New York Climate Week 2024: A Call to Action

“It’s time to think about the crucial decisions and actions we need to start taking right now to leave COP30 with the world in better shape.” This powerful message set the tone for New York Climate Week 2024, as Climate Group CEO Helen Clarkson emphasised the urgent need for immediate climate action. The week, and her opening address, centred on five key principles: prioritising people, unlocking climate finance, listening to citizens, embracing technology, and confronting the fossil fuel dilemma.

7 Highlights from the Week

1. Coalition for High Ambition Multi-level Partnerships (CHAMP)

A standout initiative was the expansion of CHAMP, where the UK joined the coalition with other national and local governments to bolster climate action. CHAMP is a commitment for greater multilevel cooperation in producing a country's climate plans, to ensure that the next round of national pledges reflect greater ambition and inclusivity. Co-hosted by Bloomberg, the World Resources Institute (WRI), and the COP28 Presidency, this platform provided a hopeful space for effective climate strategies.

Source: C40 Cities

2. Partnership for Health

In a significant move, C40 Cities and the Rockefeller Foundation pledged $1 million to tackle climate-related health challenges. Their collaboration aims to implement heat-health pilot programs in cities vulnerable to extreme weather, highlighting that climate action is also about safeguarding public health.?

Source: Rockefeller Foundation

3. Electrifying Transportation

The week also showcased the future of electric transportation with the event “Charging Ahead: Global Strategies for Bus Electrification.” Successful case studies from Asia, Latin America, and Africa demonstrated how electric bus systems can reduce emissions and enhance urban mobility.

Source: Climate Group

4. Sustainable Materials on the Rise

A report by the Climate Group and Ramboll revealed that nearly 50% of global businesses surveyed are willing to pay a premium for lower-emission steel and concrete. This marks a significant shift toward sustainable construction materials, making green building more accessible than ever.

Source: Ramboll

5. Emissions Tracking and Reporting

In a landmark development, the IEA, IMEO, and EDF introduced a framework for tracking oil and gas emissions, providing a robust guide for companies to report on methane emissions and flaring targets. This initiative is part of the Oil and Gas Decarbonisation Charter initiated at COP28, underscoring the importance of transparency in the energy sector.

Source: Environmental Defense Fund

6. Political Momentum and Local Initiatives

The call for action resonated as C40 mayors, including leaders from London and Freetown, urged the elimination of fossil fuel subsidies. They emphasised redirecting these funds to local climate solutions. Cities like Bogotá are advancing initiatives like Breathe Cities, aiming for a 30% reduction in air pollution by 2030.

Source: C40 Cities

7. Legal and Corporate Developments

In a bold legal step, California Attorney General Rob Bonta, alongside actor Lou Diamond Phillips, announced a lawsuit against ExxonMobil for its alleged role in the global plastics pollution crisis. This move reflects the growing accountability for environmental damage.

On the corporate side, U.S. Steel and Responsible Steel made headlines by producing ResponsibleSteel Certified Steel at their facility in Osceola, Arkansas. This pioneering step sets a new benchmark for decarbonising steel production, encouraging others in the industry to follow suit.

Source: Washington Post & Responsible Steel

Looking Ahead

While New York Climate Week 2024 featured several compelling discussions, many delegates left feeling disheartened, hearing much of the same points raised in previous years, with little progress to show. Though there was plenty of talk, the true impact won’t be clear until COP30 approaches.

That said, New York Climate Week 2024 could still mark a turning point for climate action. With a strong emphasis on collaboration, sustainable practices, and innovative solutions, the event laid a solid foundation for tangible progress. The collective commitment from various sectors signals that every effort, no matter how small, is vital for the future of our planet.

At TripShift, we’re here to support every step of that journey, no matter how small! Together, we can create a more sustainable future. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue this fight together!