Overview

C40 is a global network of nearly one hundred mayors from the world’s leading cities working collectively to deliver climate action and promote sustainable development in urban settings. The group specifically works to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve resilience to climate change impacts, and spread environmentally friendly policies. C40 is essential in empowering cities to take action in areas where national governments may fall short, most notably in transportation, energy use, and infrastructure. In this committee, delegates will work towards creating more environmentally friendly urban zones by addressing the issues of sustainable waste management and managing urban population growth.

Topic 1: Sustainable Waste Management

Waste management within cities has always been challenging as densely populated areas produce large volumes of waste, but rapid urbanization and population growth has made the issue more challenging than ever before. Many urban areas struggle with inadequate waste collection systems and limited recycling abilities, leading to pollution and environmental degradation that can lead to public health risks. Poor waste management can also contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and the contamination of water resources, which are consequences that disproportionately affect low income countries. In this committee, delegates must examine how infrastructure, policy enforcement, and public awareness play a role in waste systems being inefficient and explore strategies that reduce waste, boost recycling, and create urban sanitation practices.

Topic 2: Managing Urban Population Growth

The management of urban population growth has become an increasingly important issue as more people move into cities in search of jobs, education, and better living conditions. Economic struggles and threats of climate change have driven more people into urban centers than ever before. Rapid population growth often occurs faster than the development of housing, transportation, and other forms of public infrastructure creating challenges such as housing shortages, traffic congestion, and unequal access to resources. In many regions unplanned expansions can also lead to informal settlements and widening social inequality. In this committee, delegates will explore strategies that support sustainable growth and improve the quality of life in growing cities.