EARTH HOUR CITY CHALLENGE

EARTH HOUR CITY CHALLENGE

The Challenge

With more than 70% of the world’s CO2 emissions generated by cities, the Earth Hour City Challenge has been created to reward pioneering cities that are leading the way towards a fully sustainable future.

The challenge invites cities to submit inspiring and credible urban development plans that dramatically increase the city’s use of renewable energy. The plans and relevant data are to be submitted via cCCR, an internationally recognized carbon reporting platform for cities, managed by ICLEI – Local Governments for Sustainability. Outreach and support to cities will be provided in collaboration with ICLEI and the final plans and data reviewed by an international panel of judges.

The judges will particularly review sustainable development plans for building, transport, energy and food systems – solutions that will make a city greener and cleaner and improve living standards for residents. Sweden’s third largest city Malmo took top honours last year when the City Challenge pilot program took place in Sweden. This year, cities from Canada, India, Italy, Sweden and the United States will be invited to participate as the Earth Hour City Challenge moves to an international phase. The Earth Hour Capital, as well as five national champions will be announced in early 2013.

The Criteria

The international panel of judges will be looking for cities that have not only recognised the climate challenge and started to measure and report their emissions. Awarded cities will also be busy launching innovative, participation based and ambitious initiatives, taking the city and its community closer to a 100% renewable and sustainable economy or advancing the low carbon agenda, with pace and a clear strategic connection between actions and targets. In order to level the playing field, the panel will take into account differences in resources and starting points; the Earth Hour City Challenge is not about having the most hi-tech plans, but about commitment and innovative thinking focusing on solutions that promote attractive, one-planet lifestyles.

The Timeline

March - April 2012 - pre-registration open to cities

June - November 2012 - city candidates to submit plans

December - February 2013 - International jury selects finalists

March 2013 - Earth Hour National champions and Global Capital announced

GET INVOLVED

In 2012 the City Challenge is open to cities in Canada, India, Italy, Sweden and the United States. If your city deserves global recognition for its effort to increase the use of renewable energy and reduce climate impact, then register for 2012 participation information here. In 2013, the challenge will be open to even more countries so contact us to register your interest early.

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