Role of local governments in promoting renewable energy businesses: a contribution to the green urban economy

Although policy-makers and entrepreneurs across the world are increasingly talking about the green economy, much of this debate still centers on the state of the global economy at the nation-state level. The role of renewable energy sourcing remains limited, while dependence on fossil fuels remains high. At the same time, local governments are increasingly recognized to play a crucial role in the design and the implementation of innovative, climate-friendly policies. Due to an increasingly active network of local leaders - supported by organizations such as ICLEI - Local Governments for Sustainability - a consensus is emerging that the notion of "think global - act local" remains imperative to find sustainable solutions to the challenges of resource scarcity and climate change. […] ICLEI’s work across the world has long emphasized the need to look at concrete possibilities to improve the environmental footprint of municipalities, with hands-on advice to local projects and a series of international conferences in recent years. This Global Report presents therefore a meaningful opportunity to share important research with local governments and the international community.