The multidimensionality of urban climate governance: A critical review

Over the past two decades, cities have emerged as central players in global climate governance. To truly grasp the intricacies of urban climate governance, one must acknowledge the dynamic interplay among governing bodies in both upward and downward, as well as inward and outward directions. This review article delves into the multifaceted nature of urban climate governance. Beyond the frequently discussed vertical and horizontal dimensions in multilevel governance literature, this review highlights the distinct dimension of contextuality within urban climate action, drawing upon the rapidly expanding literature on the spatiality of urban sustainability transitions and urban material politics. Through a critical analysis of the limitations inherent in each dimension, this review concludes by proposing pathways toward effectively orchestrating the verticality, horizontality, and contextuality of urban climate governance. This multidimensional analytical framework provides a more holistic and dialectical understanding of how global climate goals are translated, negotiated, and materialized within specific urban contexts, offering a theoretical foundation for orchestrating different governance dimensions to enhance effectiveness.