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Transforming cities for people and planet

UrbanShift supports cities around the world to adopt integrated approaches to urban development, building an equitable, zero-carbon future where both people and planet can thrive.
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We live on a rapidly urbanizing planet, but our cities are struggling to provide basic services to their people – from clean air and water to reliable public transport and safe, affordable housing. As a result of this unprecedented urban growth, carbon emissions are on the rise and pressures on vital ecosystems are intensifying.  

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Asia Forum 2023

At UrbanShift's first forum, senior representatives from cities in India, China and Indonesia will meet with international organizations and the private sector to exchange knowledge on regional urban challenges and solutions.

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CITIES LEADING THE WAY

The need for cities to transform their development trajectory has never been more urgent. UrbanShift works with more than 23 cities across nine countries, bringing together local leaders, national governments and a range of global stakeholders to enable urban development that is both nature-positive and human-centric. Hover over the map below to see the 23 primary cities and 16 secondary cities that form part of UrbanShift (GEF-7 cycle). You can also see the 28 cities that participated in the pilot program  (GEF-6 cycle).

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Now Live: UrbanShift Online City Academy

UrbanShift offers eight free, self-paced courses on essential topics for creating more sustainable, equitable cities. Explore the course offerings and enroll today!

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LATEST NEWS & EVENTS

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Transforming a Dump Site in Costa Rica into a Community Green Space

In Costa Rica’s capital region, a locally led, GEF-funded effort to clean up trash provides a model for successful community regeneration initiatives.

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Report

Protecting People and the Planet: Putting People at the Heart of City Climate Action

This report from ICLEI and CDP shares analysis from the data reported through the 2022 CDP-ICLEI track, and highlights the need for people-centered climate action in cities.

Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo addresses the audience at the Paris International Forum to End Plastic Pollution in Cities
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How Cities are Leading in the Fight Against Plastic Pollution

At the Paris International Forum to End Plastic Pollution in Cities, global mayors shared insights on the power of local action to limit waste and transition to a circular economy.

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OUR FUNDER AND PARTNERS

UrbanShift is the brand name of the Global Environment Facility’s Sustainable Cities Impact Program. It is led by the UN Environment Programme and implemented in partnership with the World Resources Institute, C40 Cities, ICLEI – Local Governments for Sustainability, the UN Development Programme, the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank. UrbanShift builds on the lessons and experiences of the Sustainable Cities Integrated Approach Pilot, facilitated through the Global Platform for Sustainable Cities.

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