COP27: GCC, TCR, USGBC event highlighted U.S. state and city climate leadership

Over the past two weeks, more than 45,000 attendees from around the globe – including more than 100 heads of state – gathered in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt for the 27th UN Framework Convention on Climate Change Conference of the Parties, known as COP27. Among the participants were GCC Executive Director Kate Zyla and Adaptation Program Director Mark Rupp, who joined our partners at The Climate Registry and U.S. Green Building Council to highlight U.S. climate leadership at the state and local levels in an official COP27 side event.

Held on Thursday, Nov. 10, the event – titled, "Achieving Measurable Climate Benefits Through Innovative Infrastructure Investments in the United States" – featured a keynote address from Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb, followed by panels of state and local leaders from California, Hawaii, Indiana, Maryland, and Mississippi. 

“State and local action forms a cornerstone of climate progress in the U.S.,” said Kate Zyla. “It was energizing to partner with The Climate Registry and the U.S. Green Building Council at the COP to spotlight some of the forward-thinking leaders who are driving efforts to deploy clean energy projects, reduce emissions, and improve resilience in our country, while working to ensure that the benefits of these efforts are shared equitably. While there is still much to be done to advance just climate action on a global scale, the example set by these subnational leaders is truly inspiring.”

Speakers shared their experiences developing and implementing programs that advance net-zero emissions goals and the challenges they have moved to overcome to deliver measurable progress toward environmental, social, and economic benefits of modernizing infrastructure and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The discussions especially highlighted investments allowing for equitable access to clean drinking water, energy supplies, housing, and low-carbon transportation options. The event was livestreamed and recorded, and can be viewed on the UNFCCC's YouTube channel.

Watch the recording of the COP27 event presented by GCC, TCR, and USGBC