Renew Europe CoR’s Vincent Chauvet is representing the European Committee of the Regions at COP28, discussing issues around sustainable fashion, sport and recycling.

Chauvet, Mayor of Autun in France and Renew Europe CoR coordinator in the Commission for the Environment, Climate Change and Energy (ENVE), travelled to Dubai as part of an official delegation to share experiences from local and regional authorities.

In Autun, French clothes producer DIM is actively supported by the local government on its path to a more sustainable production, such as using less water, less energy and reusing sources.

“Sustainability is high on the agenda, especially today – as just last night an agreement was reached on new ecodesign standards in Brussels. But communication to companies and citizens is what remains key. And what better place to promote sustainable practices than the Olympics 2024,” said Chauvet.

“I trust the EU will include in the COP28 conclusion a clear reference on the key role of regions and cities, as per the Council mandate. We also seek a formal institutional role in global climate negotiations, as in the UN biodiversity process.”

Chauvet’s participation at COP28 comes after the European Council Conclusions for COP28 acknowledged the leadership of local and regional authorities in driving climate action. 

The move, which Chauvet has long been supporting and pushing for, allows local authorities to gain recognition in the EU COP28 negotiating mandate.

Renew Europe CoR believes the only successful climate transition is the one that will have local leaders fully involved in the decision-making process.

#COP28UAE    Cities and regions are having an increasing role in climatic international negociations. #COP28    just recognized it in its #CHAMP initiative, let's move now with #GlobalStocktake ! Thank you @UCLGAfrica family for the debate this morning 😀 pic.twitter.com/f16OHRHukA

— Vincent Chauvet (@vincentchauvet) December 4, 2023

Photo: Vincent Chauvet / Twitter