Together with the Environment Minister of Lower Saxony Stefan Wenzel, Federal Environment Minister Barbara Hendricks presented the Hanover Declaration "Local Governments Driving Transformation". The declaration is the result of the International Conference on Climate Action (ICCA2015), which was held from 1-2 October 2015 at Herrenhausen Castle in Hanover, Germany. In her speech before international guests, Minister Hendricks drew a line from the most recent UN Sustainable Development Summit in New York City and the upcoming COP21 climate negotiations in Paris to the envisaged United Nations Conference on Housing and Sustainable Urban Development (Habitat III) in October 2016. Henri Djombo, Minister for Sustainable Development, Forestry Economy and the Environment of the Republic of Congo spoke about regional climate measures taken by the G77 and highlighted the challenges African countries are facing.
Lifestyles also play an important role in local climate action. The conference encouraged a transition towards lifestyles that respect the Earth's planetary boundaries.
Federal Environment Minister Hendricks said: "The transition must begin where people live and work. ICCA 2015 has shown that municipalities and local players are ready to tackle climate change. That gives us momentum for a positive outcome in Paris."
Minister of Lower Saxony Stefan Wenzel commented: "ICCA 2015 has successfully brought the market of opportunities, public dialogue and political debate together in the fight against climate change. Municipalities are calling for a clear framework and long-term planning security with the Hanover Declaration so as to combat climate change successfully."
The Hanover Declaration: Local Governments Driving Transformation emphasises the key role played by municipalities in climate action. The declaration highlights the most important success factors in the fields of governance, finance, infrastructure, adaptation to the impacts of climate change, urban development and local ecosystems. Particular focus is placed on networking, education and practical examples as well as social participation, involvement of local businesses and robust financial framework conditions.