About
Who we are
ICLEI – Local Governments for Sustainability is a global network working with more than 2500 local and regional governments committed to sustainable urban development.
Active in 125+ countries, we influence sustainability policy and drive local action for zero emission, nature-based, equitable, resilient and circular development. Our Members and team of experts work together through peer exchange, partnerships and capacity building to create systemic change for urban sustainability.
ICLEI’s Cities Biodiversity Center (CBC) is located in Cape Town, South Africa, embedded in the Africa Regional Office of ICLEI. We offer cities a broad portfolio of supportive services through our dedicated team of passionate, skilled and dynamic biodiversity and urban development experts.
Over the past two decades, we have worked closely with the United Nations Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and a range of partners to elevate the voice of local and subnational governments and ensure that strong action is taken to create vibrant cities and regions, where people and biodiversity can thrive.
Through our ICLEI CBC programmes and initiatives we seek local solutions and promote innovation to address the complex issues surrounding natural capital and the degradation of ecosystem services in a rapidly urbanizing world. The CBC recognizes the crucial role that cities and local governments play in the pursuit of a greener existence through efficiently integrating urban development and biodiversity management at the local level.
ICLEI CBC offers ICLEI Members the following opportunities and services
Access to dedicated tools and capacity-building engagements
Peer-to-peer learning and networking opportunities
International profiling and engagement platforms
Influencing at Conference of Parties of the UN Conventions and participating in other international conferences and events
Participation in global, regional and national cities-led programmes
ICLEI CBC designs and leads transformative projects that put nature at the heart of local and regional development. Our flagship initiatives provide practical tools, capacity building, and on-the-ground action to help cities and regions deliver on global biodiversity goals.