Sydney declares state of emergency over climate crisis
The decision makes Sydney the first major city in Australia to declare a climate emergency, but nearly the 660th to do so worldwide.
Cities
This archive collects milestone stories where cities are the driving force behind positive change. From urban planning breakthroughs to local policy wins, these stories highlight how municipal governments, city agencies, and urban communities around the world are solving real problems.
Oakland in California decriminalizes magic mushrooms and peyote
The city council’s vote directed law enforcement to cease investigating and prosecuting individuals for using or possessing drugs sourced from plants, cacti, and mushrooms.
Mexico City drops gender-specific school uniforms
“Boys can wear skirts if they want and girls can wear trousers if they want,” Mexico City Mayor Claudia Mayor Sheinbaum said.
Atlanta to create United States’s largest food forest for public
The move would result in the city’s first food forest and the largest of its kind in the country.
Los Angeles launches its own Green New Deal to go carbon-neutral by 2050
The plan requires all new city-owned buildings and major renovations to be all-electric, effective immediately. The plan also hopes to phase out styrofoam and to plant 90,000 trees by 2021, and to end plastic straws and single-use containers by 2028.
Chicago becomes the largest US city to commit to 100% clean energy
Chicago has passed legislation committing to running the city on 100 percent renewable energy by the year 2040.
World’s first’ Ultra Low Emission Zone comes into force in London
The introduction of the Ultra-Low Emission Zone will result in motorists who drive into the zone in a vehicle that does not meet the new emission standard having to pay a daily charge.
Chicago makes history electing Lori Lightfoot as first black woman mayor
Lori Lightfoot, a political newcomer, was elected the first black female mayor of Chicago. Lightfoot, who will also become the first openly gay mayor of the third-largest U.S. city, appealed to voters who are tired of politics as usual.
Sydney announces 100% renewable energy by 2050 target
Sydney will purchase only 100% renewable energy that’s generated by wind or solar starting next year.
Toledo, Ohio voters approve Lake Erie Bill Of Rights
Voters in Toledo, Ohio voted overwhelmingly to approve the so-called Lake Erie Bill Of Rights, a declaration that the lake has the legal right to be protected from harm from human activity.