According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change's latest studies, if the Earth’s average global temperature rises by more than 1.5 degrees Celsius, it will cause irreversible damage that will jeopardise our survival. If we continue our emissions at the current rate, we could reach 3 degrees Celsius by the end of the century. We must therefore gear the whole system towards achieving zero carbon emissions by 2050 as a matter of urgency.

Five countries alone are responsible for almost 60% of greenhouse gas emissions, and only twenty multinational companies for 35%. Climate justice means that those who are most responsible must make the greatest effort. Those who are suffering the worst consequences and have the fewest options for adapting should not have further burdens placed upon them. Now more than ever we need to look after the most vulnerable people and compel those who can do the most to take transformative action.

Cities have much of the solution in their own hands, and they must also lead the main demands. Barcelona City Council wants to be the leader in this opportunity to speed up the necessary cross-cutting changes in the way we live. We need everyone to get involved and join forces with all the players involved.