Photo by Katrina Borromeo

The 'urban' future we want - Cities take part in the Rio+20 zero draft outcome document

Cities are gaining more and more recognition in Rio+20 preparations, with ICLEI being a leading organization in linking local governments to Rio+20. Sustainable cities were recently mentioned in a speech by the Secretary General of the 1992 Earth Summit, Maurice Strong, in the UN newsletter "Rio+20 Making it Happen"  and on the Rio+20: The Future We Want website.

The role of local government and the importance of sustainable cities is prominently included in the Zero draft of the Rio+20 outcome document

Quoting paragraph 72 of the document, "We promote an integrated and holistic approach to planning and building sustainable cities through support to local authorities, efficient transportation and communication networks, greener buildings and an efficient human settlements and service delivery system, improved air and water quality, reduced waste, improved disaster preparedness and response and increased climate resilience."  

Find out what  ICLEI and local governments are cooking for Rio+20 at www.iclei.org/local2012