FAO Green Cities Network: How Cities Around the World Are Building Greener, Healthier and More Sustainable Urban Communities
The FAO Green Cities Network is an international community of cities working to address urban challenges by integrating nature, food systems, forestry, and sustainable economic development into urban planning.
Overview
The FAO Green Cities Network is a global community of cities committed to making urban and peri-urban environments greener, healthier, more inclusive, and sustainable. Led by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the initiative helps cities integrate nature, food systems, forestry, and sustainable economic development into urban planning. The Network focuses on three core areas:
- Urban and Peri-Urban Forestry: The planning, management, and protection of trees and forests in and around cities to improve air quality, reduce urban heat, and support biodiversity.
- Urban and Peri-Urban Agriculture: Food production and related agricultural activities within cities and surrounding areas to strengthen local food systems and improve access to fresh food.
- Sustainable Bioeconomy: Promoting responsible use of biological resources, reducing waste, and supporting environmentally responsible economic activities.
Benefits
Participating cities and local authorities gain access to an international community focused on sustainable urban development, offering several key advantages:
- Knowledge Exchange: Share experiences, approaches, and lessons learned from implementing urban greening initiatives with other locations.
- City-to-City Collaboration: Cooperate with peers working on similar urban challenges and exchange practical knowledge.
- Recognition of Successful Initiatives: Receive recognition for demonstrating leadership in innovative and successful greening strategies.
- Improved Urban Environments: Contribute to healthier, more sustainable urban areas with better access to nature, recreation, and community well-being.
- Global Goals Alignment: Contribute directly to United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, including Zero Hunger, Good Health and Well-Being, Sustainable Cities and Communities, Climate Action, and Life on Land.
Eligibility
The Green Cities Network is particularly relevant to cities, local authorities, and stakeholders interested in developing sustainable urban policies and practical greening initiatives. Relevant sectors include:
- Urban planning and environmental management
- Forestry, agriculture, and food systems
- Climate action and biodiversity conservation
- Public health and sustainable development
- Local economic development, green infrastructure, and community development
How to Apply
Interested cities and local authorities can review official guidelines and submit their participation details through the online application portal provided by the Food and Agriculture Organization.
Deadline
Applications for the FAO Green Cities Network are ongoing with no fixed short-term closing date, supporting a long-term goal to assist 1,000 cities by 2030.