On 2-6 September 2024, Quezon City Council hosted the C40’s UCAP CAI Southeast Asia Regional Academy Southeast Asia Regional Academy, uniting city leaders, policymakers, and delegates from the cities of Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), Jakarta (Indonesia), and Quezon (Philippines) to fast-track inclusive climate action.
The week-long event is part of the Climate Action Implementation (CAI) programme, supported by the UK government’s Urban Climate Action Programme (UCAP), to help cities share experiences and climate solutions, especially those that include the most vulnerable citizens.
The academy served as a platform for city representatives to share best practices, engage in discussions, and participate in hands-on learning activities designed to turn knowledge into actionable policies.
Mayor of Freetown and C40 Cities Co-Chair, Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr, emphasized the importance of community involvement in tackling climate change, stating that building resilience requires local leadership and commitment. She highlighted that while climate change is a global crisis, the response must be led by cities and their communities.
Mayor of Quezon City, Joy Belmonte, highlighted the severe impact of climate change on vulnerable communities, stressing that for them, it’s a matter of survival, not just an environmental issue. She noted Quezon City’s commitment to sustainability and inclusivity through bold climate action plans, supported by C40 Cities, that integrate environmental governance into the city’s vision.
This gathering is part of a bigger effort to help cities in Southeast Asia, Africa and Latin America make climate action more inclusive and impactful. With cities facing growing climate challenges, these collaborations are vital for sharing ideas, supporting each other, and building a future where everyone has a role in creating a more sustainable world.
Source: https://www.c40.org/news/southeast-asian-cities-unite-quezon-city-inclusive-climate-action/