C40 is a global network of nearly 100 mayors of the world’s leading cities that are united in action to confront the climate crisis. Mayors of C40 cities are committed to using an inclusive, science-based and collaborative approach to cut their fair share of emissions in half by 2030, help the world limit global heating to 1.5°C, and build healthy, equitable and resilient communities.

Zachary Tofias serves as the Director of the Food and Waste Programme at C40. His work supports C40 cities’ transition toward regenerative resource management and reducing emissions through more sustainable consumption. The Food and Waste Programme is helping cities accelerate a worldwide transition to more effective municipal solid waste management, and the implementation of comprehensive solutions that reduce carbon emissions and increase resiliency throughout the urban food system.

Zach has been with the C40 Cities Climate Leadership Group since 2007 in partnership with the Clinton Climate Initiative. Over the course of this time, he has been City Director in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, created and led the Climate Positive Development Programme, was the head of Urban Planning and Development, and recently was the Interim Director of Adaptation.

Show Notes:

[1:14] - Zachary describes C40 and what the mission and unique structure is.
[2:16] - C40 started in 2006 as a global collaboration of mega cities.
[3:44] - Accelerators are science-based targets that show what is the highest level of science-based actions that cities should be taking.
[5:45] - Zach explains the peer cities model C40 uses to collaborate globally.
[11:35] - Large cities are the form of government that is closest to the people.
[13:47] - Zach is extremely optimistic about the opportunities for action towards making people’s lives better.
[15:47] - Engaging with the private sector is a space of enormous possibility.
[17:08] - Zach lists some of the areas of opportunities and solutions.
[18:44] - Everybody can and should be involved in the climate space.

Links and Resources:

• C40 Website