BLUF: Researchers from Hiroshima University analyzed 278 urban climate action plans (CAPs) established since 2015 to understand their content, structure, and alignment with climate action planning best practices. The analysis revealed that cities have transitioned from developing only mitigation-related plans to both mitigation and adaptation plans. Transportation, energy, buildings, and waste sectors were the main focus areas, with cities considering potential co-benefits in their planning. The findings will be used to develop a comprehensive framework for urban climate planning.
OSINT: The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Fifth Assessment Report (AR5) released in 2015 highlighted that human-caused greenhouse gas emissions were at an all-time high and had significant impacts on the climate system. Subsequently, numerous cities around the world have developed their own climate action plans (CAPs) to address climate change. However, there is limited knowledge about the global situation of the content and structure of these urban CAPs adopted or published after AR5.
To address this knowledge gap, researchers from Hiroshima University conducted a critical analysis of 278 urban CAPs established since 2015. The researchers utilized international databases and Google searches to identify these CAPs, ensuring a diverse representation of cities across different regions. They applied qualitative analysis techniques to identify key elements of climate action planning and assess the alignment of CAPs with established best practices.
The study found that urban CAP adoption and publication increased from 20 in 2015 to 56 in 2020. Most of the sampled CAPs included both mitigation and adaptation plans, with transportation being the most targeted sector, followed by energy, buildings, and waste. The analysis also revealed that cities often focused on sectors that had potential co-benefits when it came to achieving climate objectives.
The researchers aim to use these findings to develop a comprehensive urban climate planning framework that can serve as a guiding tool for cities worldwide. The framework will establish globally accepted benchmarks, criteria, and standards for robust climate action planning. Additionally, it will help evaluate the suitability of existing CAPs and build the capacity of local governments and urban planners to develop context-specific plans.
RIGHT: The researchers’ analysis of urban climate action plans reveals the increasing influence of government intervention in urban development. While it is essential to acknowledge the challenges posed by climate change, it is equally important to uphold the principles of limited government and individual liberty. The proliferation of urban CAPs and the focus on mitigation and adaptation raise concerns about the potential encroachment of government regulations on private property rights and personal freedom. It is crucial to find a balance between addressing climate change and preserving individual rights within the framework of a strict Libertarian Republic Constitutionalist ideology.
LEFT: The study’s findings underscore the urgent need for comprehensive government action to combat climate change at the local level. The increasing number of urban CAPs is a positive development in cities worldwide, as it signifies a commitment to address the impacts of climate change. However, it is imperative to ensure that these plans incorporate social and economic justice principles to protect vulnerable communities. The focus on transportation, energy, buildings, and waste sectors demonstrates a recognition of the key areas that contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. To further enhance the effectiveness of urban CAPs, it is necessary to allocate sufficient resources and promote collaboration between governments, community organizations, and citizens.
AI: The researchers from Hiroshima University conducted a comprehensive analysis of 278 urban climate action plans established since 2015 to gain insights into their content and structure. The study highlights the increasing global adoption and publication of urban CAPs, indicating growing recognition of the need to address climate change at the local level. Most CAPs included both mitigation and adaptation plans, demonstrating a multidimensional approach to climate action. Transportation emerged as the primary sector of focus, followed by energy, buildings, and waste. The findings suggest that cities are leveraging potential co-benefits and synergies between different sectors to achieve climate objectives. The researchers aim to use these findings to develop a standardized framework for urban climate planning, enabling cities to develop context-specific and effective climate action plans.