The 3rd and Final European Local Government Positioning Paper on Climate and Energy, launched at the end of June 2011, provides an interesting overview of trends relevant to local governments (LGs) across Europe. It was based on input provided by local government representatives from 30 European countries: the EU-27 Member States, Croatia, Liechtenstein, and Norway. The paper is a result of the concluding LG Action project, which explores challenges and needs facing LGs in the current climate and energy situation.

The main conclusions are that sustainable energy and climate protection at the local level are complex fields, requiring commitment, the involvement of multiple stakeholders, financing, supportive policy, and a stable framework in which work can continue. The need for national-local partnerships is clear – yet how these are shaped is an open question to be explored in the near future. The Paper feeds into the ongoing international and European climate negotiations for the post-2012 era, including the Local Government Climate Roadmap.

At the European level, especially when considering the growth of the Covenant of Mayors (CoM), it is clear that this dynamic movement reflects the interest in local climate and energy action. The CoM has doubled in size since the launch of the 2nd Positioning Paper in 2010! It has vast potential for further growth, and has become a key initiative for cities and towns across the European continent. Cities and towns are encouraged to join this growing movement – commit, connect and engage together.

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