Reflections on Cancún From a Local Government Perspective

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Nations and local governments alike emerged from the global climate talks in Cancún with a set of hard fought advancements found in "The Cancún Agreements." 

It is now time for the world to continue with this positive momentum by tackling the work of creating and implementing a global solution -- one where nations respect and support the power of local action.As I returned home to the US from the 16th annual Conference of Parties (COP16), I was struck by this year's remarkable achievement, despite widespread doubts that we could drive positive change. 

From my perspective as a three-term Mayor, I was particularly encouraged by the outcome and the prospects for further climate action during next year's Climate Summit in Durban, South Africa.  Local governments have been waging the fight against catastrophic climate change for more than 20 years and in the process attracting business, creating jobs and increasing the quality of life of their citizens.  If we can do it well in our cities and our counties -- the rest of the world will eventually catch on and catch up.

Reflections on Cancún From a Local Government Perspective