Implementing just and inclusive climate action on the local level

As the global climate agenda shifts from target-setting to implementation, the role of local governments becomes increasingly important. Cities and municipalities are on the front lines of climate action, where policies are implemented with local communities, and where success depends on their participation and support. However, without consideration of the local context and potential impact on disadvantaged groups, programs risk rewarding high-consumption behaviors, thus spending funds ineffectively, unintentionally exacerbating inequalities, and fueling political backlash.

To reduce emissions and implement national climate targets, municipal climate programs often need to focus on households with higher carbon footprints. While this approach can lead to meaningful emissions reductions, it can also unintentionally leave out low-income and disadvantaged communities, who already face structural barriers to participation, limiting their access to the benefits of climate initiatives.

When climate policies are not inclusive, they can be seen as a privilege rather than a shared priority. This perception can fuel public disengagement, resistance, and polarization, thus undermining political continuity and support. It also means missing key opportunities to deliver co-benefits such as reduced costs and improved living conditions for those who could benefit the most.

The session seeks to advance a shared understanding of local governments’ critical role in implementing just and inclusive climate action, and to identify the framework conditions at national and international levels that are required to support this work. To this end, it will highlight the enabling role local governments can play in ensuring climate action is anchored in community needs, and explore the structural barriers preventing increased integration of climate and equity goals.