Cities of the future, on World Cities Day

I've been fortunate throughout my career to visit, work and live in a great number of countries with outstanding cities. Cities are home to about half of the world’s population, generating 70% of CO2 emissions and we expect both figures to grow with increased urbanisation over time.

There’s certainly appetite to decarbonise cities and many around the world are tackling emissions with a wide range of initiatives. China is investing in smart cities and creating clean energy industrial parks, new cities such as Neom in Saudi Arabia will only use renewable energy and established cities like London are investing heavily in energy efficiency and clean mobility.

At the UN Climate Action Summit last year, 102 cities committed to be net zero by 2050. As part of bp’s own ambition – to be net zero by 2050 or sooner and to help the world get there too – we want to help cities along that journey. Our new strategy outlines our aim to partner with 10-15 cities across the globe over the next decade to help them reach their net zero goals and create the cities of the future. So far this year, we’ve announced partnerships with two cities – Aberdeen in the UK and Houston in the US.

But what will the cities of the future look like? No one can say with 100% certainty – but to mark World Cities Day, I wanted to share 4 key features I think we will see more of, especially if the cities seize the opportunity to build back better, cleaner and greener following the Covid pandemic:

1. Decarbonised transportation: zero-emission buses and trains, integrated with autonomous vehicles and enabled through fast-charging and hydrogen stations. A city which partners with ride-hailing companies to decarbonise fleets and with airlines and airports to produce and supply sustainable aviation fuel from municipal waste.
2. Powered by low carbon energy & gas: renewable energy - like solar, wind and bioenergy - will be bolstered by gas-fired power to ensure energy supply remains reliable. With cleaner industries, capturing carbon emissions through CCUS facilities and storing millions of tonnes of CO2. A hydrogen ready gas infrastructure enabling industrial growth through green and blue hydrogen.
3. Smart buildings: using sensors and artificial intelligence to optimise use and benefit consumers with lower costs – all managed through an easy to use, integrated digital platform.
4. Improved health and quality of life: with less emissions, improved air quality and far richer biodiversity including better management of materials and waste consistent with a circular economy. Natural climate solutions to offset the remaining emissions, making our environment more welcoming.

A fascinating concept? Absolutely. But this is by no means a stretch. In fact, many of these products and services are ones we can provide at bp today. And bringing all these products and services together - whether directly from us, or in partnerships with others - to help deliver the cities of the future is where bp wants to play a key role. I look forward to being a part of this journey.