Leading co-creation for the green shift

Abstract

In response to pressing problems, scientific warnings and popular demands, European cities are formulating highly ambitious climate mitigation goals. Berlin aims to cut CO2 emission by 60% by 2030. Copenhagen wants to be carbon-neutral by 2025. And Oslo is aiming for a 95% reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. Meeting these goals requires the profound transformation of social and economic systems and the daily behaviour of millions of inhabitants. Much-needed transformations include the development of a new non-fossil energy and transport sector, creating low-carbon circular economies and adopting new forms of sustainable living in smart, compact cities. To bring about the disruptive change required to solve the climate crisis, we need innovative solutions created through collaborative governance. No single public or private actor has the knowledge, resources and creativity to singlehandedly produce and implement the disruptive solutions that help to ensure a sustainable future. Hence, the task is to bring together elected politicians, public managers, researchers, business actors, civil society organisations and citizens in the co-creation of innovative, yet feasible, climate solutions