Policy Brief: Nordic Cities and GHG Emissions Reduction – Aligning with the Mitigation Work Programme for Climate-Resilient Urban Development

This publication highlights how cities, responsible for 70% of global greenhouse gas emissions, can transition toward sustainability. Drawing on Nordic examples, the brief outlines three key areas for reducing urban emissions: spatial planning with low-carbon infrastructure, electrification of energy systems, and enhancing carbon storage through green and blue spaces. Nordic countries showcase how integrating ambitious climate policies into urban planning can support net-zero goals. However, challenges like regulatory barriers, grid capacity, and balancing land use require coordinated efforts and investment. The recommendations aim to inspire global cities to adopt similar strategies.