A majority of the world’s population inhabits cities where climate risks and their impacts are becoming increasingly detrimental. Between 2015 and 2020, urban population growth has increased by over 397 million people, with 90% of that increase in less developed regions, per the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). Their energy systems, infrastructure, and human well-being are being negatively impacted by environmental hazards such as floods, droughts, heatwaves, and the rise of sea levels. These countries often contribute the least to global warming and, yet, are the most vulnerable.
The IPCC’s latest report states that cities’ climate risks have significantly increased, particularly in informal settlements with limited access to basic services. For example, in Brazil, during an extensive flood in 2019, residents in favelas – urban slums – received insufficient government assistance to overcome their losses and damages. This left residents in disarray and is an issue that is only worsened by climate change and insufficient climate finance. Without proper financial resources, low-income and vulnerable populations face the brunt of increasing greenhouse gas emissions and rapid industrialization.
IPCC scientists state that climate change is connected to trends in growing urbanization and the unsustainable use of natural resources. The combination of an increasing population, inadequate climate finance, and a lack of sufficient resiliency plans places these vulnerable communities in pathways of harm.“Growing urbanization and climate change create complex risks, especially for those cities that already experience poorly planned urban growth, high levels of poverty and unemployment, and a lack of basic services,” said IPCC Working Group II Co-Chair Debra Roberts.
Cities are vulnerable to the consequences of climate change, but increasing evidence shows that cities have the power to adapt. Cities can assist in the successful implementation of climate resilient development by implementing inclusive planning strategies that integrate climate change concerns into urban infrastructure including social and ecological infrastructures. By using governmental structures, sustainable development techniques, and other innovative strategies, can cities have successful adaptation despite their vulnerability to climate change.
Already, 170 countries and cities have included adaptation into their climate and planning processes, achieved by an increase in public and political awareness of the severity of climate impacts and risks. “… cities also provide opportunities for climate action–green buildings, reliable supplies of clean water and renewable energy, and sustainable transport systems that connect urban and rural areas can all lead to a more inclusive, fairer society,” said Debra Roberts.
However, inadequate climate finance, a lack of technical resources, and limited government capacity have made large-scale adaptation difficult. Climate-vulnerable countries are in a tricky predicament of being the most vulnerable, and yet the least able to do anything about it. If global warming exceeds 1.5℃, then climate resilient development may be impossible to implement.
Next week’s IPCC blog post will conclude with the last key message of the IPCC report: climate resilient development.