The SDG Pulse: January 2025
Five Climate Change Stories Forecasting 2025 Trends
Coming out of the world's hottest year yet at 1.6 C 🥵 and with a new vocally anti-climate US administration in place, here are some climate events, trends, and challenges to watch out for in 2025. While the "doom loop" of climate change and food insecurity loom large, it's comforting to know that the "historic megatrend" of the global transition to clean energy cannot be derailed and may even be emboldened as the legal obligations of countries to fight climate change are clarified by the World Court.
COP Reform Call to Action from Club of Rome
On the eve of COP29 in Baku, some of the greatest minds in climate science and policy offered their insights on how the COP system needs an urgent overhaul that moves it away from continued negotiation and towards urgent implementation at a scale commensurate with the defining challenge of our time. Signatories to this open letter proposed seven key reforms, intended to prioritize solutions activation while ensuring that those most affected by climate change have a seat at the table in shaping the just transition away from fossil fuel dependency.
A Place-based Approach as a Solution to a Divided Nation
While the divisiveness of the current political climate will likely impede unity and progress at the national level, place-based and hyperlocal solutions to the challenges of our time are gaining significant traction as a space where real positive change can still take root. As The Peace Department becomes increasingly more deliberate in supporting place- and community-driven transition towards a greener and more resilient world, it's emboldening to see other stakeholders taking notice. Shifting focus towards hyperlocal solutions can not only move the needle for structurally excluded communities most impacted by inequity and climate change, but also give rise to replicable models to catalyze a multiplier effect nationally and even globally.
Montana Supreme Court Sides with Youth in Landmark Climate Case
Some much-needed good news in the field of environmental activism, demonstrating the power of young people to protect our planet and our human rights! Last month, the Montana Supreme Court sided with 16 Montanans between the ages of 7 and 23, determining that a law banning the consideration of climate when choosing energy policy was unconstitutional. In a 6-1 ruling, the top court found that the youth plaintiffs had a fundamental and constitutional right to a clean and healthful environment. Don't we all...
Women on the Frontlines: Climate Change’s Untold Gender Story
From the high mountains of Bhutan to the grasslands of Kenya and the flood-prone regions of Nigeria, discover how climate change uniquely impacts women's lives. Through compelling stories of resilience, innovation, and adaptation, three female journalists reveal how women are navigating environmental challenges while breaking cultural barriers. Meet Pem Zam, a cordyceps collector battling harsh weather in Bhutan 🍄, Hadiza Modu, a Nigerian mother of six facing devastating floods 💧, and the inspiring Maasai women's group transforming traditional roles through climate-smart agriculture. 👩🌾
Bridging the Climate Finance Gap with Green Guarantees💰
Mobilizing private capital is crucial for achieving climate goals, but significant barriers exist. "Green guarantees" can incentivize private investment in climate projects by mitigating risks for investors. Discover key recommendations for enhancing the effectiveness of these instruments, including streamlining processes, expanding technical assistance, and fostering collaboration among stakeholders.
