Ashden, a renowned sustainable energy charity, has released a video titled "Tackling the climate emergency: tools for cities," which emphasizes the critical role cities play in addressing the climate crisis. Uploaded on June 18, 2019, the video highlights the importance of well-designed policies that connect the climate emergency with people's everyday needs, thereby garnering public support for significant, rapid changes.
The video underscores that 80% of carbon emissions are generated by cities, making urban areas pivotal in the fight against catastrophic climate change. It argues that policies which align climate action with the improvement of jobs, local economies, green spaces, housing, and travel can simultaneously address
climate and social issues. For example, improving air quality not only benefits public health but also reduces NHS costs. This saving can then be redirected to enhance public transport or make homes more energy-efficient.
Ashden's approach is about creating a virtuous cycle where greater public support for climate action empowers councils and governments to implement more radical carbon-cutting measures. As these policies yield positive results, they can unlock new funding sources and integrate various budget areas, further accelerating climate action.
The video introduces the Ashden co-benefits toolkit, a resource designed to assist city regions and local authorities in taking urgent action against the climate emergency. This toolkit provides practical guidance on how to implement policies that not only stop climate change but also improve the quality of life for citizens now and in the future.
By focusing on the co-benefits of climate action, Ashden's message is clear: tackling the climate crisis is not just about reducing emissions; it's also about creating healthier, more prosperous, and more sustainable communities. This approach offers a hopeful and holistic path forward for cities grappling with the dual challenges of climate change and urban development.
The video from Ashden serves as a call to action for cities around the world, highlighting the urgency of the climate crisis and the transformative potential of integrated, people-centered climate policies.
