Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation

At the Urban Management Centre (UMC), we recognize the intricate relationship between climate resilience and urban development, positioning ourselves at the forefront of global efforts to mitigate and adapt to climate change. UMC's strategic initiatives in this domain are designed to transform urban areas into models of sustainability and resilience, capable of withstanding the challenges posed by changing climates.

UMC has been instrumental in crafting Climate Action Plans that serve as critical blueprints for sustainable urban development. In Chennai, our collaboration with the C40 Cities Climate Leadership Group has led to the integration of robust climate resilience measures into the city's comprehensive planning process for 2026-2046. This initiative focuses on low-carbon infrastructure, energy-efficient buildings, and inclusive urban design to create a sustainable urban future. Similarly, for Guwahati, UMC is developing an ambitious Climate Action Plan targeting carbon neutrality by 2070, which includes a thorough Climate Change Risk Assessment to inform policy and practical measures.

In partnership with WHO-SEARO, UMC has developed and disseminated a pioneering guide alongside training modules that enhance the climate resilience of healthcare facilities across the Southeast Asian region. This initiative is based on WHO’s framework and is designed to ensure that healthcare operations are maintained during extreme climate events. It emphasizes sustainable practices within the health sector, facilitating resilience through environmental sustainability. This comprehensive program includes country-level consultations and custom-designed tools to aid in effective implementation.

In our quest for urban energy sustainability, UMC has actively engaged in promoting and implementing energy conservation measures. Our work includes the development of an implementation roadmap for the Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC) in Madhya Pradesh, and assisting Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) in Gujarat with ECBC implementation. We support local governments in overcoming institutional and financial barriers to energy efficiency, enhancing service delivery systems, and fostering the adoption of energy-efficient infrastructure in buildings and transportation.

Aligned with the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, UMC's initiatives in disaster management are tailored to enhance urban resilience. Our notable projects include the CityLinks Post-Tsunami Recovery Program in Tamil Nadu, which facilitated knowledge exchange and recovery strategies between affected Indian cities and their counterparts in Florida, USA. Furthermore, UMC has developed comprehensive Disaster Management Plans for ULBs in Andhra Pradesh, integrating effective communication strategies to ensure community preparedness and resilience in the face of natural disasters.

Facing the challenges of burgeoning vehicle populations and stressed public transport systems, UMC advocates for sustainable transportation solutions that improve air quality and drive economic vitality. Our targeted training programs and assessments for city managers from Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh focus on adopting sustainable urban transport practices that are crucial for the development of healthier, more efficient urban environments.