LIVABLE COMMUNITIES, LIVABLE WORLD: THE URBAN ENVIRONMENTAL ACCORDS

In 2005, mayors revolutionized the way people look at environmental issues. On World Environment Day, a group of over fifty mayors led by Mayor Gavin Newsom of San Francisco launched the Urban Environmental Accords, a set of common rules for cities committed to equality and sustainability within and across their borders.

Mayor Newsom recognized that air pollution in his city often originates elsewhere, that the stability of local climate depends on the stability of global climate (and curbing of global pollution), and that the safety of the water supply depends upon the willingness of many others to do their part to keep waterways clean. With this in mind, he urged mayors to sign the Urban Environmental Accords on World Environment Day.

The Accords include seven major themes for actions that lead to sustainable urban centers in the 21st century:

• Energy: Conserving energy and reducing pollution that causes climate change;

• Waste Reduction: Cutting down and improving the management of garbage;

• Urban Design: Using technology and smart planning to make the most of natural conditions, improve the quality of life, and create jobs;

• Urban Nature: Keeping plants, animals, and open spaces available for responsible use and the enjoyment of future generations;

• Transportation: Creating systems that facilitate free movement and preserve public health;

• Environmental Health: Protecting residents from harmful materials and helping them eat nutritiously and stay healthy; and

• Water: Ensuring that all residents have access to safe and affordable drinking water.

The message of the Urban Environmental Accords is clear: cities can set the standard for sustainable living in an interconnected world. Thus far, over 90 cities worldwide have signed the Accords.

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Updated July 7, 2006

Cities Participating in Urban Environmental Accords
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Urban Environmental Accords
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