World leaders urged to discover the 'Glasgow Effect' at the Cop26 climate summit
Susan Aitken urges delegates to go out and meet Glaswegians
Last updated 31st Oct 2021
Glasgow City Council leader Susan Aitken is urging the officials from around the world trying to reach agreement on tacking climate change at the Cop26 conference to take inspiration from the host city, and its people.
Speaking at the opening session of the summit which has taken over the SEC for the next two weeks she said: “This is a city that has been through tough times. But we have survived and thrived against the odds through resilience, innovation, imagination, sense of community, humour and grit.
“These are all qualities you will need in abundance in the days ahead.
“If you feel your determination flagging, take a look outside, talk to a Glaswegian, and let the spirit that infuses this city infuse you too.
“And if as you spend time here, you find yourself feeling a bit bolder and with a wee bit more swagger than usual - well, that’s just the Glasgow effect.
“Glasgow couldn’t be prouder of being part of this pivotal moment for the planet we all share.
“Like the rest of the world we’ll be watching - and judging.
"Our demands and expectations of you will be high. But we’ll also be cheering you on and wishing you all the heart and courage you need for the task ahead
“Take inspiration too from Glasgow’s climate ambition. If this post-industrial city, still living with the legacies of our high carbon emissions past, can have a plan for Net Zero by 2030, then there should be no limit on your ambition either.
"Let the example of pioneer cities like ours light your way to the actions you must agree here to safeguard our climate and ecology for future generations."
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