As the hubs of economic activity, cities drive the vast majority of the world.s energy use and are
major contributors to global greenhouse gas emissions. Because they are home to major infrastructure
and highly concentrated populations, cities are also vulnerable to the impacts of climate change,
such as rising sea levels, warmer temperatures and fiercer storms. At the same time, better urban
planning and policies can reduce energy use and greenhouse gas emissions and improve the resilience
of urban infrastructure to climate change, thus shaping future trends.

This book shows how city and metropolitan regional governments working in tandem with national
governments can change the way we think about responding to climate change. The chapters analyse:
trends in urbanisation, economic growth, energy use and climate change; the economic benefits of
climate action; the role of urban policies in reducing energy demand, improving resilience to
climate change and complementing global climate policies; frameworks for multilevel governance of
climate change including engagement with relevant stakeholders; and the contribution of cities to
"green growth", including the "greening" of fiscal policies, innovation and jobs. The book also
explores policy tools and best practices from both OECD and some non-member countries.

Cities and Climate Change reveals the importance of addressing climate change across all levels of
government. Local involvement through "climate-conscious" urban planning and management can help
achieve national climate goals and minimise tradeoffs between environmental and economic priorities
at local levels. The book will be relevant to policy makers, researchers, and others with an interest
in learning more about urbanisation and climate change policy.

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