The craziest thing I learned today is that our cities are responsible for more than 70% of the world’s energy-related greenhouse gas emissions. That’s not all: by 2050, just around the corner, 68% of the world’s population will live in cities. That’s 6.6 billion people!

So with the climate crisis hitting hard, we have to turn our cities green! And some are doing just that: Since 2021, Dutch cities have replaced more than a million and a half pavement tiles with plants. Apart from making space for gardens, ripping out tiles also creates absorbent surfaces that help with drainage and reduce the risk of flooding. Not that you should go out and plant a flower instead of a tile (but maybe? ?)

Questions for Discussion

1. Climate change can often feel like an overwhelming challenge. What are some strategies cities could use to engage their citizens, especially young people, to be a part of the solution?
2. Imagine you are a city planner; what three major changes would you implement to make your city more sustainable by 2050?
3. If you could design a green initiative or project for your local community, what would it look like, and how would you inspire others to join in?
4. What are some simple actions that individuals in cities can take to tackle the environmental crisis? Do you think these small actions make a difference?
5. Do individuals have an obligation to fight climate change, or is it solely on bigger institutions?
6. Some believe that more technology is the solution to environmental issues, while others believe we should return to simpler, less tech-driven lives, that rely less on consumption. What’s your stance and why?