What's Happening?
A recent study has revealed significant regional disparities in research related to city climate action, with a focus on the North-South divide. The study reviewed 103 articles and found that most research is concentrated in cities in Europe and North America,
accounting for 36% and 34% of studies respectively. In contrast, only 14% of studies focused on Asia, 7% on Latin America and the Caribbean, 7% on Africa, and 3% on Oceania. The study identified 551 instances of factors linked to climate action, with government capacity being the most frequently associated factor. The research also highlighted methodological differences, with qualitative and mixed methods being common across all regions except Oceania, while quantitative-only studies were primarily related to cities in North America and Europe.
Why It's Important?
The findings underscore the need for more balanced research efforts across different regions to effectively address global climate challenges. The concentration of studies in the global North may lead to a skewed understanding of factors influencing city climate action, potentially neglecting unique challenges faced by cities in the global South. This imbalance could hinder the development of tailored interventions necessary for effective climate action in diverse regional contexts. By identifying gaps in research, the study calls for increased focus on underrepresented regions, which could lead to more comprehensive and inclusive climate policies.
What's Next?
The study suggests that future research should aim to close the North-South divide by increasing the number of studies focused on cities in the global South. This could involve fostering collaborations between researchers in different regions and developing interventions tailored to specific regional contexts. Additionally, there is a need for more studies employing quantitative methods in regions where they are currently underutilized, such as Asia and Africa. These steps could help ensure that climate action strategies are informed by a diverse range of perspectives and are more effective in addressing global climate challenges.
