3 Climate Trends - Issue 17

3 Climate Trends - Issue 17

The impact of greenways, the top nature stories of 2024 and the world's most resilient tree species – these are the stories covered in this issue of the World Economic Forum’s 3 Climate Trends newsletter, your guide to climate, nature and sustainability in an ever-changing world.


1. How #greenways can boost nature-positive living by shaping urban #mobility

Urban greenways are multipurpose paths or strips of land in cities that are protected for environmental or recreational purposes.

Building connectivity through greenways is a win-win: it’s good for nature and for active mobility.

Cities in China and Costa Rica are using greenways to shape urban mobility and build stronger connections between their citizens and the surrounding natural environment.

In San José, a citizen-led urban planning solution is coordinating numerous independent property owners and multiple private sector organizations to create 40 km of nature paths around privately owned riverbanks.

Meanwhile, in Guangzhou, the Institute for Transportation and Development Policy is implementing infrastructure that prioritizes greener mobility by developing pedestrian and cycling-friendly greenways, parks and open spaces to better connect its public transport and bus systems with accessible and sustainable streets.

Learn more about the importance of nature-positive cities in this article from Federico Cartín Arteaga and Heather Thompson .


2. These are the top #nature stories of #2024

The year 2024 brought both environmental challenges and signs of hope.

From the breaching of planetary boundaries to the first "finance COP" that mobilized $300 billion in climate finance and created a global framework for carbon markets, explore the key environmental stories from last year in this video.


3. These may be the world’s 3 most #resilient #tree species

More than 1 in 3 tree species worldwide are at risk of extinction, according to research from the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources ( IUCN ).

Tree and plant species face many threats, including from the climate crisis, disease and deforestation for urban development and agriculture.

Human activity is affecting tree cover across the globe.

While urgent conservation action is needed, there are many examples of how trees themselves can be resilient or adapt to adverse conditions.

  • Baobabs have non-flammable bark that makes them resistant to wildfires and they store large amounts of water in their trunks to survive dry seasons.
  • Giant sequoias are resistant to insects and disease and have thick bark and high canopies that protect them against fires.
  • Mangroves have grown to survive in hot, muddy and salty conditions that would kill off most plants.

Learn more about these resilient tree species here.


Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. For more detailed analysis, follow the World Economic Forum. See you in the next issue for more updates on #nature, #climate and #sustainability.


The World Economic Forum 's Annual Meeting will take place in Davos from 20–24 January 2025, where global leaders will convene to address key global and regional challenges.

You can follow the sessions which will be livestreamed here and you can use the hashtag #wef25 to join the discussion on our digital channels.

Urban greenways, like those in San José and Guangzhou, show how cities can improve mobility while harmonizing with nature. Protecting resilient tree species such as mangroves and baobabs emphasizes the importance of ecological balance and climate adaptability. These initiatives inspire practical solutions that combine urban development with biodiversity conservation, reflecting the innovative actions needed to address climate challenges effectively.

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Joseph Chakravarthi Chavali

Consultant, IICA Certified Independent Director, ESG Professional | Aviation Career Guidance, Regulatory Compliance

2mo

It is an inspiring and informative article! It's heartening to see the positive steps being taken globally to address climate change and promote sustainability. The focus on urban greenways is particularly exciting, as it demonstrates how cities can integrate nature into their infrastructure, benefiting both the environment and citizens' well-being. The resilience of tree species like baobabs, giant sequoias, and mangroves is truly remarkable, showcasing nature's incredible adaptability. It's encouraging to see the World Economic Forum highlighting these important issues and fostering discussions on climate, nature, and sustainability. Looking forward to seeing more innovative solutions and collaborative efforts emerging from the upcoming Annual Meeting in Davos!

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Jason D. Meininger

Author: One to Know, Common Sense 2020, Political Theory of Everything ~ after World Expo 2020, Senior Aide at U.S. State Department, U.S. Senate

2mo
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Mervin Khumalo

Mediating and Contracting Organization at TheMerv$

2mo

This I a simple climate friendly modification Refinery plant can use to reduce thier carbon foot print effects

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