By 2050, around 70% of the global population will be living in cities. City life will drive 80% of total global energy, resource demand and 70% of GHG emissions. A well designed city, can open the pathway to WBCSD’s vision of creating a world in which more than nine billion people live well and within the limits of the planet, offering opportunities for a good quality lifestyle at a lower footprint.
Globally, sustainability issues are well understood, however at the local level, every city has its own challenges and priorities. Cities need to involve their citizens and stakeholders in defining their challenges and ambitions.
The role of the private sector is critical to make cities more sustainable. Business has the expertise, the strategic interest and the financial capacity to provide sustainable solutions. These solutions have to contribute to a city’s overall sustainability ambition.
Business needs to work with cities and other stakeholders to understand and define a city’s sustainability ambition.