensured event accessibility through features such as interpretation between
Portuguese, English and Spanish and the use of sign language interpreters;•

Provided catering with diverse food options for dietary restrictions;•

Offered a diverse event program that included representatives from different
regions, genders, age groups, etc;•

Prioritized accessibility in communications and digital channels;•

Provided moderators, speakers, and key staff with equity guidelines;•

Provided reliable internet connection for digital resources and accessibility tools;•

Facilitated opportunities for participants to share experiences and explore thepark and city together.

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A special equity feature at this Congress weresign language interpreters who supported
interpretation
betweenPortuguese
andBrazilian Sign Language at all plenaries andthematic sessions. Brazil is one of 77 countries
in which sign language is legally recognized and
it is one of the earlier countries to take this step.

A sustainable andequitable Congress

Accelerating forward

Accelerating forward:
Mapping our path to 2030
Our collective journey towards sustainable development is only gaining
momentum.
At the ICLEI World Congress 2024, we connected, collaborated, and committed toinnovative projects, impactful partnerships, and strategic initiatives that will drive our
network forward in our shared mission for a sustainable future. These collaborations are
crucial for enhancing collective local action on sustainability and achieving the ambitious
goals set out in the ICLEI Strategic Vision 2024-2030.
As instability threatens the globe, we need to prepare our communities to adapt and respondto current and future challenges. Local and regional governments need to prioritize inclusive
approaches to policy-making and implementation, actively engaging and collaborating with
underrepresented segments of the community. This means a transition for the role of local
and regional governments from service providers to community enablers.

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WATCH THE FINAL CLOSING PLENARY

 Accelerating forward:

Mapping our path to 2030

A sustainable andequitable Congress

Accelerating forward

The ICLEI World Congress 2024 featured the stories of communities that are doing justthat, showcasing approaches that ICLEI Members use to equitably and sustainably adapt,
anticipate and respond to present and future challenges, especially those that bring new
voices to the table, including youth, vulnerable groups and community-based groups.
We are focused on charting the path ahead, ensuring that our efforts as a global network
continue to accelerate. Thank you to our amazing host, the City of São Paulo, Brazil;
our highly committed Members around the world; all of our partners and donors; andeveryone working with us to harness the power of our network to create lasting change
for communities worldwide.

We look forward to seeing you at the next ICLEI World Congress in 2027!

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Accelerating forward