COVID-19 has placed incredible pressure on cities to protect the health of their residents, provide access to outdoor green spaces and address deep-seated social inequalities. How can cities meet these demands during a global economic downturn with the prospect of tight municipal budgets?

This virtual event will explore how leading cities like London and Accra are using forests and other nature-based solutions to provide valuable health and economic benefits for city residents while fighting climate change. The event will address key questions such as:

  • How can London improve the quality, functionality, accessibility, and interconnectivity of the city’s green space? How can we use charismatic tree species to capture the public’s imagination?
  • How are Global South cities like Accra leading on nature based solutions, and how can they benefit from international cooperation with London and other peer cities?
  • How can cities use private finance to pay for nature-based solutions in a time of tight city budgets?
  • How can cities ensure their investments in nature-based solutions are fairly distributed and help address social inequalities?

During this London Climate Week Webinar, representatives from the Greater London Authority; the city of Accra, Ghana; the National Park City Foundation; GLOBE International; and Cities4Forests will share their experiences and insights, with time for Q&A.

Speakers

  • Malini Mehra, CEO, GLOBE International (moderator)
  • Nicole Collomb, Senior Policy and Programme Officer, Greater London Authority
  • Paul De Zylva, Chair, National Park City Foundation
  • Desmond C. Appiah, Chief Resilience Officer, City of Accra, Ghana
  • Todd Gartner, Director, Cities4Forests and Natural Infrastructure Initiative, World Resources Institute