Guadalajara (Mexico), Renca (Chile), and Vitacura (Chile) join the GCoM’s Mayors Forum
The Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate and Energy (GCoM), a project funded by the European Union, is pleased to announce the addition of Camila Merino Catalán (Vitacura, Chile), Claudio Castro Salas (Renca, Chile), and Verónica Delgadillo García (Guadalajara, Mexico). These three cities have been recognized for their active commitment to local climate action and their leadership in sustainable policies, and will now be part of this strategic governance space in Latin America.
The Forum brings together local government leaders from signatory cities in the region, with the goal of amplifying their voice on global climate priorities, strengthening Latin American representation at the global level, and showcasing tangible progress toward a just and resilient transition. With these new additions, the Forum now includes 13 representatives from eight countries, further solidifying its role as a regional spokesperson in the international community.
“Every new city joining the Mayors’ Forum of the GCoM is a reason for great joy and a sign that these new alliances are strengthening the climate agenda and building communities that are more engaged with this cause. New cities mean more good ideas and sustainable practices that spread across the world,” said Hélinah Cardoso, Regional Director of the Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate and Energy in the Americas.
In 2025, Vitacura (Chile), Renca (Chile), and Guadalajara (Mexico) join existing Forum members: Despeñaderos (Argentina), San Justo (Argentina), Belén (Costa Rica), Oreamuno (Costa Rica), La Estrella (Colombia), Ambato (Ecuador), Manta (Ecuador), Coronel Portillo (Peru), Serra Talhada (Brazil), and Salvador (Brazil).
Vitacura: a model of environmental commitment
The city has gained international recognition for its environmental sustainability approach, standing out through initiatives such as a comprehensive green infrastructure plan, organic waste recycling programs, environmental education in schools, and promotion of a sustainable local market. These actions not only generate positive environmental impacts but also strengthen the social fabric and foster civic awareness from an early age. “In Vitacura, we believe in the transformative role of cities, especially those that embrace sustainability as a core development pillar. We’re excited to learn from other members of the Covenant, and at the same time, we hope our experiences in Vitacura can inspire other cities in Latin America and around the world.”, said Catalán.
Renca: green and clean
Known for its sustainable development agenda, Renca implements a series of environmental actions in its daily operations. In addition to reforesting green areas with native vegetation to preserve local species, the municipality also invests in selective waste collection through specialized stations for each type of solid waste, reinforced by inspections to ensure proper household waste disposal. “This announcement connects us with international collaboration networks and advances concrete policies for the energy transition, water efficiency, and climate resilience. A key example is our project to transform the Metropolitan Park Cerros de Renca into a green lung for our municipality and the region, through innovative wastewater management,” said Castro.
Guadalajara: climate leadership in action
Guadalajara continues to move forward as a city committed to the environment, implementing its first Low Emissions Zone in the historic center to improve air quality, road safety, and reduce pollutant emissions. The city also promotes tree planting in public spaces, increasing green areas per capita, and ensures proper waste management through collection and treatment efforts. These actions reflect a holistic approach toward a healthier, more accessible, and climate-resilient city. “Our commitment to climate, the environment, and energy is part of how we care for our city and our people. We are at the forefront of this issue, with actions designed to ensure everyone’s well-being, always with a focus on sustainability,” emphasized Delgadillo.
About the Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate and Energy (GCoM)
GCoM supports cities and local governments by mobilizing and backing ambitious, measurable, and planned climate and energy actions in their communities, in collaboration with city/regional networks, national governments, and other partners to achieve its vision. It’s currently led by the UN Special Envoy for Climate Ambition and Solutions, Michael R. Bloomberg, and the European Commission’s Executive Vice President, Teresa Ribera. The coalition includes cities across six continents and in 147 countries, representing over one billion people — more than 13% of the world’s population.
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