The complexity of human relationships and societies finds its fullest expression in large cities. As we evolve towards more sophisticated civilizations, the role of local governments becomes increasingly important in shaping human and social relations in conjunction with the natural and built environments of urban centers, where more than half of the world's population is now concentrated.

It is in this context that ICLEI undertakes its activities with local governments and other relevant actors concerned with the survival of our societies. It is also with this vision, in search of a different development model, that ICLEI has guided its work to strengthen, empower, and enable local governments in decision-making processes that affect the entire planet. “Act locally and think globally,” 20 years later, remains a fundamental guiding concept of our activities, and today, local authorities find recognition of their importance in international negotiation forums.

This allows for a better understanding of the relationship between climate change, construction, public policies, and local governments, the subject of the research and mobilization work that generated this manual.