Lidia Perska
Kaohsiung Mobilizes International Efforts to Transform into a Net-Zero and Digitally Advanced City
Kaohsiung, in a monumental event at the Kaohsiung Exhibition Center, launched the “2024 Kaohsiung Smart City Expo” with a key focus on “Digital and Green Transformation.” This event gathered more than 500 participants from various governments, businesses, and organizations worldwide, all showcasing solutions for sustainable cities and smart governance.
The following day, the “City COP Sustainable City Forum” convened, initiated by Kaohsiung Mayor Chen Qi-mai’s opening address. The forum aimed to facilitate international dialogs on topics like energy transitions, low-carbon city planning, and climate action. High-profile international organizations, including ICLEI, CityNet, WeGO, participated vigorously in the event.
Underlining the significance of embracing international collaboration to address industrial legacies and promote net-zero emissions, Mayor Chen Qi-mai emphasized the city’s commitment to learning and partnership. Kaohsiung has been proactive in its climate initiatives, passing its own “Net-Zero City Development Autonomy Ordinance,” forming the “Industry Net-Zero Alliance” to foster low-carbon technologies, and establishing the pioneering “Net-Zero Academy” to train talent in sustainability.
These efforts have been fruitful; Kaohsiung’s total carbon emissions have seen a steep reduction, measuring an impressive 21% decrease compared to the 2005 levels.
The “City COP” forum sparked discussions around global resolutions to end fossil fuel use and shape a collaborative future towards net-zero emissions by 2050. City representatives from Dubai, the Philippines, Kosovo, Japan, South Korea, Eswatini, and Fiji shared their diverse experiences and commitments to the latest carbon-neutral technologies.
Throughout the event, the importance of innovative practices in urban areas was highlighted, from the nurturing of eco-friendly communities in Eswatini to the low-carbon strategies of Seoul, signaling a collective international momentum towards sustainable living and policy initiatives.
As the forum concluded, participants left with a shared vision, reinforced by the robust exchange of strategies and experiences, illustrating that a sustainable, net-zero future is not only possible but well within reach—when cities around the world unite in their efforts.
Key Questions and Answers:
1. What is the significance of Kaohsiung’s efforts in hosting the “2024 Kaohsiung Smart City Expo”?
Hosting the event demonstrates Kaohsiung’s commitment to advancing sustainable urban development and facilitating international collaboration on digital and green transformations. It showcases Kaohsiung’s endeavor to learn from and contribute to global solutions for achieving net-zero emissions and smart governance.
2. What are the main challenges associated with the transition to sustainable urban development?
The transition faces numerous challenges, including technological advancements, financing such transitions, addressing industrial legacies, policy alignment, and the need for workforce re-skilling. Additionally, equity and inclusion remain a challenge to ensure all segments of society benefit from sustainable development.
3. Are there any controversies surrounding sustainable urban development?
Controversies can arise over the costs of transformation, the impact on existing jobs and industries, and debates over which technologies and approaches are most effective and sustainable in the long-term. Some may contest prioritizing certain sustainability or digital advancements over more immediate social needs.
Advantages and Disadvantages:
Advantages:
– Hosting a global forum on sustainable urban development can position Kaohsiung as a leader in climate change mitigation and smart city solutions.
– It encourages the exchange of best practices and fosters international partnerships.
– It supports the local economy by attracting international visitors and investments.
Disadvantages:
– It requires a significant investment of resources and may divert attention and funding from other important local issues.
– Differences in political agendas, economic capabilities, and developmental stages of participating cities may limit the applicability of shared strategies.
Suggested Related Links:
To explore more about sustainable urban development and smart city initiatives, you can visit the official websites of international organizations that participated in the Kaohsiung forum:
– ICLEI – Local Governments for Sustainability: ICLEI
– CityNet – The Regional Network of Local Authorities for the Management of Human Settlements: CityNet
– WeGO – World Smart Sustainable Cities Organization: WeGO
These links are provided for additional context and represent organizations actively involved in discussions and initiatives similar to those addressed at the Kaohsiung’s forum.
The source of the article is from the blog combopop.com.br
