Local governments and climate change sustainable energy planning and implementation in small and medium sized communities

The successful European Rovigo Climate Conference 2008 provided the impetus and extensive contents for this publication.

"Province of Povigo; Fondazione Cassa di risparmio di Padova e Rovigo."

Includes bibliographical references and index.

Introduction -- Motivation for action -- Strategic framework for supporting local action -- Local action : planning and implementation -- Framework conditions and support mechanisms -- Selected case studies illustrating the three streams of action -- Conclusion.

The focus of 'Local governments and climate change' is on how small and medium-sized communities in Europe are effectively responding to climate change, with a particular focus on different approaches used in sustainable energy planning and implementation. A number of cases prsented show the result of different (and often combined) motivations and actions. The most effective responses are those with a holistic, integrated and long-term approach, addressing both climate change mitigation and adaptation, based on citizen and other local stakeholder involvement. Local climate action means addressing different sectors, from buildings to waste, but also involving the industry and business sectors. The focus is on engaging communities on a large scale. Local governments, together with other actors, play an essential role in this regard: creating a vision for the community, developing relevant strategies, implementing effective policies and rolling out actions. They lead citizens, act in an exemplary manner, and improve energy use in services.