"Net Zero Readiness: 50 cities in international climate comparison

Cities are far more relevant in tackling the climate crisis than many presumably realise: cities account for more than 50 per cent of the world's population, 80 per cent of global gross domestic product and more than 70 per cent of annual greenhouse gas emissions. It is expected that 70 percent of the world's population will live in cities by 2050. This development will not only pose major challenges for the energy infrastructure.

This responsibility of urban space on the way to a climate-neutral future is the subject of the KPMG study "Net Zero Readiness spotlight: cities". International experts examine the status quo and progress of 50 cities in reducing emissions - from Hamburg to Hong Kong. The publication highlights exemplary solutions so that ambitious climate targets can be achieved more quickly while simultaneously pursuing economic growth ambitions.

Using various performance indicators in five sectors, the report sheds light on how ready for change each city is: Energy, Connectivity & Mobility, Industry, Building Stock and Waste & Sewerage. "Readiness" top scores were only awarded seven times in the industrial sector (Hamburg, Toronto, Vancouver, Quebec City, Panama City, London and Chicago) and once in the mobility sector (Oslo).

The selected cities are divided into two groups: Pacesetters, whose transformation efforts and successes are rated above average, and Progressors, the second group. Our authors use figures, graphics and analyses to focus on individual cities separately and show which specific opportunities and challenges exist.

Data analysis for evidence-based climate policy at the municipal level, collaborations with the private sector and technological solutions are increasingly important in the transformation of urban space. The report also points to new financing models for accelerated transformation. It also shows how essential refined governance can be: Better-ranked cities rely on innovations such as "green budgets" or sustainable procurement.

Download the report "Net Zero Readiness spotlight: cities" with all figures, graphics and analyses here.