Cities Embracing the Net Zero Economy: A Response to Trump's Paris Withdrawal
Key Ideas
- Cities worldwide are driving the net zero economy forward to remain globally competitive, focusing on renewable energy, electromobility, smart cities, hydrogen, circular economy, and biophilic urbanism.
- Financial commitments to the net zero agenda have reached $2 trillion with $80 trillion more in planning stages, showcasing the commercial viability and growth potential of these initiatives.
- Despite Trump's Paris Agreement withdrawal, cities like Fremantle continue to prioritize sustainability in urban development projects, supporting the transition towards a net zero economy.
- Household-based projects, such as Electrify the Valley and the upcoming Household Guide to Net Zero, are gaining momentum, highlighting the grassroots support for sustainable initiatives.
Peter Newman, a Professor of Sustainability at Curtin University, discusses how cities, including Fremantle, are responding to Trump's withdrawal from the Paris Agreement by embracing the net zero economy. The 'We Are Still In' movement, initiated by Seth Schulz after Trump's announcement, has garnered significant support from cities, states, and companies, representing over 60% of the US economy. This movement has led to $9.5 trillion commitments towards the net zero economy, influencing the development of city-based climate resilience organizations globally. Investments in renewable energy, electromobility, smart cities, hydrogen, circular economy, and biophilic urbanism are driving the net zero economic agenda, with $2 trillion already committed and $80 trillion in the planning stage.
Cities are recognizing the importance of transitioning to a net zero economy to remain competitive in finance, talent, and quality of life. Despite national setbacks, cities are leading the charge towards sustainability, with local projects like the Hesperia redevelopment, Future of Fremantle, and Westport project incorporating these principles. Household-based initiatives, such as Electrify the Valley, are on the rise, signaling grassroots support for sustainable practices. Overall, the article emphasizes the hope for cities in the net zero economy and the importance of not letting political barriers hinder progress.
Topics
Cities
Renewable Energy
Sustainability
Urban Development
Smart Cities
Economic Opportunities
Climate Resilience
Circular Economy
Local Level
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