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Dear readers,
“Many people have an idea of the goal; they just prefer to reach it leisurely.” – This quote by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe feels more relevant than ever. Today, climate change sets the pace of necessary transformations, yet globally we remain far from achieving our climate and sustainability goals (SDGs).
Contrary to this trend, a growing community of municipalities and their associations are actively localizing the Agenda 2030 and accelerating progress toward the SDGs.
This edition highlights how the Colombian city of Manizales is engaging its citizens in these efforts. It also showcases a new international network of partners from municipal associations and local governments that has formed to advance local sustainability reporting, giving fresh momentum to the Agenda 2030 while amplifying their voices on national and international levels.
To align our way of life more closely with planetary boundaries and available resources, we continue to support professional exchanges, such as strengthening circular economy practices in construction between Germany and Nepal, advancing renewable energy projects in Tunisia through regional workshops, and optimizing urban heat mitigation projects as part of our Deep Dive process.
Ten years ago, when Connective Cities was started, it was uncertain whether this new approach to international exchange among municipal practitioners would gain acceptance or deliver tangible results. Today, we look back on a robust network of nearly 3,500 professionals in over 700 cities across 100 countries. Numerous project ideas have been developed, working groups have evolved into innovative think tanks, and projects have been successfully implemented. These accomplishments were also recognized during our anniversary celebration by the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to all colleagues who have actively supported and accompanied us over the years.
As we reflect on an eventful 2024, we wish everyone a peaceful end of the year and a successful start to the new one. Despite challenges such as wars and natural disasters, we remain committed to working together to make cities worldwide more sustainable and livable.
All the best,
Your Connective Cities Team
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