More than ever, we need to take the necessary steps to bring again the environment at the top of the global agenda. To improve the health of the planet, serious steps should be done, but most of them begin with the urban governance. 

Maurice Strong, chair of the Rio 1992 Summit, said:

"If sustainable development does not start in the cities, it simply will not go. Cities have to lead the way"

As a matter of fact:

- Cities occupy  2% of the Earth surface
- Cities produce 78% of carbon emission
- Cities consume 60% of water tapped for use by people

To contribute to the next WSSD Johannesburg 2002, IDRC and the Mayor of Montreal City, called for a reflection session to "Re-thinking the City" on June 27 in Montreal, Canada.

Local policy makers, regional governments, the private sector, civil society, research centres and financial institutes are invited to participate to find lasting and effective solutions to the urban environmental problems at the globalization age.

EMS will contribute to the urban governance with its Penta Local multi-stake holder mechanism, guided by the “ sharing city” concept.  

Re-Thinking the City will give the opportunity  to cities and towns from countries of North America, Latin America and Europe, to confront in an open discussion different views and realities simply sharing experiences, despite their vast differences.
UP