WORLD RESOURCES INSTITUTE WRI ROSS CENTER FOR SUSTAINABLE CITIES

Established in 2014, the center is part of the World Resources Institute (WRI), a non-profit think tank dedicated to environmental protection and sustainable development. The WRI Ross Center for Sustainable Cities works with cities, governments, and private sector partners to develop and implement sustainable urban planning and management practices. One of the key areas of focus for the WRI Ross Center for Sustainable Cities is the development of green and resilient cities. This involves promoting the use of green infrastructure, such as parks and green roofs, to mitigate the urban heat island effect and improve air quality. The center also works to enhance the resilience of cities to climate-related disasters, such as floods and heatwaves, through the development of early warning systems and emergency preparedness plans. The WRI Ross Center for Sustainable Cities has conducted extensive research on the economic benefits of sustainable urban development. A 2020 study found that investing in green infrastructure can generate significant economic returns, including increased property values and reduced healthcare costs. The study also highlighted the importance of involving local communities in the planning and decision-making process to ensure that sustainable urban development is equitable and inclusive. The center has also developed a range of tools and resources to support cities in their efforts to become more sustainable. These include the City Climate Information Platform, which provides cities with access to climate data and analytics, and the Green and Resilient Cities program, which offers technical assistance and capacity-building support to cities in developing countries. The WRI Ross Center for Sustainable Cities has worked with over 100 cities worldwide, including major metropolises such as New York City, London, and Tokyo. The center's work is guided by a commitment to equity, inclusion, and social justice. The WRI Ross Center for Sustainable Cities recognizes that sustainable urban development must be inclusive and equitable, with benefits shared by all members of society. The center works to ensure that its research and recommendations are grounded in the needs and perspectives of local communities, and that its work is informed by a deep understanding of the social, economic, and environmental context of each city.