The Role of Eco-Municipalities in Climate Change for a Sustainable Future

Abstract

Creating a sustainable future for cities is a critical issue worldwide and municipalities help shape cities from different perspectives. An eco-municipality is a governance strategy and holistic approach to creating sustainable communities and development. The sustainable strategies and projects of these municipalities mostly focus on public participation mechanisms, creating and building renewable energy sources, and designing healthy and green cities. The aim of this chapter is to examine the status of the strongly connected studies concerning global climate change and the eco-municipality model. In this regard, the projects and strategies of Nordic countries which have been pioneers in eco-municipalities and the studies of Turkish municipalities which have recently taken action to develop integrated environmental approaches will be discussed. In addition, an evaluation of projects and strategies of local governments in Turkey relevant to climate change will be critiqued.