So impressive! These admirable cities were selected by the jury as contenders for the two Global Winner positions. A real feat as they were chosen from a pool of ambitious cities that had succeded through the first rigorous selection round. See below for list of National Finalists.

22 Global Finalists from the previous OPCC round were invited to join a special category designed to accelerate action and ambition among leading cities. We compared previously reported data with this year's report to evaluate whether continued progress was being made toward meeting ambitious targets. 

These OPCC Legends were also invited to join WWF-led knowledge sharing activities which confirmed how cities face many of the same challenges despite varying circumstances, and  how much they can learn from each other's experiences.  

NATIONAL FINALISTS 2024

Congratulations to the following cities on their selection as finalists in their respective countries. These cities will now be reviewed by the OPCC international jury of urban experts to identify the National and Global Winners of the One Planet City Challenge 2024. 

Cities drive global GDP and generate the majority of the world’s carbon emissions. Cities are also the place where the rubber meets the road when it comes to climate action. When urban citizens want action, it is usually their  locally elected officials they turn to first – city officials have both the mandate and the influence to answer the call for climate action

Cities are where multiple, interlinked issues come into play, and where climate change solutions can be tried and tested. Cities can provide the world with much needed hope, ingenuity, and creativity.

• Support in setting science-based targets that reflect Paris Agreement goals.
• Customized feedback report on each city’s alignment with the Paris Agreement and assessment of their climate work including:
  • Support in understanding and structuring your overall climate performance
  • Guidance on science-based targets
• Collaboration with leading city networks including the Global Covenant of Mayors, ICLEI, C40 and CDP.
• Recognition of achievements on WWF and partners’ communications channels.
• All OPCC finalists are invited to participate in the We Love Cities public engagement campaign. 
• Toolbox with guidance on design of a climate action package and educational materials aimed at increasing public participation and involvement.
• Opportunity to tap into available WWF programs on capacity-building, urban nature-based solutions, transport, waste, food and more.