Overview

The final webinar in the series turns its attention to the future, exploring what a just, inclusive, and sustainable urban climate transition could look like for cities across Asia. Drawing on the insights and lessons from previous sessions, this discussion will examine how cities can move beyond fragmented responses toward more holistic strategies that prioritize fairness, equity, and long-term resilience. At the heart of this conversation is the principle of a Just Transition, ensuring that climate action does not exacerbate existing inequalities but instead creates opportunities for better jobs, healthier environments, and more inclusive urban development.

As cities navigate increasing climate risks, economic pressures, and tightening fiscal environments, the session will highlight how financing, governance, and innovation must evolve in tandem. It will explore the kinds of tools, partnerships, and policies that can help cities lead the shift toward net-zero, without leaving behind vulnerable populations or under-resourced urban areas. Speakers will reflect on the political and institutional choices that lie ahead, and how cities can shape both national and global agendas in this decisive climate decade.

Session Goals

• Reflect on how lessons from previous sessions inform strategies for advancing just and inclusive urban transitions.
• Identify emerging tools, trends, and innovations that can accelerate equitable climate action at the city level.
• Examine how urban climate finance, including public investment, climate funds, and private capital, can be better aligned with just transition goals.
• Discuss the role of multilevel governance, regional cooperation, and city networks in scaling inclusive and accountable climate strategies.
• Explore forward-looking approaches for embedding justice, participation, and resilience in future urban climate pathways
• Highlight context-specific approaches and “Asian ways of doing” that reflect regional values, priorities, and lived urban realities in shaping just climate transitions.

Background Context

From Reflection to Foresight

As the webinar series concludes, this session invites cities to step back and reflect on the broader climate landscape, both what has been learned and what lies ahead. The urgency of climate action is growing, and cities must be ready to adapt to rapid shifts in climate science, technology, and governance.

• What have been the biggest shifts in your city’s climate approach over the past few years?
• What new trends or risks are you preparing for?

Just Transition: Innovation, Participation, and Inclusion

A just urban transition calls for more than emissions cuts; it requires inclusive processes that protect livelihoods, prioritize vulnerable groups, and ensure that no one is left behind. Cities are beginning to integrate equity into climate innovation by aligning green infrastructure, job creation, and social protection with participatory decision-making.

• What kinds of innovations (technical or social) are advancing just transitions in your city?
• How are workers, informal communities, and youth being engaged in shaping fair and inclusive climate futures?

The Role of Networks and Collaboration

City networks and inter-city collaborations have become essential platforms for knowledge exchange, joint advocacy, and capacity building. They play a critical role in amplifying local voices on global stages.

• How have regional or international networks supported your city’s climate journey?
• What kinds of peer learning or partnerships have had the greatest impact?

Shaping National and Global Agendas

As sub-national governments become more central to climate outcomes, cities have an opportunity to shape policies at higher levels. This session asks how cities can move from implementers to influencers.

• What has helped your city get a seat at the national or global climate table?
• What advocacy or governance models can elevate urban voices more effectively?

Panelist Role and Format

• Each panelist will be given 12–15 minutes for a presentation.
• Presentations may be conceptual, research-based, or grounded in case studies.
• A moderated discussion and Q&A will follow.

Panelists are encouraged to:

• Present accessible and visually engaging slides (if using any).
• Use examples from their work or region.

Outcomes Expected

• Inspire cities to situate their climate work within global narratives.
• Help bridge national and sub-national climate governance gaps.
• Foster a sense of shared purpose across the INHAF, CityNet, AIDMI, and CANSA networks.
• Begin shaping context-driven, regionally grounded approaches, and the “Asian Way” to urban climate adaptation.