The book Urban Sustainable Development: Governance, Finance, and Politics is the result of a collaborative effort between the Brazilian Center for International Relations (CEBRI) and the Rio de Janeiro City Hall, with contributions from Global Knowledge Partner Institutions, including the Rio G20 Committee, the Penn Institute for Urban Research (Penn IUR), the Policy Center for the New South (PCNS), the Columbia Global Center Rio de Janeiro, the Inter-American Dialogue, and the Atlantic Council.
As emphasized by the editors, the volume stems from a shared recognition of the pivotal role that cities, such as Rio de Janeiro, played during Brazil's G20 presidency and the need to amplify global discourse on sustainable development by deepening focus on its urban and local dimensions.
Two thematic sections comprise the book. The first provides an introduction to conceptual foundations for integrating climate mitigation and adaptation strategies in urban areas, addressing sustainable urban development with particular relevance to developing countries, principles of ethical urban governance, and the significance of city diplomacy and governance networks in advancing climate action and sustainability within urban settings.
The second section delves into models of city leadership, urban climate finance agendas, digital equity, and climate justice. It presents studies on climate perceptions in the developing world, the role of smart cities, sustainable urban mobility, and global case studies, underscoring key insights for adaptive policies that address climate risks and foster equity and health in urban environments.
What sets this book apart is its diverse pool of contributors, including academics, national and subnational government leaders, and experts in sustainable finance. This multidisciplinary approach ensures a well-rounded perspective, blending rigorous research with practical insights. In a time of increasingly extreme challenges for cities and the world, we hope the volume contributes to setting the agenda for cities as solutions for the Sustainable Development Goals. Its pages are for both consultation and inspiration.
The book is available for download in digital format.