The Municipality of Baião has taken another firm step towards sustainability by joining the Cities for Climate Network, a national initiative that aims to accelerate the transition of Portuguese cities to climate neutrality. This membership represents Baião’s alignment with the principles of the Paris Agreement and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, reinforcing its commitment to a greener, fairer and more resilient future.
The Cities for Climate Network brings together municipalities and regions that share the ambition to transform their territories into more sustainable, inclusive spaces that are prepared for the challenges of climate change. It arises in the context of the European Mission ‘100 Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities by 2030, by and for Citizens’ and aims to be a driver of innovation, collaboration and concrete action.
Baião’s membership of this network is part of a strategic vision that recognises the fundamental role of cities in the fight against climate change. Although they occupy only 3% of the Earth’s surface, cities are responsible for around 72% of global greenhouse gas emissions.
With this decision, the municipality is committed to developing public policies and projects that promote decarbonisation, energy efficiency, sustainable mobility, biodiversity protection and climate justice. This is a collective effort that requires collaboration between the public sector, the private sector, academia and civil society.
The Cities for Climate Network offers Baião the opportunity to share experiences, access technical and scientific knowledge, and integrate pilot projects that can serve as examples for other regions. In addition, it allows the municipality to position itself strategically to attract European and national funding for innovative climate actions.
Joining the network is also an invitation to citizens to participate actively. Climate transition will only be possible with the involvement of everyone — from policy makers to local communities, schools, businesses and associations. Change begins with every gesture, every choice, every project that puts the environment and people at the centre of decisions.
Baião thus reaffirms its commitment to sustainable development that respects the territory, values natural resources and promotes the well-being of present and future generations. Climate neutrality is a global challenge, but it starts with local actions.
