C40 Mayors Gather for London Climate Festival

Global Mayors Converge in London to Tackle Climate Emergency at London Climate action Week

London, UK – Top mayors from the C40 network have gathered in London for London Climate Action week (LCAW) 2025, the largest climate festival spanning across Europe. This year, London Climate Action Week is set to host over 45,000 attendees participating in more than 300 events.

These events are designed to drive global climate action and construct resilient urban environments. As leaders on the front lines, these mayors are seeking to expand discussions, share knowledge, and develop enhanced climate action plans. The primary focus is on achieving equitable, healthy, and resilient urban futures, addressing aspects from air quality to green finance.

Key Priorities at London Climate Action Week 2025

Throughout the week, city leaders will focus on several key areas:

• Improving urban air quality using advanced sensor networks.
• Increasing investment and access to electric vehicle charging, especially in underserved communities.
• Securing green finance to scale climate solutions to meet urgent needs.

Mark Watts, Executive Director of C40 Cities, stated: “The gathering of city leaders from around the globe allows for showcasing successes and building crucial partnerships. These collaborations are vital in averting the worst climate scenarios and protecting communities.”

He emphasized the importance of cities in leading climate action, especially as the C40 network celebrates its 20th anniversary. Watts added, “Cities are critical in demonstrating ambition and delivering tangible results to combat climate change.”

High-Level Discussions and Strategic Collaborations

A significant event is a high-level breakfast roundtable at the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, in partnership with the C40 Cities Finance Facility (CFF) and the Urban Climate Action Program Climate Action Implementation (UCAP CAI). This event will exhibit how C40 cities lead in incorporating climate action into governance, scaling investment-ready solutions, and ensuring inclusive benefits for all residents.

The CFF and UCAP CAI programs have shown considerable impact.These initiatives are projected to leverage over GBP 800 million in climate finance and reduce at least 1.7 million tonnes of CO2e annually. This reduction is equivalent to removing the emissions from a city the size of Manchester each year.

Did You No? According to the United Nations, cities consume 78% of the world’s energy and produce more than 60% of greenhouse gas emissions.

Nairobi Governor Sakaja Johnson noted: “The UCAP-supported solar-powered cold room in nairobi reduces food waste, improves food security, and demonstrates resilient city development by providing climate solutions that directly benefit communities.”

Uber Partnership and Expansion of Electric Vehicle Infrastructure

C40 and Uber are launching a new partnership at the SmartCitiesWorld Cities Climate Action Summit to boost electric vehicle charging infrastructure in Phoenix, Boston, and London. This program uses data to strategically plan equitable, high-use charging networks, benefiting commercial drivers such as ride-hail, taxi, and freight workers.

The initiative includes panels and workshops with mayors and transport leaders from Europe and North America, demonstrating how public-private partnerships can foster clean air, create green jobs, and improve urban mobility.

Uber’s Global Head of Sustainability, Rebecca Tinucci, explained: “Uber is dedicated to a fully electric future. Proper charging infrastructure helps drivers earn more,improves rider experiences,and reduces air pollution.”

Tinucci added, “By partnering with C40 and city leaders, we aim to unlock EV infrastructure where it’s moast needed, promoting economic opportunity and healthier communities.”

Transforming Cities: Showcasing Urban Climate Action

Another highlight is the premiere of Transforming Cities II, a series of short films produced by C40 Cities and BBC StoryWorks.These films highlight 17 inspiring stories from cities worldwide, demonstrating how communities and individuals are adapting and growing in the face of climate challenges. The series showcases local climate initiatives delivering global impact through mitigation, adaptation, and inclusion.

Bold Cities, Brave Mayors: A Dialog on Urban Climate leadership

On June 25th, C40 and The Conduit will co-host Bold Cities, Brave Mayors: Governing for a Livable Planet. Mayors from Nairobi and Montreal, along with former C40 Chair and Mayor of Toronto, David Miller, will discuss urban climate leadership, focusing on democratic innovation, inclusive governance, and urgent action.

Pro Tip: Engaging directly with local communities ensures that climate action plans are both effective and equitable.

Breathe London: Expanding Air Quality Monitoring

LCAW marks the next phase of the Breathe London project, which includes over 400 air quality sensors across London. This program empowers 60 community groups with real-time air quality data. Supported by Bloomberg Philanthropies and the Clean Air Fund, Breathe London will continue for three more years, integrating community-led action plans and partnerships.

Since its launch in 2023, Breathe Cities has expanded to 14 cities across five continents, deploying more than 1,000 sensors. The goal is to cut urban air pollution by 30% by 2030, influencing clean air policies from Nairobi to Warsaw.

Jane Burston, CEO of the Clean Air Fund, said: “Breathe Cities has grown into a worldwide movement, driving change from Nairobi’s air quality sensor network to Warsaw’s Clean Air Zone. Cities are collaborating to accelerate global climate action.”

She noted that the progress made benefits 77 million residents in these cities who coudl breathe easier.

Collaboration with the Center for Liveable Cities

C40 is set to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with the Centre for Liveable Cities (CLC) to enhance cooperation on climate-resilient urban development. This MoU will strengthen city networks,promote learning,and advance regenerative city planning across the Asia-Pacific region.

On June 25th, C40, CLC, and Arup will host a mayoral panel titled Urban Futures Reimagined, featuring leaders from Oslo, Medellín, and London. The event will highlight how regenerative design, nature-based solutions, and community engagement build urban resilience and cut emissions.

Celebrating 20 Years of C40 Leadership in Climate Action

This year’s LCAW also celebrates the 20th anniversary of C40’s establishment by former Mayor of London, Ken Livingstone. From its initial meeting of G20 city leaders in 2005, C40 has grown into a global network of nearly 100 cities, representing over 900 million people, demonstrating the crucial role of city leadership in achieving the Paris Agreement goals and protecting communities from climate change.

The Growing Urgency of Urban Climate Action

As of 2024, 56% of the global population resides in cities, a figure projected to increase to 68% by 2050.This urbanization trend underscores the pivotal role cities play in global climate efforts. Implementing effective climate strategies in urban centers is crucial for achieving broader sustainability goals.

According to the IPCC’s Sixth Assessment Report, urban areas are particularly vulnerable to climate change impacts such as heatwaves, flooding, and sea-level rise. Proactive measures and strategic planning are imperative to mitigate these risks and ensure the well-being of urban residents.

Comparative Analysis of Climate Initiatives

Initiative	Focus Area	Key Activities	Expected Outcomes
C40 Cities Finance Facility (CFF)	Green Finance	Supporting cities in developing bankable climate projects	Increased investment in climate projects, reduced emissions
Urban Climate Action Programme (UCAP CAI)	Climate action Implementation	Integrating climate action into governance and scaling solutions	Enhanced governance, scalable solutions, inclusive benefits
Breathe Cities	air Quality	Deploying sensor networks and promoting clean air policies	Improved air quality, reduced pollution-related health issues

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the London Climate Action Week?

London Climate action Week (LCAW) is Europe’s largest city-wide climate festival, gathering over 45,000 people to address urban climate challenges.

What are the main goals of the C40 initiative?

The C40 initiative aims to unite cities in taking urgent climate action,reducing emissions,and protecting urban communities from climate impacts.

How does electric vehicle infrastructure support climate goals?

Expanding electric vehicle infrastructure reduces reliance on fossil fuels, lowering emissions and improving air quality in urban areas.

What role do public-private partnerships play in urban climate action?

Public-private partnerships combine governmental resources with private sector innovation and investment to scale up climate solutions effectively.

Why is air quality a key focus at London Climate Action Week?

Improving air quality is crucial for public health and environmental sustainability, directly impacting the well-being of urban residents and ecosystems.

What actions do you think are most critical for cities to address climate change? How can local communities play a more significant role?

share your thoughts and join the conversation!

How are C40 cities collaborating to achieve enterprising, impactful climate targets?

C40 Mayors Converge at London Climate Action Week: Championing a Sustainable Future

London Climate Action Week (LCAW) serves as a pivotal global platform. It brings together leaders, activists, and innovators to address the urgent climate crisis. C40 Mayors play a crucial role within LCAW, offering crucial insights and establishing concrete solutions for achieving environmental sustainability and driving climate action.

The Significance of C40 Cities

C40 comprises a network of nearly 100 cities across the globe, united in their commitment to tackling climate change. These cities represent a substantial proportion of the world’s population and economy, making their actions profoundly impactful. LCAW offers an unparalleled chance for these mayors to collaborate, exchanging information, and creating ambitious climate targets.

Key Roles of C40 Mayors at LCAW

• Policy leadership: Shaping and implementing climate-focused policies at a local level, influencing global directives.
• Innovation and Best Practices: Sharing insights into sustainable practices, technological advancements, and prosperous climate initiatives.
• Collaboration and Networking: Fostering strategic partnerships and reinforcing alliances among cities and organizations to facilitate climate action.
• Public Engagement: Increasing public awareness and encouraging climate change mitigation through open dialogues, events, and community programs.

Spotlight on Sustainable Solutions

LCAW functions as a perfect forum for C40 Mayors to showcase best practices and discuss cutting-edge methods for diminishing greenhouse gas emissions, promoting renewable energy, and implementing climate resilience strategies. There is a powerful focus on these key areas:

Sustainable Transportation Initiatives

Reducing emissions from transportation is a key aim for many C40 cities. discussions often cover electric vehicle initiatives, the use of public transportation, and creating cycling infrastructure. For example:

• Expanding Electric Vehicle (EV) Infrastructure: Developing charging networks like they are in London that support the adoption of cleaner transport options.
• Enhancing Public Transport: Optimizing and expanding public transit systems (buses, trains, and metro) to make them more efficient and accessible.
• Encouraging Cycling and Walking: Creating safer and more attractive areas for pedestrians and cyclists, improving air quality and public health.

Renewable Energy Projects

Transitioning to clean energy sources is essential. Initiatives discussed include:

• Solar Power: Scaling up solar energy use through rooftop installations on buildings, solar farms, and other projects.
• Wind Energy: Assessing the feasibility and implementation of wind energy projects in urban settings when relevant.
• Energy Efficiency: Promoting energy efficiency in housing and public buildings through retrofitting, smart technology, and building codes.

Climate Resilience Strategies

Preparing for the impacts of climate change is critical. Discussions at LCAW frequently entail strategies like:

• Flood Defenses: Building coastal barriers, improved drainage systems, and green infrastructures to protect against flooding.
• Urban Greening: Developing green infrastructure such as parks, urban forests, and green roofs to reduce the urban heat island affect and improve air quality.
• Water Management: implementing water conservation techniques, water recycling initiatives, and sustainable water management practices.

Examples of Real-World Impact

During LCAW, C40 Mayors often highlight successful programs and projects from involved cities, demonstrating how their policies work in practice. Here are examples of notable initiatives:

City	Project	Impact
London	Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ)	Reduced air pollution and encouraged the use of cleaner vehicles to improve public health.
Paris	Climate Action Plan	Thorough plan to reduce carbon emissions, boost green energy, and improve overall sustainability.
New York City	Retrofitting Buildings	Energy efficiency, cut carbon emissions, and improved financial savings.

The Broader Impact of LCAW

London Climate Action Week goes beyond the participation of C40 Mayors. It involves a broad range of parties, from businesses and researchers to policymakers and young climate activists, creating a holistic approach towards tackling the climate challenge. The long-term effects of LCAW include:

• Influencing Policy: Inspiring tangible changes and guiding climate policies globally.
• Encouraging Innovation: Promoting research, new technologies, and creative solutions in the area of climate action.
• Raising Public Awareness: Increasing stakeholder engagement with climate considerations through media coverage of the event’s actions.

Attracting more than 45,000 attendees annually, LCAW has firmly established itself as a powerful and growing climate event. Its significance lies in its capacity to enhance international cooperation, stimulate creativity, and hasten the adoption of effective climate solutions.