Cool and climate-neutral cities are collaborative: inclusive, transdisciplinary, and integrated approaches for urban climate adaptation and mitigation

2024

November 6th

At Goethe Institut

The 95th Cairo Climate Talks was held as a side event to the 12th session of the World Urban Forum in Cairo. The panel discussion brought together leaders from Egypt and Germany to address the impacts of climate change on vulnerable urban populations, explore various adaptation strategies, and highlight the critical role of citizens in these processes.
“Cities are not just an agglomeration of buildings; they must be human-centered, with the needs of their inhabitants at their core,” the panel emphasized. Discussions delved into innovative approaches to sustainable building and infrastructure as solutions to mitigate urban heat—a pressing global concern.
The panel also examined climate-neutral urban development and the importance of inclusivity in climate policy, drawing on best practices from the German city of Leipzig and Egyptian initiatives. Key topics included financing climate projects, achieving equitable transitions, and the urgency of developing just and inclusive solutions to urban challenges.
Adding a creative dimension to the event, Egyptian artists Mohamed Kotb and Nora Zeid presented selected works that explored the challenges faced by Egyptian cities and their residents, enriching the discussions with a cultural perspective.


Opening and Welcoming words

Ms. Lorena Mohr, Head of Science and Protocol at the German Embassy in Cairo.

Mr Jan Schultheiß, Federal Ministry for Housing, Urban Development and Building.

This session highlighted Germany’s commitment to its NDCs and its active role in climate negotiations and financing, with notable projects such as Wind of Change and Nawafei. It also provided an in-depth look at Egypt’s second NDCs, focusing on adaptation policies, energy sector improvements, and financial mobilization efforts.

Emphasizing the importance of national and local collaboration, this session showcased the benefits of inclusive policy development and stakeholder engagement. The discussion advocated for a whole-of-society approach to effectively implement NDCs.

Key factors for project bankability were addressed, with a focus on successful projects like the West Bakr Wind Farm. The session stressed the importance of structured planning and clear criteria for attracting financing.

Panelists

Moderator

Dr. Beate Ginzel

Director, Mayor’s Office Digital City Unit, City of Leipzig

Dr. Marwa Ahmad

Head of the International and focal funding at the Urban Development Fund, city of Aswan

Eng. Rasha Emad Eldin

Co-founder and Chairwoman of BENAA Foundation

Professor Nabil Alhady

Professor of Architecture at Cairo University

Dr. Mohammad Salheen

Head of Urban Design and Planning Department at the Faculty of Engineering Ain Shams University

Meet our Moderator

Ms. Lorena Mohr

Head of Science and Protocol at the German Embassy in Cairo

Are you interested? Don’t miss out by registering to our events. We hope to see you there.