From November 4 to 8, 2024, the city of Cairo hosted the 12th session of the World Urban Forum (WUF12), organized by @UN-Habitat. This international event brought together key stakeholders to discuss the transition toward more inclusive, sustainable, and resilient cities under the theme: “It All Starts at Home: Local Actions for the Sustainable Development of Cities and Communities.”
I had the honor of representing the French Committee of IUCN at the France Pavilion, where we presented the Adaptation Guide of the French Partnership for Cities and Territories (PFVT). This platform showcased concrete initiatives and emphasized the importance of Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) in helping cities adapt to climate challenges.
One of the highlights of the week was an event I had the pleasure of moderating, which focused on the integration of Nature-Based Solutions to strengthen urban resilience in the face of climate change. These solutions, inspired by and supported by natural ecosystems, offer practical responses to urban challenges by integrating biodiversity and improving living conditions.
This forum took place just one week after COP16, a powerful reminder that making peace with nature is not only an environmental imperative but also a cornerstone for building a sustainable and equitable future.
I also had the privilege of speaking at a high-level side event, organized by IUCN in partnership with the World Bank and Holcim. This panel highlighted the critical role of green infrastructure and Nature-Based Solutions in addressing climate challenges in urban areas.
During this roundtable, I shared concrete examples of integrating Nature-Based Solutions in Mediterranean cities. These initiatives demonstrate how such approaches can enhance urban resilience against floods, heatwaves, and other climate impacts, while offering innovative and collaborative responses to ecological challenges. They also improve residents’ quality of life while preserving biodiversity.
The World Urban Forum 12 reaffirmed that urban challenges require ambitious local actions as well as strengthened international cooperation. Nature-Based Solutions, as effective and versatile tools, are central to building cities capable of addressing climate crises while fostering inclusive and sustainable development.
These inspiring discussions reinforce our shared commitment to building urban spaces in harmony with nature, for the benefit of present and future generations.
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