Cities Alliance for Quality of Life & Environment
In the 21st century, cities have become the main arena of human activity and complex and dynamic spaces, in which the future of society is constantly being shaped. Cities are a source and a focal point for economic growth, opportunities and social shifts. The modern city stands at the forefront of dealing with international and local challenges, including climate change, the housing crisis, social gaps, as well as high levels of population growth.
These processes are exceptionally manifested in Israel, in which 90% of the population lives in urban settings. This reality creates a key role for Israeli cities in shaping our world.
Municipalities have a greater duty than ever before to take firm and effective action to promote and improve the quality of life and environment of their residents.
"Cities Alliance for Quality of Life & Environment" is the next stage of Forum 15's "Climate Convention" (CCP Israel), signed on February 2008, which united Israel's major cities in a joint framework for promoting local sustainability, and placed them in line with other leading cities worldwide.
"Cities Alliance for Quality of Life & Environment" was conceived in order to intensify the Climate Convention’s power and to support the municipalities in the process of its implementation. The outline delineated by the Alliance allows municipalities to contend with matters of climate protection comprehensively, while promoting residents’ high quality of life and maintaining a balance with other urban considerations and needs. The outline provides solutions on all levels, from the tasks of the municipality and its workers to changes of residents’ behavior that could bring them to adopt habits guaranteeing a high quality of life and protecting the environment and climate. The Alliance consists of six chapters which provide work procedures and stages to be executed:
- Sustainable Management
- Energy and Construction
- City Transportation
- Consumption and Waste
- Urban Space
- Community
On March 18, 2018 Forum 15 launched the "Cities Alliance for Quality of Life and the Environment" initiative with a festive signing ceremony in the presence of Forum 15's mayors. The event also included a special guest lecture by the world-known urbanist, founder and chairman of the "8:80 Cities" organization - Gil Penalosa, who presented 5 principles for a sustainable inclusive city.
To view Gil Penalosa's lecture click here (video by: Harmon Azrifer, RePlay Photography Productions).
