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Transforming cities for people and planet

UrbanShift supports cities around the world to adopt integrated approaches to urban development, building an equitable, zero-carbon future where both people and planet can thrive.
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We live on a rapidly urbanizing planet, but our cities are struggling to provide basic services to their people – from clean air and water to reliable public transport and safe, affordable housing. As a result of this unprecedented urban growth, carbon emissions are on the rise and pressures on vital ecosystems are intensifying.  

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GREEN & RESILIENT URBANSHIFT AFRICA FORUM 2025

UrbanShift's Forum for Africa will gather leaders from cities and national governments from across the continent to collectively discuss the role of urban planning amidst rapid urbanization and climate challenges.

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CITIES LEADING THE WAY

The need for cities to transform their development trajectory has never been more urgent. UrbanShift works with more than 23 cities across nine countries, bringing together local leaders, national governments and a range of global stakeholders to enable urban development that is both nature-positive and human-centric. Hover over the map below to see the 23 primary cities and 16 secondary cities that form part of UrbanShift (GEF-7 cycle). You can also see the 28 cities that participated in the pilot program  (GEF-6 cycle).

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Now Live: UrbanShift Online City Academy

UrbanShift offers eight free, self-paced courses on essential topics for creating more sustainable, equitable cities. Explore the course offerings and enroll today!

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LATEST NEWS & EVENTS

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ADVANCING GENDER EQUITY THROUGH ACCELERATING CLIMATE FINANCE

The climate crisis is not gender neutral—and the most effective solutions should center the needs and leadership of women and marginalized people.

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Analysis

Unlocking Urban Finance: The Vital Role of Project Preparation for City Projects

As cities work to develop and implement transformative climate projects, access to finance is critical. Project Preparation Facilities (PPFs) can help cities ensure their projects are structured to attract funding.

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Analysis

How Cities are Beating the (Urban) Heat

From innovative data analytics to urban greening, cities like Cape Town and Medellín are tackling the growing extreme heat crisis head-on.

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OUR FUNDER AND PARTNERS

UrbanShift is the brand name of the Global Environment Facility’s Sustainable Cities Impact Program. It is led by the UN Environment Programme and implemented in partnership with the World Resources Institute, C40 Cities, ICLEI – Local Governments for Sustainability, the UN Development Programme, the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank. UrbanShift builds on the lessons and experiences of the Sustainable Cities Integrated Approach Pilot, facilitated through the Global Platform for Sustainable Cities.

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