In recent years, there has been a growing recognition that in order to optimally deal with climatic challenges, local authorities must cooperate not only at the local level, but also at the global level. To this end, initiatives of international networks such as C40 and ICLEI have emerged that allow cities to be part of a global movement that promotes a greener environment in cities. The companies in these networks gain access to resources, knowledge and collaborative opportunities. Through them they innovate, influence and implement sustainability strategies more effectively.

For the cause of creating and establishing an ecosystem of environmental innovation, the membership of global initiatives can help in the following aspects:

1. Knowledge sharing and joint actions: These platforms provide an opportunity for cities to share best practices, innovations and lessons learned elsewhere in the environmental field. Additionally, through meetings, workshops and webinars, they can collaborate on different projects and share insights on what worked and what didn't.
    
2. Access to resources and expertise: Belonging to these networks often provides access to resources such as technical expertise, research, tools and funding opportunities (including international funding agencies) that may not be available through other channels. These resources allow the local authorities to initiate more ambitious projects on a large scale. Also, with the help of knowledge and expertise, it is possible to build training programs, workshops and consultations between experts, thereby developing abilities among the authority's officials, how to plan and implement effective environmental programs in the authority.
    
3. Guidelines and policy support: Initiatives such as C40 and ICLEI have frameworks and guidelines that help local authorities align their policies with global sustainability goals, such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) or the Paris Agreement. They provide necessary tools for the development and implementation of policies suitable for local contexts, and ensure that the efforts will have both a local and global impact. Authorities that join these initiatives often also agree to certain commitments and standards, while building regular monitoring and reporting mechanisms ensures that these commitments are met, leading to a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
    
4. Building partnerships: These networks can foster partnerships between cities, academia, the private sector and other stakeholders, leading to more integrated and effective solutions. In addition, they enable the sharing of advanced technologies and innovative solutions between cities. This sharing helps local authorities implement new technologies and solutions that may have been tested and proven effective elsewhere, adapting them to their unique local conditions, culture and challenges.
    
5. Motivation and recognition: participation in a global network can motivate local authorities by providing them with a platform to showcase their achievements. Recognition and awards through these networks can encourage efforts and increase motivation among local teams.

International networking through initiatives such as C40 and ICLEI serves as a powerful tool for local authorities to foster an ecosystem of environmental innovation. By collaborating and leveraging the collective knowledge, technology and resources of these networks, cities can significantly advance their sustainability agendas and contribute to global efforts in combating environmental challenges.

International initiatives open to cities

C40 Cities: Involves cities from all over the world in their mission to address climate change through collaborations, alongside supporting cities in the development and implementation of sustainable policies.

ICLEI - Local Governments for Sustainability: open to cities worldwide, and promotes sustainable urban development. Municipalities can communicate with ICLEI to improve local biodiversity, coping with climate change and community resilience.

Smart Cities Council: A network providing access to smart technologies and methods to create more sustainable urban environments, energy efficiency and waste reduction.

100 Resilient Cities: a network focused on strengthening urban resilience. The initiative provides tools, funding and expertise to build resilience strategies.

Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate & Energy: a global alliance of mayors for climate and energy that promotes a voluntary war on climate change and reducing emissions

EU Urban Agenda: Although aimed primarily at European Union cities, Municipalities can participate in this initiative to learn and contribute to the promotion of sustainability and environmental innovation in urban areas.

UN Global Compact - Cities Program: As part of the UN Global Compact, the Cities Program provides a framework that allows cities, including those in Israel, to share experiences and implement innovative strategies to deal with climate and environmental challenges.

Mediterranean Climate Change Adaptation Awards: Mediterranean cities can take part in this initiative, which rewards cities for noteworthy action in adapting to climate change, and expose them to methods of sharing and learning from cities around the Mediterranean basin.

World Wildlife Fund's (WWF) One Planet City Challenge: a global competition inviting cities to report on ambitious and innovative actions and plans towards compliance with the Paris Agreement. The platform provides an opportunity to expose solutions, receive and inspire other cities regarding actions related to improving the climate situation.

The Sustainable Urban Mobility Network: The SUM network allows cities to collaborate on projects that promote environmentally friendly urban mobility solutions.

EcoMobility Alliance: An initiative that encourages cities to prioritize walking, cycling and public transport to reduce air pollution and improve the urban environment.

Global Green Growth Institute: The Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI) is a network of cities designed to develop and implement green growth strategies, including sustainable urban planning and development.