Local Leaders
Cities, states and regions are on the front lines of the climate crisis, exposed to increasing extremes such as heatwaves, flooding, storms and droughts. The Local Leaders series features mayors, governors and other local leaders who are championing impactful initiatives that make their communities more resilient and sustainable. The series is curated in collaboration with the global network of mayors, the for climate and energy, , and the Climate Group¡¯s of subnational governments.
Local leaders are vital for global solutions."
ANT?NIO GUTERRES, United Nations Secretary-General ()
Maharashtra: The power of grassroot mobilization
Minister Pankaja Munde explains the impacts of climate change on the Indian state of Maharashtra and the vital role that communities play in advancing climate action.
California: You don¡¯t have to choose between a strong economy and bold climate leadership
Governor Gavin Newsom explains how California ¡ª the world¡¯s fifth largest economy ¡ª is cutting carbon pollution and rapidly deploying clean energy, and how these investments are improving air quality, creating jobs, and driving billions into the communities that need it most.
Gyeonggi: Climate insurance as a safety net for all residents
Governor Kim Dong-yeon talks about the floods and heatwaves affecting Gyeonggi Province, Republic of Korea, and outlines the insurance policy covering all residents from climate-related health impacts.
Phoenix: Shading residents against the heat
Mayor Kate Gallego explains how the desert city of Phoenix in Arizona, U.S., is adapting to climate change and the rising temperatures by increasing trees and shade structures.
Andalusia: Helping municipalities cope with the changing climate
President Juan Manuel Moreno Bonilla explains the dire impact climate change is having on the autonomous region of Andalusia, Spain, and the actions taken at the regional level to support municipalities and communities to cope with the changing climate.
Cleveland: Building ¡®brightfields¡¯ of solar power
Mayor Justin M. Bibb shares how Cleveland is turning landfills and brownfields into ¡®brightfields¡¯ that generate clean energy from the sun.
Guelmim-Oued Noun: Water at the core of the climate challenge
President Mbarka Bouaida shares insights on how climate change is affecting Morocco¡¯s southern territories and the integrated water resilience strategy her region is leading in partnership with international institutions.
Baden-W¨¹rttemberg: Reaching climate neutrality by 2040
Minister-President Winfried Kretschmann outlines his goal of cutting greenhouse gas emissions in Baden-W¨¹rttemberg, Germany, through steps such as expanding solar energy and promoting environmentally friendly transport.
Quebec: Leading the way with almost 100 per cent renewable energy
Premier Fran?ois Legault explains how flooding and wildfires are affecting Quebec and the province¡¯s commitment to renewable energy, energy efficiency in buildings and the electrification of transport, among others.
Atlanta: Building up climate resilience
Mayor Andre Dickens details the city¡¯s plans to tackle the challenges of climate change in an equitable manner that protects nature, strengthens critical infrastructure and supports upward economic mobility.
Illinois: Expanding clean energy and local jobs
Governor Pritzker highlights the state¡¯s efforts to transition to clean energy and expand economic opportunities for communities by attracting more clean energy jobs and offering trainings and apprenticeships in every corner of the state.