II Lidera Nordeste Model United Nations

United Nations Environment Programme

The right use of resources to promote a sustainable urban development

Mariana Rodrigues Chaves

José Wagner Paixão dos Santos
Felipe Barretto Távora

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 Summary

1. Chairs’ letter........................................................................................................................... 3
2. The United Nations Environment Programme ...................................................................... 4
3. Historical Context .................................................................................................................. 5
4. The Issue ................................................................................................................................ 6
5. Chronological Order .............................................................................................................. 8
6. Conclusion ............................................................................................................................. 9
7. Key questions ....................................................................................................................... 11
8. Bloc Positions ...................................................................................................................... 12
8.1. Argentine Republic ..................................................................................................... 12
8.2. Commonwealth of Australia ....................................................................................... 12
8.3. Federative Republic of Brazil ..................................................................................... 12
8.4. Canada......................................................................................................................... 12
8.5. People's Republic of China ......................................................................................... 13
8.6. Republic of Colombia ................................................................................................. 13
8.7. Arab Republic of Egypt .............................................................................................. 13
8.8. French Republic .......................................................................................................... 13
8.9. Federal Republic of Germany ..................................................................................... 14
8.10. Republic of India....................................................................................................... 14
8.11. Republic of Indonesia ............................................................................................... 14
8.12. Italian Republic ......................................................................................................... 14
8.13. Japan ......................................................................................................................... 15
8.14. United Mexican States .............................................................................................. 15
8.15. Federal Republic of Nigeria ...................................................................................... 15
8.16. Republic of Poland .................................................................................................... 15
8.17. Russian Federation .................................................................................................... 16
8.18. Republic of South Africa .......................................................................................... 16
8.19. Republic of Korea ..................................................................................................... 16

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 8.20. Kingdom of Spain ..................................................................................................... 16
8.21. Kingdom of Sweden ................................................................................................. 17
8.22. Swiss Confederation ................................................................................................. 17
8.23. Republic of Turkey ................................................................................................... 17
8.24. United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland ........................................... 18
8.25. United States of America .......................................................................................... 18
9. Bibliography ........................................................................................................................ 18

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 1. Chairs’ letter

Dear delegates,
It is an honor to see your interest in participating in UNEP, which, although being a
recommendatory committee, works with the most important topic of the past, the present and
the future: the environment. The fact that you attend UN simulations, regardless of the
committee, and persist in the search for knowledge is a great act of courage. More than that,
you will be debating in English, being examples of what effort means. Congratulations!
We would like to express our gratitude and admiration for your participation in the
LNORD MUN. We can tell you that, as well as being challenging, this experience will be an
opportunity for you to be the best delegates possible. However, when we talk about the best
delegates, we don't expect you to be the ones who put your names in the speaker’s list the most,
write the most documents or propose the most innovative resolutions, but we do expect and
believe in your potential to overcome your limits and get out of your comfort zones. Above all,
we encourage you to express yourselves in a respectful and diplomatic manner, so that at the
end of this committee, you will be better than when you started!
Finally, we would like to remind you that this guide has been written with the aim of
providing you with some background on the subject and your foreign policies. However, we
strongly encourage you to do your research and seek out external sources to expand your
knowledge of the subject and the country you will be representing. Remember that this model
UN is a valuable opportunity for learning and growing as a student. Don't be afraid to take on
challenges, express yourselves and defend the opinions of your country. Take advantage of this
opportunity to learn, build friendships and develop yourselves as future leaders. We are looking
forward to seeing you all shining in UNEP!
Sincerely,
Mariana Chaves, Felipe Barreto Távora and José Wagner Paixão dos Santos

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 2. The United Nations Environment Programme

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), a part of the United Nations
board, is the leading global authority on the environment. The mission of the organization is
to inspire, inform, and enable nations and peoples to improve their quality of life without
compromising that of future generations.

For over 50 years, UNEP has worked with governments, civil society, the private sector
and UN entities to address humanity’s most pressing environmental challenges - from restoring
the ozone layer to protecting the world's seas and promoting a green, inclusive economy. Also,
UNEP is drilling down on the root causes of the future planetary crisis: climate change, nature
and biodiversity loss and pollution.

UNEP’s work is focused on helping the 193 Member States of the organization to
achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. It includes the transition to low-carbon and
resource-efficient economies, strengthening environmental governance and law, safeguarding
ecosystems, and providing evidence-based data to inform policy decisions.

That way, during the UN Environment Assemblies - the world’s highest-level decision-
making body on the environment - UNEP works closely with countries, representatives from
civil society, businesses, and other major groups to address the main world challenges related
to this topic.

So, it is expected that the delegates of this committee to keep their resolutions inside
some of the following spheres: Air biosafety, cities, digital transformations, disasters and
conflicts, energy, environmental rights and governance, extractives, forests, fresh water,
gender, green economy, ocean, seas and coasts, resource efficiency, transport, youth, education
and environment

Finally, UNEP has a leading role, as part of the UN, in defining the Sustainable
Development Goals, the main goals of the world to reach the most efficient use of resources.
They are the following:

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 3. Historical Context

The historical context of sustainable urban development spans millennia, reflecting the
evolution of human civilization and its relationship with the environment. Ancient civilizations,
such as Mesopotamia and ancient Egypt, demonstrated early examples of urban planning
focused on efficient resource management and infrastructure development. These societies
recognized the importance of water management, sanitation, and sustainable agriculture in
sustaining urban life. However, with the onset of the industrial revolution in the 18th century,
urbanization underwent rapid acceleration, leading to unprecedented challenges such as
overcrowding, pollution, and poor living conditions.

During the industrial revolution, cities became centers of manufacturing and commerce,
attracting masses of people seeking employment opportunities. However, this rapid
urbanization also resulted in significant environmental degradation and social inequality. Cities
lacked adequate infrastructure to accommodate the influx of people, leading to overcrowded
slums, unsanitary living conditions, and rampant pollution from industrial activities. In
response to these challenges, early urban reform movements emerged, advocating for improved
living standards, public health initiatives, and urban planning regulations. The 20th century
witnessed a shift towards greater awareness of environmental issues and the emergence of
sustainability principles in urban planning. The devastating impacts of pollution, resource
depletion, and climate change spurred efforts to promote more sustainable urban development
practices. Visionaries like Ebenezer Howard and Le Corbusier proposed utopian urban designs
that emphasized green spaces, efficient transportation systems, and social welfare.

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 Additionally, international organizations such as the United Nations began addressing
environmental concerns through initiatives like the Stockholm Conference on the Human
Environment in 1972.

The late 20th and early 21st centuries marked a turning point in the global recognition
of the importance of sustainable urban development. Rapid urbanization in developing
countries, coupled with growing concerns about climate change and biodiversity loss,
underscored the need for holistic approaches to urban planning. Concepts like smart cities,
ecodistricts, and resilient urban ecosystems gained prominence as cities sought innovative
solutions to mitigate environmental impacts and enhance quality of life for residents.

Today, sustainable urban development has become a global priority, with governments,
businesses, and civil society organizations collaborating to address pressing urban challenges.
International initiatives like the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
provide a framework for promoting sustainable cities and communities worldwide. However,
achieving truly sustainable urban development requires concerted efforts to integrate
environmental, social, and economic considerations into urban planning processes and
decision-making. In conclusion, the historical context of sustainable urban development
highlights the interconnectedness of human societies and the natural environment. From
ancient civilizations to the present day, cities have played a central role in shaping human
civilization and impacting the planet. By learning from past successes and failures, the current
humanity can work towards building cities that are resilient, inclusive, and environmentally
sustainable for future generations.

4. The Issue

Sustainable urban development has traversed a historical trajectory mirroring

humanity's relationship with the environment. The industrial era brought about unprecedented
urban growth, introducing challenges like overcrowding, pollution, and inadequate
infrastructure. This necessitated early urban reform movements, laying the groundwork for
integrating environmental considerations into urban planning. Despite progress, sustainable
urban development grapples with multifaceted challenges. Urban sprawl, a phenomenon
marked by unplanned expansion, poses significant threats such as increased carbon emissions,
habitat loss, and traffic congestion. Inadequate infrastructure, particularly prevalent in

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developing nations, perpetuates disparities in access to essential services like clean water,
sanitation, and public transportation.

Moreover, social inequalities persist, with marginalized communities

disproportionately bearing the burdens of environmental degradation and lacking access to
basic amenities. Several cities worldwide exemplify successful sustainable urban development
initiatives. Curitiba, Brazil, stands out for its innovative public transportation system, extensive
green spaces, and pioneering waste management programs. Copenhagen, Denmark, has
become a beacon of sustainability with its emphasis on cycling infrastructure, renewable
energy, and green building practices. Meanwhile, Singapore has implemented cutting-edge
water management strategies, including rainwater harvesting and wastewater recycling,
ensuring water security in a densely populated urban setting. These examples underscore the
diverse approaches cities can employ to achieve sustainability goals.

Cities are increasingly turning to innovative solutions to address sustainability

challenges. Smart city initiatives harness data and technology to optimize resource allocation,
improve urban mobility, and enhance public services. Green building practices prioritize
energy efficiency, sustainable materials, and eco-friendly design principles in construction
projects. Moreover, participatory planning processes empower communities to shape urban
development decisions, fostering inclusivity and ensuring projects align with local needs and
aspirations. Robust policy frameworks and international cooperation are integral to advancing
sustainable urban development agendas. The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
(SDGs) provide a global framework for promoting sustainable cities and communities, guiding
policymakers in prioritizing environmental stewardship, social equity, and economic
prosperity. Collaborative initiatives like the C40 Cities Climate Leadership Group facilitate
knowledge exchange and peer learning among cities worldwide, accelerating the adoption of
sustainable practices and technologies.

Despite growing momentum, barriers to sustainable urban development persist.

Financial constraints often impede the adoption of green technologies and infrastructure
upgrades, particularly in resource-constrained settings. Institutional inertia and political
resistance may hinder policy reforms and impede progress towards sustainability goals.
Additionally, inadequate awareness and capacity gaps among stakeholders can undermine
efforts to mainstream sustainability principles in urban planning and governance. In
conclusion, sustainable urban development is a pressing imperative in an increasingly

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urbanized world. By drawing lessons from history, leveraging innovative solutions, and
fostering collaboration at local, national, and global levels, cities can overcome challenges and
transition towards more resilient, inclusive, and environmentally sustainable urban
environments. However, realizing this vision requires concerted efforts, visionary leadership,
and sustained commitment from all stakeholders to build cities that meet the needs of present
and future generations.

5. Chronological Order

Ancient Civilizations (Before 500 BCE):

- Early examples of urban planning focused on efficient resource management
and infrastructure development, as seen in civilizations such as Mesopotamia
and ancient Egypt.
Industrial Revolution (18th and 19th Centuries):
- Rapid urbanization led to challenges like overcrowding, pollution, and
inadequate infrastructure, prompting early urban reform movements and the
integration of environmental considerations into planning processes.
Early 20th Century:
- Emergence of sustainability principles in urban planning, emphasizing green
spaces, public health initiatives, and social welfare.
- Efforts to address urban challenges through the Garden City movement and
other utopian urban designs.
Mid to Late 20th Century:
- Growing awareness of environmental issues, highlighted by events like the
Stockholm Conference on the Human Environment in 1972.
- Introduction of sustainable development concepts and initiatives, including the
establishment of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) in 1972
and the adoption of the Brundtland Report's definition of sustainable
development in 1987.
Late 20th to Early 21st Century:
- Rise of sustainable urban development as a global priority, with the adoption of
international agreements like the Agenda 21 at the 1992 Earth Summit in Rio
de Janeiro.

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 - Pioneering sustainable urban development projects and policies in cities like
Curitiba, Brazil; Copenhagen, Denmark; and Singapore.
21st Century:
- Implementation of innovative solutions such as smart city initiatives, green
building practices, and participatory planning processes.
- Integration of sustainability goals into the United Nations Sustainable
Development Goals (SDGs) in 2015, with Goal 11 specifically targeting
sustainable cities and communities.
- Continued efforts to address urban challenges and promote sustainability
through international collaborations, research, and policy advocacy.
2020s:
- Ongoing advancements in sustainable urban development, including the
adoption of renewable energy technologies, nature-based solutions for urban
resilience, and digital innovations for smart, inclusive cities.
- Increasing focus on addressing social equity and climate resilience in urban
planning and development.
- Continued engagement of cities, governments, businesses, and civil society in
implementing sustainable urban development strategies and initiatives.

This chronological overview highlights the evolution of sustainable urban development

over time, from ancient civilizations to the present day, showcasing the progression of ideas,
policies, and actions aimed at creating more livable, resilient, and environmentally sustainable
cities.

6. Conclusion

Sustainable urban development is a holistic approach to city planning and management

that seeks to address the complex interplay between environmental, social, and economic
factors. It aims to create cities that are resilient, inclusive, and environmentally sustainable,
meeting the needs of present and future generations while safeguarding the natural resources
and ecosystems on which they depend. Key principles of sustainable urban development
include promoting compact, mixed-use development to reduce urban sprawl and dependence
on cars, prioritizing efficient resource use, enhancing green spaces and biodiversity, and

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fostering social equity and community engagement. To achieve sustainable urban
development, cities must adopt a multifaceted approach that integrates environmental
considerations into all aspects of urban planning and decision-making.

One possible solution is investing in green infrastructure, such as parks, green roofs,
and permeable pavements, to mitigate the urban heat island effect, reduce stormwater runoff,
and improve air quality. Additionally, promoting sustainable transportation options, such as
public transit, cycling infrastructure, and pedestrian-friendly streets, can reduce congestion,
emissions, and reliance on fossil fuels while enhancing mobility and accessibility for all
residents. Another crucial aspect of sustainable urban development is promoting energy
efficiency and renewable energy adoption in buildings and infrastructure. Cities can incentivize
energy-efficient building designs, retrofit existing structures to improve energy performance,
and invest in renewable energy sources like solar and wind power to reduce greenhouse gas
emissions and combat climate change. Furthermore, integrating nature-based solutions, such
as urban forests, wetlands, and green corridors, can enhance biodiversity, provide ecosystem
services, and contribute to climate resilience in cities.

Cities must prioritize affordable housing, access to essential services, and community
empowerment to ensure that all residents benefit from urban development initiatives. This can
involve implementing inclusive zoning policies, supporting community land trusts, and
investing in social infrastructure like schools, healthcare facilities, and community centers.
Moreover, fostering innovation and leveraging technology can drive sustainable urban
development forward. Cities can harness data analytics, digital platforms, and smart
technologies to optimize resource management, improve service delivery, and enhance urban
governance. By embracing innovation and experimentation, cities can identify new solutions
to urban challenges and adapt to evolving environmental and social dynamics. Ultimately,
achieving sustainable urban development requires a collaborative and integrated approach
involving government agencies, businesses, civil society organizations, and local communities.
By prioritizing sustainability in urban planning, investing in green infrastructure and renewable
energy, promoting social equity and inclusivity, and fostering innovation and technology
adoption, cities can create vibrant, livable, and resilient urban environments for generations to
come.

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7. Key questions
1. How could even the developing countries develop their economy like the developed
countries have done in the past but in a way that respects the limit of carbon footprints
emissions and other pollution levels stipulated in several climate agreements?
2. How could even the developed countries ensure the maintenance of sustainable cities
such as Zurich and Trentino?
3. How can each citizen change their own day to day habits in order to make their city
greener?
4. How can green areas be constructed in cities in dry environments such as Cairo, in
Egypt?
5. What are the main obstacles to initiate the process of sustainable urban development in
some countries?
6. What are the companies that support and help governments to spread sustainability in
their cities?
7. What sort of punishments including targeting sanctions can be done if a country does
not respect an article included in an international agreement that has as one of the topics
of discussion the sustainable urban developments?
8. What kind of advertisement can be made that uses strategies that really captivates the
attention of the population of this pressing issue?

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 8. Bloc Positions
8.1. Argentine Republic

Argentina is a famous example of a developing country that has a developed city which
is Buenos Aires, with an infrastructure much better than other Latam’s cities like São Paulo
and Ciudad de México. The motto of the city is “#CuidarteÉsCuidarnos”, which means “take
care of yourself is take care of ourselves”. Since 2013 the city of Buenos Aires has been
internationally recognized for its work to promote a sustainable environment amongst the
citizens. Argentina is a country that definitely can propose a lot of ideas that have been done
in Buenos Aires since 2013 and which definitely made such great results, making it viable to
do the same in other nations.

8.2. Commonwealth of Australia

Australia has long recognised the role of sustainable development in ensuring the well-
being of the country and its people. Government legislation, regulation and policy already
drives us towards many of the environmental, social and economic outcomes enshrined in the
SDGs. Australia's capital city, Sydney, has prioritized eco-friendly innovations in recent years.
The City of Sydney launched the Sustainable Sydney 2030 initiative, which aims to achieve a
30% reduction in energy consumption in residential and commercial buildings.

8.3. Federative Republic of Brazil

In Brazil, considered the third most sustainable country in Latin America, not only has
the trend translated to greater support for overall eco-conscious marketing, but also support for
socially-environmentally responsible businesses. A Brazilian city located in the south of the
country called Curitiba is sustainable in terms of its botanical spaces. According to The Borgen
Project, the city planners have built 28 public parks and surrounded all of the urban areas of
the city with fields of grass in order to combat flooding. Those fields are maintained using
sheep rather than gas-powered lawn mowers.

8.4. Canada

Two Canadian cities have been recognized as leading the way in sustainability.
According to a recent report by Compare the Market, an online insurance comparison platform,
Montreal and Vancouver were ranked in the top five of the most sustainable cities in the
world.Canada's targets are that: chronic homelessness is reduced by at least 50% by 2027-2028.

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85% of Canadians live in areas where air pollutant concentrations are less or equal to the
standards. 22% of commuters adopt shared or active transportation by 2030.

8.5. People's Republic of China

Increased urbanization and GDP growth are not all positive. They come with many
negative side effects. Rapid increases in pollution, energy use, emissions of carbon dioxide and
water scarcity are four major issues that China is facing today as a result of urbanization and
GDP growth.

8.6. Republic of Colombia

Colombia has established a new national urban policy promoting changes to (i) increase
access to water, housing, and public spaces for the urban poor, (ii) increase road safety and
reduce congestion, (iii) improve coordination and connectivity among cities, and (iv) increase
funding for sustainable transportation. Because of the great amount of natural sources in
Colombia, Bogotá's number one source of energy comes from hydroelectric plants and this is
also true for the rest of the country; fossil fuels are second.

8.7. Arab Republic of Egypt

Egypt's environmental problems include, but are not limited to, water scarcity, air
pollution, damage to historic monuments, animal welfare issues and deficiencies in its waste
management systems. Cairo, Egypt’s capital situated on the River Nile, joined EBRD Green
Cities in 2019 with the aim of identifying, prioritizing and developing interventions to address
its environmental challenges.

8.8. French Republic

After jumping 30 places in 2022 (from 55th to 25th), Paris continues to climb the GDS
Index rankings, reaching 21st place this year with 80.12% completion of sustainability criteria,
compared with 74.34% last year, which is an increase of 7.77%. France joined the Climate and
Clean Air Coalition (CCAC) in 2012 and since then has demonstrated continuous commitment
to slashing short-lived climate pollutants alongside carbon emissions to flatten the curve of
climate change and build a healthier planet.

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 8.9. Federal Republic of Germany

The National Urban Development Policy serves as a platform of exchange and transfer
on integrated urban development approaches. In particular, the annual federal congresses of
the Joint Initiative offer a central forum for cities and local authorities in Germany. In Berlin,
sustainability is not just a trending topic — it is ingrained in the city's culture. Berliners have
always supported green and sustainable ideas. For them, the city's abundance of public parks
is essential to their way of life. Many Berliners are less interested in automobiles and more in
bicycle commutes.

8.10. Republic of India

Acting on its nationally-determined contributions, India has electrified 100% of its villages,
reduced 38 million tonnes of CO2 emissions annually through energy efficient appliances,
provided clean cooking fuel to 80 million poor households, and set a target to install 450 GW
of renewable energy. As of 2021, the capital city of India, Delhi scored 67.36 on the Sustainable
Development Goals (SDG) Index. The city fared extremely well on indicators such as
affordable and clean energy, quality of education and responsible consumption and production.

8.11. Republic of Indonesia

To ensure sustainable and resilient recovery, Indonesia has embarked upon systemic
reforms in four key areas: social protection system, national health system, disaster resilience
system, as well as industry recovery, tourism and investment towards green economy.Jakarta
is one of the megacities in the world dealing with sustainability issues where urban planning
plays a major role in achieving the city sustainability.

8.12. Italian Republic

In Trentino, highlands, rurality, landscape, shared values and lifestyles are rooted in the
community's DNA. These are the elements that make its territory a unique and fragile capital
to be protected, governed and respected. In Italy, and especially in its Southern part, cities are
running behind other European counterparts in implementing climate plans to achieve the Paris
objectives. However, there are frontrunner cities which are aware of the challenge and have in
place ambitious programs and targets.

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 8.13. Japan

Japan has long been committed to creating environment-friendly cities and promoting
smart, sustainable lifestyles in its communities. More than two decades ago, the Japanese
government has already been selecting and promoting “eco-model cities” or places with
practices and systems focused on environmental goals.The Tokyo Metropolitan Government
has set numerous goals for 2030 to become a leader in sustainability such as lowering
emissions, increasing renewable energy usage, and reducing food waste. By 2050, Tokyo aims
to become a zero emission city with a net zero carbon goal.

8.14. United Mexican States

In the fifth edition of Arcadis' Sustainable Cities Index (SCI), Mexico City ranked
second among Latin American cities, just behind Bogota, Colombia. The index considers three
sustainability measures: planet, people and profit.

8.15. Federal Republic of Nigeria

In 2002, after extensive consultations nationwide, the Federal Government introduced

the National Urban Development Policy (NUDP) with the goal of developing “a dynamic
system of urban settlements, which will foster sustainable economic growth, promote efficient
urban and regional development. Lagos is an important economic hub, not only within Nigeria
but also in Africa. The city attracts many migrants seeking economic opportunities, leading to
continuous urban growth driven by commerce, trade, and industry.

8.16. Republic of Poland

The National Urban Policy 2030 (NUP 2030) is a document targeted at sustainable
development of cities and functional urban areas. It concentrates on measures and instruments
oriented territorially, which correspond with current challenges faced by the cities and
functional urban areas.Warsaw, the capital and largest city in Poland located on the Vistula
River in the eastern-central part of the country, joined the EBRD Green Cities in 2020 with the
objective of addressing its urban environmental challenges, including water, air, soil and
climate change issues.

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 8.17. Russian Federation

The City of Moscow has made remarkable improvements towards sustainable

development in the past 10 years, in areas such as poverty reduction, income inequalities,
transport, environment, personal security, health or education.Moscow, one of the world's
greenest metropolises, will continue to set an example for other cities for the future with its
natural parks and forests and environmentally sensitive projects.Although industries continue
to pollute the air, emissions from cars and trucks--lead, carbon monoxide, and nitrogen oxides-
-cause the majority of air pollution. In Moscow, for example, 87 percent of air pollution is
attributable to vehicle emissions.

8.18. Republic of South Africa

An Integrated Urban Development Framework has been adopted to guide the

development of inclusive, resilient and liveable urban settlements. At the heart of Cape Town's
robust green economy lies a range of sectors and practices aimed at promoting sustainable
development, while minimizing environmental impact. These include renewable energy, water
management, waste management, sustainable agriculture and eco-tourism, to name a few.

8.19. Republic of Korea

Despite the threat of missile and nuclear attacks from the North, resuming a war that
has never technically finished, Seoul is an incredibly technologically advanced city. The home
of Samsung and LG is using some of that technology to make it the most sustainable city in
Asia on the 2015 Sustainable Cities Index.Seoul City's urban regeneration plan aims to restore
local identities and achieve sustainable urban growth through public-private partnership and
citizen engagement.

8.20. Kingdom of Spain

Valencia has long been one of Spain's sunniest cities, thanks to its prime location on
the Mediterranean. Now, it can also claim to be the most sustainable after winning the coveted
Green Capital of Europe title. The European Commission cited Valencia's 5 million square
meters of green space.Over 55% of Madrid's streets are tree-lined, with almost 300,000 trees
contributing to improving Madrid's air quality and making it the world's second-leafiest city in
terms of tree-lined streets, preceded only by Tokyo.

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 8.21. Kingdom of Sweden

The Swedish green model means integrating business and sustainability. Together with
its Nordic neighbors, Sweden has declared that green growth can drive transition through
technical innovation rather than pose a risk.Stockholm has a goal of having a park or green
space within 300 meters of every resident. The city also encourages urban farming, with several
community gardens and farms in public spaces. Stockholm also has a goal of becoming a fossil
fuel-free city by 2040, which includes expanding its use of renewable energy.

8.22. Swiss Confederation

Swiss cities are world-beaters when it comes to sustainability – the good air quality,
numerous recreational areas, and well-developed public transport options are all testament to
this.Rated by Dutch architecture company, Arcadis, as the most sustainable city in the world,
Zurich leads the way in their environmental index, ranks very high economically, and is about
average in the social index used by Arcadis.Zurich separates out organic waste, recyclable
waste, and other waste that can't be reused. Even that waste, however, is converted to energy
for the city to use. Zurich is climate neutral and takes responsibility beyond the city limits.
Direct greenhouse gas emissions are to be reduced to net zero by 2040. For the first time, the
city also defines a target for indirect greenhouse gas emissions per inhabitant.

8.23. Republic of Turkey

The Turkish government has created a real innovative project regarding new eco-
friendly cities. The project is the first in a series of projects aimed at improving economic,
financial, environmental, and social sustainability of Turkish cities. Citizens will benefit from
improved public transport, water and sanitation services, waste management, and energy
services, as well as new jobs. Although situated in one of the driest regions of Turkey and
surrounded mostly by steppe vegetation (except for the forested areas on the southern
periphery), Ankara can be considered a green city in terms of green areas per inhabitant, at 72
square meters (775 square feet) per head. Bursa is considered to be the most "green" city in
Turkey. It is located in the Marmara region, at the foot of Mount Uludağ. The city has a
population of over 3 million people, but it is still home to a large amount of green space.

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 8.24. United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland

London's environmental reputation is largely attributed to its “progressive and

ambitious climate policy being one of the strongest in the world” (2). London is now known as
a National Park City with plentiful green space further demonstrating the city's value on
preservation.Taking all of the factors into account, Bristol came out as the UK's greenest city,
scoring highly for recycling and air quality and number one when it came to eco-friendly
Google searches, with 47 per 10,000 people.

8.25. United States of America

Within the United States, cities are pushing to lower greenhouse gas emissions, create
more green space, make commuting easier by limiting the need for cars, create farmer's markets
to make local produce more accessible, and make other critical shifts.In 2021, Berkeley
committed to the C40 Race to Zero campaign that aims to reach net-zero emissions by 2045. It
also has its own Climate Action Plan that discusses shifting to wind and solar energy sources,
sending zero waste to landfills, consuming more locally produced foods, and making public
transit, walking, and cycling more accessible for everyone. Berkeley also ranks in the top 8%
of the country for its high percentage of green commuters, along with UC Berkeley recently
being awarded the highest rating for sustainability achievements from The Association for the
Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE).

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