Karachi’s Membership Restored in C40 Cities Network
Karachi has officially regained its membership in the prestigious C40 Cities Climate Leadership Group, a global network of cities committed to addressing climate change. The announcement came from Mayor Murtaza Wahab on Tuesday, marking a significant milestone for the city after its suspension in 2022.
The C40 Cities network is a collective of major urban centers worldwide, working collaboratively to combat climate challenges and drive sustainable development. Karachi’s membership was initially suspended due to non-compliance with the network’s requirements, but its reinstatement highlights the city’s renewed commitment to climate action.
Paris-Aligned Climate Action Plan (CAP)
Mayor Wahab revealed that the restoration was made possible by Karachi’s progress in developing a Paris-Aligned Climate Action Plan (CAP). In a letter to the mayor, Mark Watts, the Executive Director of the C40 Cities Climate Group, acknowledged Karachi’s significant efforts in aligning with global climate leadership standards.
Watts expressed confidence that Karachi would meet the 2021–2024 Leadership Standards by the March 2025 deadline. This includes completing and implementing the CAP, which aims to address critical environmental challenges such as carbon reduction, sustainable urban development, and climate resilience.
A Step Towards Global Climate Leadership
Speaking about the milestone, Mayor Wahab emphasized the importance of Karachi’s reinstatement in the C40 network:
“Rejoining this global network is a testament to Karachi’s dedication to combating climate change and implementing sustainable policies. This milestone aligns the city with global efforts to build a more resilient and environmentally friendly future.”
What’s Next for Karachi?
The reinstatement paves the way for Karachi to participate actively in the C40 Cities initiatives, which include sharing knowledge, accessing resources, and adopting innovative solutions to climate challenges. By meeting the Leadership Standards and implementing the CAP, Karachi aims to position itself as a leader in urban climate resilience within the region.
Karachi’s restoration to the C40 Cities network is not just a win for the city but also a step forward in Pakistan’s broader climate strategy. It underscores the importance of collaborative global efforts in tackling one of the most pressing issues of our time.
