![]() Buildings account for 28% of all energy-related carbon dioxide emissions worldwide. First, we can make buildings much more energy efficient. We already know how to design cities that contribute much less to climate change. ![]() Changes in the climate are threatening freshwater supplies and electric grids. Heatwaves can threaten tens of thousands in densely populated city centers from Karachi to London, where dark pavement captures and prolongs the sun’s heat. Rising sea levels and stronger storms can lead to dangerous coastal urban flooding, and extreme rain storms can cause flash flooding in cities far from the ocean. 1 And because cities concentrate people, buildings and infrastructure, they are also uniquely vulnerable to a range of climate risks. Estimates range from a little over one-half to two-thirds of global energy consumption, and about half to as much as 80% of global greenhouse gas emissions, are directly and indirectly tied to urban economies. Today, more than half of humanity chooses to live and work in cities.Ĭoncentrating people and activities makes cities major consumers of energy and sources of the greenhouse gas emissions driving climate change. Cities also offer unique amenities: educational institutions, community groups, arts and cultural assets, entertainment and much more. From the smallest towns to sprawling metropolitan regions of more than 30 million people, urban places make it easier to find work, products and services, and a range of housing choices. Cities concentrate people into small areas for good reason.
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