Sunday September 28
The largest Climate Week NYC 2025 to date has come to a close!
Over the past week, New York City was alive with climate leadership – sparking new ideas, bold commitments, and powerful collaborations.
From renewable energy breakthroughs to inspiring youth engagement, the week showed that climate action works best when we act together.
Catch up on all the action:
🎥 Exclusive interviews with changemakers
The Independent Climate 100 List 2025
We’re proud to share that our CEO, Helen Clarkson, OBE, was included last week in The Independent Climate 100 List, in recognition of her advocacy for systemic change, pushing for ambitious climate policies, and fostering collaboration between businesses and governments.
The Independent Climate 100 List is an annual publication coinciding with key events like Climate Week NYC, highlighting 100 individuals and organizations worldwide who are making significant positive impacts on tackling the climate crisis.
Read more
Helen Clarkson, CEO, Climate Group
Saturday, September 27
With just one day left of Climate Week NYC, this year’s conversations have underscored a common thread: urgency matched with solutions. From resilience and leadership to culture and community, the week has showcased the many ways we can accelerate the clean energy transition.
The week isn't over – let’s Power On.
Adry del Rocio’s mural "Breathe" featured on a Climate Action Murals walking tour in New York City
During the Climate Week NYC Daily Show, produced in partnership with Hi-Impact and Newsweek, former White House Climate Adviser Gina McCarthy discussed why the U.S. will remain a force in international climate talks.
McCarthy highlighted that America’s clean energy transition is “inevitable,” driven by local demand, governors, mayors, and community leaders. She emphasized that the U.S. will have a strong presence at COP30 in Brazil, showcasing climate and nature-based solutions that build resilience.
Former White House Climate Adviser Gina McCarthy speaking on the the Climate Week NYC Daily Show, in partnership with Hi-Impact and Newsweek
When environmental stewardship becomes a cultural value, climate-positive behaviours naturally follow.
In the latest episode of 50 Shades of Green: Communicating climate change: how can culture drive action?, hosted by Adam Lake, Head of North American Communications at Climate Group, and recorded live at Climate Week NYC, voices from sport, music, media, television, and food share how they’re driving a more sustainable future.
Live from Climate Week NYC: Communicating climate change – how can culture drive action?
Freshfields convened investors and energy leaders to track how capital is moving amid policy shifts and market turbulence. The message: clean energy momentum remains strong. Funds aren’t reliant on subsidies, and capital inflows are growing, with opportunities beyond the U.S.
Federal policy may slow renewables, but state markets and consumer demand are keeping growth steady. Wind and solar remain the cheapest power sources, while rising AI energy demand challenges utilities — and sparks innovation in storage, software, and next-gen infrastructure.
Freshfields: Investment Amid Uncertainty – Live from the World Trade Center
Friday, September 26
Our Head of Communications in North America, Adam Lake, details the most recent events and news from today in New York City.
Adam Lake, Head of Communications in North America, shares an update on Climate Week NYC
Alongside Amalgamated Bank and the Federation of American Scientists – at an evening reception celebrating climate capital - our Executive Director for North America, Angela Barranco, spoke about the power of Climate Week NYC to drive action, forge new coalitions, and energize the transition ahead. They reflected on the inspiring momentum of the week, the importance of connecting with like-minded changemakers, and the progress made across solutions, frameworks, and transition plans. The atmosphere was charged with optimism and ambition, as new ideas took root and fresh partnerships began to form.
Our team was at The Nest Climate Campus, taking in the action and engaging with ongoing workshops and panels on solutions shaping the climate future.
Kisandka Moses, Senior Content Producer, Climate Group sharing insights during an interview at The Nest Climate Campus
In downtown Manhattan, leaders from more than two dozen organizations gathered for a workshop to identify barriers and opportunities to drive narrative cohesion and accelerate the climate transition.
Workshop participants
Women-led NGO Project Dandelion brought together women leaders from across sectors to share how they’re driving solutions for the planet.
Project Dandelion event
Thursday, September 25
Our International Events Director, Mandy Simmons takes us through some of today's top highlights, on the ground from New York City.
Mandy Simmons, International Director of Events, Climate Group wraps up all the action in New York City
Climate Philanthropy Catalyst Coalition presented the Climate and Health PhilanthroPitch, a fast-paced showcase of nonprofit-led solutions at the intersection of environmental and human health.
Five standout organizations pitched to philanthropists, funders, and partners, followed by a networking reception to connect, learn, and invest in scalable, real-world solutions.
Organizations pitching to a live audience
Chair of Climate Group's North American Board, Governor Bill Ritter Jr., joined "The Daily Report" to discuss the urgent need for bipartisan and local action on climate change. Despite political challenges, Ritter emphasizes that progress must continue – now more than ever.
🔗 Watch the full interview.
Bill Ritter, Chair of Climate Group's North American Board, joins "The Daily Report"
Events are continuing across the city for Climate Week NYC, with students showcasing creative climate projects and taking action on the climate crisis. Led by NY Sun Works, the program reaches 370 schools and trains 1,500 teachers, empowering the next generation of climate leaders.
Students showcasing their climate projects in an NY Sun Works led event
At “Where Sustainability Meets Storytelling”, Mars, L’Oréal, and Antenna Group shared how sustainability and communications teams can collaborate to turn climate commitments into impactful stories. The panel stressed that while data and KPIs are vital, audiences connect most with the “why”– how sustainability drives business, profitability, and action. Communication should be intentional, not performative—and sometimes, silence speaks louder.
Helen Clarkson, CEO, Climate Group speaking at the UN Headquarters in New York City
Wednesday, September 24
Momentum is building at Climate Week NYC. At the UN, leaders declared that “science demands action,” as Vanuatu pushed to curb fossil fuel lobby power and China announced 2035 targets to cut 1.4B tonnes of emissions.
Innovation took center stage – our CEO Helen Clarkson spoke on climate and food systems at One World Trade, while Palmetto launched an app helping homeowners save money and accelerate clean energy.
Across New York, hundreds of events inspired action, captured in the latest Climate Week NYC Daily Show with voices like Ralph Regenvanu, Mary Robinson, and María Fernanda Espinosa.
🎥 Catch all the highlights from Climate Group's Isabel Flynn.
United Nations Consultant and Environmental Justice expert Saad Amer hosted Local Heat and Federal Fire – a powerful gathering of climate leaders, lawmakers, organizers, and changemakers.
Congresswoman Melanie A. Stansbury asked us to imagine “a world we can leave behind for our children and grandchildren.”
Actor and activist Mark Ruffalo challenged the room: how do we spark large-scale excitement for grassroots movements so communities show up en masse? His answer: “There’s always a gift in difficult times.”
Align, a partner of The Solutions Project, highlighted their Green Healthy Schools campaign, which is projected to create 321,000 jobs in NYC within five years through sustainable school investments.
Actor and activist, Mark Ruffalo and United Nations Consultant and Environmental Justice expert, Saad Amer
At The New York Times’s annual Climate Forward, Governor Gavin Newsom delivered an empowering, unequivocal call to action, highlighting the critical role of subnational leaders in shaping the U.S. climate future.
Gavin Newsom, Governor of California on stage at The New York Times’s annual Climate Forward
Helen Clarkson, CEO, Climate Group, spoke at One World Trade Center on climate change and food systems, hosted by Newsweek and moderated by Jeff Young.
From the 72nd floor, panellists across the value chain discussed collaborating with farmers on regenerative agriculture and the need for clear policy signals to drive system-level shifts in demand and supply.
Helen Clarkson, CEO, Climate Group speaking at One World Trade Center
At the CMO Blueprint Action Lab, hosted by Kantar and United Nations Global Comact, the inaugural Benchmark Survey was revealed, highlighting critical gaps across growth, brand, innovation, communications, and partnerships. Case studies demonstrated why sustainable growth remains elusive and why value must take center stage.
While sustainable communications are advancing, innovation still struggles to drive scalable behavior change. Embedding sustainability into every business as a growth driver, not a cost, is now essential.
Emma Wilson, Head of Marketing, Climate Group, at the CMO Blueprint Action Lab
At the Times Center in New York City during Climate Week NYC, Rainn Wilson, environmentalist and star of The Office, delivered a powerful spoken performance accompanied by a matching animated video.
He shared his personal experience losing his home in the LA fires, turning tragedy into urgency. Wilson also recounted meeting King Charles this summer to discuss climate action, highlighting the global dimensions of the crisis.
The performance combined storytelling and visuals, leaving the audience both moved and motivated to act on climate solutions.
Rainn Wilson, environmentalist and a star of “The Office,” at the Times Center in New York City during Climate Week NYC
Tuesday, September 23
Day two of The Hub Live comes to an impactful and powerful close. From Shepard Fairey’s “Power On” artwork, to Jane Fonda announcing the inaugural American Abundance and Innovation program, the momentum for climate action was front and center.
We celebrated the RE100 Leadership Awards, honouring companies leading the way on renewable electricity, while NYC lit up green for Climate Week. Powerful voices, including Premier David Eby, inspired us to keep pushing forward.
🗽The action continues across the city all week – keep checking back for the biggest moments from this year’s event in New York City.
New York City lit up green for Climate Week NYC
5.45pm
Maeve Campbell, Climate Journalist, takes us through all the biggest moments from day two at The Hub Live in this wrap up video.
"The energy here has been electric. [...] Leaders from business, government and civil society, have exchanged bold ideas, sparked new connections, and accelerated collective impact."
Maeve Campbell, Climate Journalist, shares highlights from the day
5.30pm
The Executive Series at Climate Week NYC took place once again this year - a series of closed-door, high-level roundtables designed to foster strategic dialogue among leaders from business, government, and civil society.
Hosted by Climate Group and partners including PwC, UNICEF, The Estée Lauder Companies, Hydro-Québec Energy Services, PEEB, and GlobalABC the sessions tackled urgent climate challenges through cross-sector collaboration, focusing on systemic change, innovation, and inclusive leadership to accelerate global climate action.
5.25pm
John McCalla-Leacy, Head of Global ESG, KPMG spoke to the importance of innovation in limiting global warming:
"We need to lean into [innovation] and drive new solutions. I think that friendly competition towards that goal is something that is really going to spur us on and I already see lots of incredible applications of AI [...] such as to optimize the energy you use and integrate grids."
John McCalla-Leacy, Head of Global ESG, KPMG shares thoughts on stage
5.22pm
In the session “Communicating Climate Change – How Can Culture Drive Action?” Adam Gardner, Co-Founder and Co-Executive Director of REVERB, highlighted the power of music and culture to inspire climate solutions.
“It's been over 300 plus tours now, and 700 concerts. We've shown that battery power is ready for the main stage,” he said, showing how sustainable practices can take center stage in live events.
The session underscored how culture can engage communities, amplify action, and make climate solutions resonate on a global scale.
Adam Gardner, Co-Founder and Co-Executive Director, REVERB
5.00pm
In a session on building a regenerative world, Meghan Ryan, Director of Natural Climate Solutions Strategy at the National Audubon Society, stressed the importance of a climate-resilient ecosystem that benefits both communities and nature.
Highlighting agriculture, environmental markets, and supportive policies as levers for change, she said: "It’s about building a climate-resilient ecosystem that supports economies and communities."
Meghan Ryan, Director, Natural Climate Solutions Strategy, National Audubon Society speaking in a panel
4.42pm
Noémie Bauer, Chief Sustainability Officer, Pernod, shared how the company is driving impact through its global sustainability strategy.
“In six years, we managed to meet our target of sourcing all our electricity from renewables, and it just showed that corporates can really move the needle,” Bauer said.
Since joining RE100, Pernod Ricard has focused on holistic action – from becoming more energy-independent in a Caribbean country and injecting clean energy into the national grid, to advancing carbon reductions through their CSR roadmap. The company continues to tackle scope 3 emissions, energy efficiency, and renewable sourcing to further mitigate its impact.
Noémie Bauer, Chief Sustainability Officer, Pernod Ricard on stage at the RE100 Members Forum and Awards
3.46pm
“We are facing a scenario where we cannot generate enough energy to support this exponential rise in demand from AI when we don’t know how fast it will go,” said Mark McKenna, Global Sustainability Director, Arcadis, in a session on tackling the energy trilemma – security, affordability, and sustainability.
He highlighted the pressure this demand places on infrastructure owners and the misconception that the energy transition is simple. While everyone wants clean, affordable energy, no one wants the lights to go off, and the cost of capital remains a key barrier to deployment.
Mark McKenna, Global Sustainability Director, Arcadis shares thoughts on stage
3.44pm
From prototype to powerhouse – scaling cleantech beyond the lab, Bob Mitchell, CEO, Global Electronics Council highlighted the energy trilemma of security, affordability, and sustainability.
“Data centres are hungry – hungry for land, energy, resources,” he said. “This is the opportunity to address ethical standards and resource use before the true tipping point.”
Bob Mitchell, CEO, Global Electronics Council speaking at a session on scaling cleantech
3.40pm
Net Zero by 2050: Are We Placing the Right Bets Now for a Profitable and Carbon-Free Future?
That’s the question Morten Wierod, President and CEO, ABB explored today in a session on innovation, investment, and climate action. He emphasized the central role of technology in driving meaningful change:
“I’m a technology optimist,” Wierod said. “Tech has to be at the center of the solutions we talk about. There is no other way – we need to use tech to make a difference.”
Through a fireside chat and expert panel, the discussion challenged industries to consider whether today’s choices will lead to a profitable, carbon-free future by 2050.
Morten Wierod, President and CEO, ABB participates in a panel
3.20pm
We're exploring how our language can change to drive more change. Dr. Katharine Hayhoe, Chief Scientist, The Nature Conservatory, had this powerful message for the audience:
"We’re only as doomed as we believe ourselves to be. We must practice hope. Every day."
Dr. Katharine Hayhoe, Chief Scientist, The Nature Conservatory
2.50pm
Lars Aagaard, Minister for Climate, Energy and Utilities, Denmark, shared positive experiences from his country with the audience.
"We can only win the climate battle if are able to produce a positive narrative for our citizens. We have to convince them that if we go green, we'll have a better future, better services, better living conditions."
But how can governments succeed? "You need to use all the tools in the political toolbox. You must show respect when working with the private sector. You must set your targets, and stay with your targets. You must stick with your policies.
"And allow the private sector to do what it does best: innovate."
Lars Aagaard, Minister for Climate, Energy and Utilities, Denmark speaks on stage
2.22pm
"We're showing that EV tech is here to stay and we can implement it in an amazing way," said Fredrika Klarén, Head of Sustainability, Polestar, at a session focused on the change tech can deliver.
"We’re leaning into the strength that we have in the consumers wanting to change. People want solutions to take climate action in their everyday lives."
But she stressed that for the EV transition to succeed, "policymakers need to hold the line."
Fredrika Klarén, Head of Sustainability, Polestar participates in a panel
2.10pm
How can we hold the world’s biggest polluters to account? We're taking the question head on, with a inspiring panel, at our afternoon flagship session.
The climate justice activist Wawa Gatheru, Founder and Executive Director, Black Girl Environmentalist, stressed just how important it'll be to fund youth-led approaches to climate justice. Dr. Beverly L. Wright agreed, Founder and ED, Deep South Center, couldn't agree more: "We have to mobilize young people around the globe. And we have to have a completely different conversation with young people.
"We need to completely change the narrative if we're going to survive."
12.34pm
In a Built Environment and Industry session exploring how and where philanthropy is stepping in on climate, Jonathan Pershing, Program Director, Hewlett Foundation shared a powerful reminder:
"What do you need to do today? You have to have transitions on the ground, start making investments. If it’s not starting today, it won’t be installed for a decade. If not starting today, won’t be ready when needed."
12.20pm
Sam Hersh, North America E-Mobility Solution Lead, Arcadis shares thoughts on the future of the transition:
"It’s going to be more important than ever for utilities to know they hold the keys. [...] What it really comes to down to at this stage of the game is utilities working together with fleet companies."
Sam Hersh, North America E-Mobility Solution Lead, Arcadis participates in a panel
12.03pm
At the panel on scaling energy solutions, Al Subbloie, CEO of Budderfly, emphasized the urgent need to reduce waste and innovate as energy rates rise.
“We have grown to 250 million dollars… we created a new model and it’s working as a proof point.”
"We can pull 30% of waste out of the existing usage space, we have the tech to get it done, why do we not do it?”
The takeaway: scaling what works is not just an opportunity – it’s essential.
Al Subbloie, CEO, Budderfly speaking in a panel
11.55am
In a Leadership and Green Growth session exploring how to scale the grid for EV adoption, Carla J. Peterman, Executive Vice President and Chief Sustainability Officer, Pacific Gas and Electric Company shared a reminder:
"Before anyone can participate in grid services, you need people to buy vehicles. It’s important to have the right customer experience. We all need to be all-in on getting the vehicles purchased in the first place."
Carla J. Peterman, Executive Vice President and Chief Sustainability Officer, Pacific Gas and Electric Company speaking in a session on scaling EV adoption
11.35am
Mete Coban MBE, Deputy Mayor of London for Environment and Energy, Greater London Authority, shares thoughts on the role of cities in a session on driving the global EV transition:
"This is a massive social justice issue. Cities have to be at the forefront of that because they know people much better. [...]
We talk about climate from a place of doom and gloom, it feels burdensome to people. But actually, it’s about wanting to live in a healthy city. No one wants to drink dirty water, why do we normalize breathing dirty air?"
Mete Coban MBE, Deputy Mayor of London for Environment and Energy, Greater London Authority
11.27am
In a powerful conversation with Rob Bonta, California Attorney General, California Department of Justice, Jane Fonda spoke about the role of civic action, legal leadership, and mobilisation – and how leaders can protect both democracy and our climate.
When asked why climate, she shared: “This is now, this is present, if you care about having a future for your children, you have to act.”
She reminded the audience that real change is within reach: “All of us can make a real difference, [by] paying attention to who we are electing.”
And on what it will take to meet this moment together, Fonda was resolute: "We have to really be brave[…] and we have to stay together.”
Jane Fonda, Actor and Activist, JanePAC and Rob Bonta, California Attorney General, California Department of Justice in conversation
11.21am
In his speech, Samed Agirbas, President, Zero Waste Foundation, underscored the economic and health benefits of waste prevention.
"Zero waste strategy protects both people and economics," he said, urging leaders to turn zero waste strategy into daily practice. He noted that every dollar invested in prevention and circular systems, yields approximately $7 in health and environmental benefit.
Agirbas called for leadership and commitment from business leaders and policy makers to integrate zero waste as risk management, and for policymakers to make waste prevention central to climate and health agendas.
Samed Agirbas, President, Zero Waste Foundation gives a speech
11.15am
In an Energy and Transport session on unlocking revenue from the world's heavy polluters, Tina Stege, Climate Envoy of the Marshall Islands speaks to the goals of shipping:
"This industry has to serve our survival as a country and not just make money. It’s in our interest to be a productive industry but one that is safe for people and the planet ."
Tina Stege, Climate Envoy of the Marshall Islands on stage
11.00am
In the session Climate, health and the bottom line – rethinking risk in a warming world, Seema Wadhwa, CEO, Health in Climate, and Rob Roy, CIO, AdventHealth discussed their brand new report, Climate Driven Health Impacts: The Missing Financial Risk.
Read the full report
10.24am
Regarding what's being overlooked, Dr. Jon Creyts, CEO, RMI shares:
"Upgrading and modernising the grid couldn't be more important. We're electrifying at twice the rate of energy growth and we're going to go about six times the rate of energy growth and expect to double or triple the amount of electrons we need to move around [...] That's all going to require us to upgrade [the grid] system tremendously.
10.20am
Kate Gallego, Mayor of Phoenix shares a powerful message:
"If people take away one message from me here today, it's that the focus on the AI transition and data centers really needs to be top of line. For us in Phoenix, we have a pretty advanced economy [...] but nothing has prepared us for [the intense demand of] AI and data centers."
"Right now, today, heat is taking too many people's lives [...] and yet we are seeing the biggest economic change of our lifetime be powered by fossil fuels when we know better."
Kate Gallego, Mayor of Phoenix on stage at The Hub Live
10.12am
Priscilla Sims-Brown, President and CEO, Amalgamated Bank shares her thoughts on how finance can be rewired to back the transition in a way that's genuinely sustainable.
"We have to accelerate the pace of what we are already doing [...] We need to fully utilise what is available today. [...] We have lots of tools that can be used, through private and public partnerships, that will result in the business case for companies to get involved and financials to get involved with sustainable finance."
Priscilla Sims-Brown, President and CEO, Amalgamated Bank takes part in a panel
9.58am
A Panel commences on stage focussing on the world of climate investment and where the smart money should go.
Patrick Herhold, Managing Director and Senior Partner, BCG speaks to the defining forces shaping where the money goes on a big-picture level:
"The key defining force is simply - where is the money? Where is the business case? Currently [...] that's renewables, electric grids, charging infrastructure, electric vehicles. [...] On a simplified level, everything that's electrified we do tend to see a business case."
Patrick Herhold, Managing Director and Senior Partner, BCG shares thoughts on stage
9.50am
In a keynote speech about Japan's efforts regarding climate change and food security, Yamamoto Sachiko, Parliamentary Vice-Minister, Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries of Japan shares:
"Climate change and food security are no longer separate. We must seek a way to resolve both of these issues. [...] Innovation is the key."
"Japan has well-proven technologies, and we are ready to scale."
Yamamoto Sachiko, Parliamentary Vice-Minister, Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries of Japan gives a keynote speech
9.38
Margaret Kim, CEO, Gold Standard shares the progress companies are making in their efforts to internally carbonise.
"One of the innovative approaches I've been observing in recent years is companies actually implementing an internal carbon fee - and using that fee to design their climate interventions and make investments.
However it is challenging [...] our role as civil society is to help that journey and see what that progress is."
Margaret Kim, CEO, Gold Standard shares thoughts in panel session
9.32am
Nancy Mahon, CSO, The Estée Lauder Companies shares thoughts on trade offs and when it's most effective to lean into sustainability:
"We now have 95 sustainable stores and, although the notion is that sustainable store design is more expensive [...] most of the time it's cost neutral or it's cheaper."
Nancy Mahon, CSO, The Estée Lauder Companies on stage at The Hub Live
9.25am
Have corporates converted green into growth? In a panel session digging into whether going green really does pay off for business, Diego Ibarra, Senior Partner, Roland Berger shares:
"We're seeing that the market leaders who are repositioning their value propositions around sustainability are significantly outpacing their peers."
Diego Ibarra, Senior Partner, Roland Berger takes part in a panel session
9.15am
In a conversation with Governor Bill Ritter Jr. President and Chair of the Board (North America), Climate Group, Pedro J. Pizzaro, CEO, Edison International shared thoughts on Climate change mitigation and adaptation.
"In the last several years we've invested billions of dollars around wild fire mitigation. And we're not done [...] the whole economy will need to deal with not just wild fire risks, but sea level rise, extreme heat, floods, droughts."
Pedro J. Pizzaro, CEO, Edison International speaks to Governor Bill Ritter Jr. - President and Chair of the Board (North America), Climate Group
9.05am
Sessions at The Hub Live begin with a speech from Hon. David Eby, Premier of British Columbia about policies that pay and clean growth from the ground up.
"We're not waiting around for some new technology to come along [...] [in British Columbia] we have $32 billion worth of investment going into expanding our electrical grid."
"It's time for us all to double down on our work - just because it gets more challenging doesn't mean it gets less any more important, in fact, it's more important than ever."
Hon. David Eby, Premier of British Columbia gives a keynote speech
8.25am
Our first Executive Series roundtable of the day, hosted by PwC, is underway. The session brings together climate leaders for an honest conversation around the business case for continued climate action, exploring key business drivers, where there can be a clear return on investment from putting the climate first, how to value the financial impacts of climate risk and how regulation is accelerating the need to embed sustainability into core business strategy.
7.30am
Good morning and welcome to day two of sessions at Climate Week NYC. Join us via the official live stream starting at 9.00am ET to watch all the action from The Hub Live including:
📹 Flagship Two - 9.00am - 10.30am EST
📹 Flagship Three - 2.00pm - 3.30pm EST
We'll be bringing you real-time updates and announcements here on the live blog - so be sure to keep checking back.
Monday, September 22
That's a wrap on an inspiring first day at The Hub Live, which counted over 1,500 attendees.
Tune in tomorrow for more live updates from day two of The Hub Live, where we'll be deep diving into topics including green leadership, policy and finance and the role of AI.
5.35
Sophia Li, Award-winning journalist and UN Human Rights Champion, takes us through all the excitement from the day in this wrap up video.
"What an incredible day we've had here in New York [...] From the very start, day one has packed global leaders activists and innovators into dozens of sessions all united by a single message: Power on."
Sophia Li, Award-winning journalist and UN Human Rights Champion
5.15pm
Senator Sheldon Whitehouse, US Senator, State of Rhode Island, closed the session with, “in a perfect world, AI would bring its own clean power – but it’s not the world we live in.”
"That’s why the Clean Cloud Act, and smart grid innovation, are so important – so this energy transition delivers growth without adding pollution.”
Sheldon Whitehouse, US Senator, State of Rhode Island speaking in a session AI
5.15pm
In an impactful panel on Leadership and Green Growth: Powering Progress – Grid Innovation, AI, and the Next US Energy Transition session, Christopher Wellise, VP, Sustainability, Equinix, stressed that “it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution – it’s going to be a portfolio of solutions.”
Holly Paeper, President, Commercial HVAC, Trane Technologies added, “we have the technology – it’s about scaling through community partnerships and next-generation skilled work.” Senator Sheldon Whitehouse closed with, “in a perfect world, AI would bring its own clean power – but it’s not the world we live in.”
Christopher Wellise, VP, Sustainability, Equinix and Holly Paeper, President, Commercial HVAC, Trane Technologies in a panel on grid innovation AI
4.40pm
In a fireside chat with our CEO Helen Clarkson on The Future Protein Economy – One Bite at a Time, Sarah Lake, CEO, Tilt Collective, underscored the central role of food in climate solutions.
“Food alone accounts for 30% of emissions—it’s critical to climate solutions.”
“If we win on climate but not on food, food security, and farmers, then we’re not winning at all.”
Sarah Lake, CEO, Tilt Collective partakes in a fireside chat
4.37pm
In a session hosted by the Potential Energy Coalition, this session explored the risks of staying silent on climate issues.
John Marshall, CEO of the Potential Energy Coalition, urged action: "There’s never been a better time than now to say the word ‘climate’. The data, numbers, and people are on our side when it comes to talking about it."
John Marshall, CEO of the Potential Energy Coalition
4.33pm
In a session focused on making energy systems more reliable and resilient, Brandon Spencer, President, Motion Business Area, ABB, stressed the untapped potential of energy efficiency.
"Energy efficiency is the number one thing we’re underutilizing," he said. "Updating to today’s technology alone can deliver 10-15% energy savings—an immediate step toward more secure, viable energy systems."
Brandon Spencer, President, Motion Business Area, ABB speaking in a session on energy security
3.45pm
In a session on Health Workers on the Frontlines: Caring for Communities When Disasters Strike, Paulette Frank, CSO of Johnson & Johnson, shared how health workers support communities during crises.
"More and more, we began to see the connections in our work. It’s not only a core value and a responsibility—it’s central to our business and our purpose. That’s what inspired us to bring this topic to a broader stage."
Paulette Frank, CSO, Johnson & Johnson speaking at The Hub Live
3.38pm
“We’re contracting 34 GW of power – the equivalent of around 34 nuclear plants,” said Nico de Golia, Director of Sustainability & Innovation at Microsoft, during a session on AI in Action: Innovations for Supply Chain Sustainability, highlighting the company’s massive investment in carbon-free electricity to drive supply chain sustainability.
Nico de Golia, Director of Sustainability & Innovation, Microsoft on Stage at The Hub Live
3.35pm
In the Coming of Age – COP30 and the Rise of a New International Era session, Simon Stiell, Executive Secretary of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, UNFCCC, emphasized:
“This new era of climate action must be about bringing our processes closer to the real economy.”
Simon Stiell, Executive Secretary, UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) speaking at the coming on COP30
2.55pm
At a session on how progress on climate can translate into resilience for people and places, Emmanuel Normant, VP for Sustainable Development, Saint-Gobain, took the audience to the frontline of sustainable construction.
"Sustainable buildings are resilient buildings," he said, and left the audience with this final message: "It's really important that we put people at the center. We have all the technical solutions, but if we aren't able to answer to the need of people, we will not be able to create a sustainable landscape."
Emmanuel Normant, VP for Sustainable Development, Saint-Gobain speaks on stage
2.35pm
The Rt. Hon Ed Miliband, Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change of the United Kingdom, joins Climate Group CEO Helen Clarkson to discuss how we can take charge to lead.
In an inspiring conversation, Miliband instilled hope. "There is so much we can learn from each other; we don't do this enough. What has worked elsewhere?"
He appealed to the audience – "Don' give up on multilateralism. Don't believe the naysayers." – and stressed how important it is to show the positive direction the climate action community is moving in: "We're not in the disaster avoidance business. We're in the better lives business."
A reason to be cheerful? "The amazing community at Climate Week NYC – businesses, governments, civil society, NGOs – and what this coalition is achieving."
The Rt. Hon Ed Miliband, Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change of the United Kingdom in a fireside chat with Climate Group CEO, Helen Clarkson
1.54pm
H.E. Hashim Djojohadikusumo, Special Presidential Envoy for Climate, Energy & Environment, Republic of Indonesia, dove into both the challenges and the opportunities for his country, and had this warning: "Indonesia is a major victim of climate change. Many of our islands are disappearing."
H.E. Hashim Djojohadikusumo, Special Presidential Envoy for Climate, Energy & Environment, Republic of Indonesia takes part in a panel
1.48pm
The Hub Live is back after a short break with a session on how to lead in an era of peril and possibility.
Dr. Tzeporah Berman, Chair, Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty, reminded the room that we're still extracting more fossil fuels than we are ever able to safely burn: "It's not a transition if we're growing the problem. We can't just build the good stuff; we have to stop building the bad stuff [...]"
"Bold leadership means standing up to bullies."
Dr. Tzeporah Berman, Chair, Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty on stage at The Hub Live
1.22pm
Helen Clarkson OBE, CEO, Climate Group, closed this morning's Opening Ceremony, where we heard from businesses and governments on the importance for a safer future for generations to come "What today demonstrates is that so much of the world is powering on."
Tune in shortly for live updates from The Hub Live, where we'll be deep diving into topics including green leadership, policy and finance and the role of AI.
12.05pm
In her speech on accelerating climate action, Teresa Ribera, Executive Vice-President of the European Commission for Clean, Just and Competitive Transition, highlighted the importance of going further, faster: “We need to be strong enough to defend our values[…] in our domestic policies, and in our external actions.”
Her words served as a reminder that climate leadership requires both conviction and courage – at home and on the global stage.
Teresa Ribera, Executive Vice-President of the European Commission for Clean, Just and Competitive Transition
12.02pm
In a session focused on long-term solutions for the planet, Dr. Andrew Forrest AO, Chairman of Fortescue Metals Group, shared a striking observation: “The falling costs of equipment to make energy is unparalleled. The winds are blowing at the back of those people that want to stop global warming, and blow in the face of those that don't believe in it.”
He closed the session with a call to business leaders: “I’m asking all chief executives – when will you stop burning fossil fuels?”
Dr. Andrew Forrest AO, Chairman, Fortescue Metals Group speaks on stage
11.48am
Mark Ruffalo, Actor and Co-Founder, The Solutions Project takes to the stage with Gloria Walton, CEO, The Solutions Project for a conversation about moving from grassroots to global and turning public momentum into policy change.
"What I'd like to see political leaders do is actually use their power to change it for us and future leaders. If you want to get into living costs, working conditions – everything comes down to climate change. There is a fear of the paradigm that we’re living in that is stopping us. We need to drop our fear and live up to the moment."
Actor and activist, Mark Ruffalo on stage at The Hub Live
11.42am
Damilola Ogunbiyi, Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General and CEO of Sustainable Energy for All gives a speech about the power shift - from clean power to world power.
"We can’t discount that 84% of the world’s population live in developing countries. [...] Only 15% of investment in clean energy goes to developing countries. We can’t talk about development without talking about Africa. "
"We have to phase out fossil fuels subsidies, we need to electrify transport systems, we need to restore ecosystems and prioritise just transitions that leave no-one behind."
Damilola Ogunbiyi, Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General and CEO of Sustainable Energy for All, gives a keynote speech
11.35am
Carine Smith Ihenacho, Chief Governance and Compliance Officer, Norges Bank Investment Management addresses the business case for taking climate change in to account.
"Companies that get it right definitely have an edge. Climate risk is asset risk. It affects all business, and companies and us as investors. [...] Companies need to be profitable, but they need to have a plan for transition to be profitable in the long-run. We’re now seeing a shift from climate targets to climate action."
Dan Ioschpe, COP30 High Level Champion shares his thoughts on how this can be improved:
"We need to do a lot more. We're accelerating but we need to do across more sectors. We're trying to showcase solutions at COP30 and help them accelerate. If we have a demand and supply side, it helps accelerate the finance side. We can do better with platforms, communicating the granularity of solutions so funders are aware."
11.31am
A panel session commences deep-diving into protecting profit and the planet.
Ezgi Barcenas, Chief Corporate Responsibility Officer, L'Oréal Group shares thoughts on how these can go hand in hand.
"L'Oreal Group is present in over 150 countries, so we see the widening impacts of climate change. We have a responsibility but an opportunity to shape the future of beauty: it’s more sustainable, inclusive and personalised.
We need to build resilience in our communities and in our business. We need to build for a water-resilient future and we’re investing in the technology that can ultimately unlock innovation."
Ezgi Barcenas, Chief Corporate Responsibility Officer, L'Oréal Group
11.22am
In a conversation about the ROI of sustainability in an era of uncertainty, Donny Simmons, Group President – Americas Region, Trane Technologies spoke about the importance of innovation.
"Last year, we launched 188 new products focusing on improving sustainability. The efficiency of our projects are improving greatly – we've seen 70% improved efficiency in the last few years. It creates value for our customers along the way."
Donny Simmons, Group President – Americas Region, Trane Technologies on stage
11.10am
Following a short networking break, we're back with Part Two of the Opening Ceremony.
Hon. Chris Bowen, Minister for Climate Change and Energy of Australia takes to the stage to give a keynote speech: From energy transition to energy stability.
"Australian houses are becoming a power plant – solar panels on roofs, battery in the backyard. They're choosing to get an energy rebate, not a bill. To get a cheque from their energy provider, instead of sending one in.
Our message to Australians is: You can be in charge of your energy - the energy you consume, and the energy you produce. [...]We fundamentally reject the narrative that it’s too hard to address climate change. It’s an opportunity."
Hon. Chris Bowen, Minister for Climate Change and Energy of Australia addresses the audience
10.22am
Alicia Bárcena Ibarra, Secretary of Environment and Natural Resources of Mexico takes to the stage to give a keynote speech about defining the future we choose.
"Climate Week NYC is more than a gathering - it makes us acknowledge the reality before us. [Climate change] is not only the greatest challenge, but an opportunity to shape our society, economics."
"Mexico are preparing for the NDCs, but we are a country that produced fossil fuels and its difficult to phase these out and come into renewable energy. Even though it's difficult, we have to make it happen. [...] We are focusing on community participation. If you do not take into account the local communities, their problems, the NDCs become a top-down exercise that doesn't take us anywhere. "
"We don't have a plan b, or a planet b. We have to make it happen, and we need solidarity and courage."
10.10
Farmer Lee Jones, Regenerative Farmer & Founder, The Chef’s Garden spoke passionately about the urgency with which we need to preserve water.
"Conservation of water and soil are so critical, we are not making any more - we need to hang on to that.
There will be droughts, and there will be excessive water - we know this. Everything we can do with these cover crops - capturing the carbon and preserving the water, controlling the soil temperature during periods of hot weather - these things make a huge difference. [...] It's about education, conservation. I'm excited about the future, but I'm nervous."
Farmer Lee Jones, Regenerative Farmer & Founder, The Chef’s Garden on stage
10.02am
In panel session focussing on the Mississippi river and why climate connects us all, Gary Locco, Mayor of Red Wing, Minnesota speaks about they way cities are connected through the river.
"The truth is we are interconnected. If the grain cannot flow down the river because of water levels, it affects our communities."
Gary Locco, Mayor of Red Wing, Minnesota participates in a panel
9.55am
Mark Patel, Senior Partner, McKinsey & Company takes to the stage to give a keynote speech about why adaptation can't wait.
"In this moment, there's a lot of discussion on whether the climate mission has lost momentum. [...] The greatest realisation is that the transition to a low carbon planet is no longer a monolithic journey. We now have to accept that it looks a lot more fragmented.
We're ramping up faster and coming to market faster, as well as halving the time it takes to develop products and bring them to market, when there is a consumer driven need. [...] There are real fractures, but these fractures are likely here to stay. They need to be harnessed and used as avenues for innovation."
Mark Patel, Senior Partner, McKinsey & Company gives a keynote speech
9.50am
Dr. Sabine Mauderer, First Deputy Governor and CFO, Deutsche Bundesbank addresses the need for markets and economies to be reactive:
"We have to adapt to a warmer world, but we cannot adapt to a hot house world scenario. We really have to bare in mind that while we need to adapt, adaptation has its limits."
Dr. Sabine Mauderer, First Deputy Governor and CFO, Deutsche Bundesbank on stage
9.42am
In a conversation about what the 'point of no return' could cost us, Hon. Ralph Regenvanu, Minister of Climate Change, Republic of Vanuatu shares:
"We have options in Vanuatu. We are indigenous people, through our constitution we have access to land - they can move from low lying areas to higher ground. We are very fortunate [but] we will all eventually be on the frontlines.
Hon. Ralph Regenvanu, Minister of Climate Change, Republic of Vanuatu in conversation on stage
9.35am
On the role of COP30, André Corrêa do Lago, COP30 President-Designate, Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs shares:
"The scale of the Amazon in Brazil in amazing, it has 15.5 million people living in a space the size of India, and they are 75% urban. There are so many ideas that are coming from the Amazon, just that makes COP30 a success, to me."
Simon Stiell, Executive Director, UNFCC speaks to the opportunities COP30 presents saying:
"We have the tools, the technologies, what needs to be done, who needs to do it, and when. It's bringing that together in an inclusive way that speaks to action from all actors involved - and how we mobilise that."
Champa Patel, Executive Director, Government and Policy, Climate Group moderates conversation on stage
9.29am
In a conversation moderated by Champa Patel, Executive Director, Government and Policy, Climate Group, participants discuss rebuilding trust in the coming decade.
Simon Stiell, Executive Director, UNFCCC addresses what's needed to move in the right direction:
"Part of the challenge is dejargonising, it is making what we are doing more consumable in living rooms. Not enough time is spent discussing the benefits, the benefits of climate action and the impacts on ordinary people in their daily lives."
Simon Stiell, Executive Director, UNFCCC in conversation with André Corrêa do Lago, COP30 President-Designate, Brazilian Ministry of Foreign
9.20am
Hon. Gaston Browne, Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda takes to the stage for a keynote speech addressing the hard economics of a warming world.
“Climate finance is not an option but quintessential for development […] We demand a world where it is not the ceiling of our mission, but the bridge to justice.”
Hon. Gaston Browne, Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda gives a keynote speech
9.13am
In a powerful welcome speech, Helen Clarkson OBE, CEO, Climate Group shares why now is such an important time to Power On, spotlighting some of the big achievements of the last year as a result of collective action.
"It may seem contradictory to talk about power at a time when many of us feel so powerless. [...] By trying to talk about a collective action problem at an individual level, of course it doesn’t add up. But Climate Week NYC has never been about what you can do as individuals, it’s what we can do together.
We’re here to Power On. In the end, either we will have a liveable planet, or we won't. It’s an uphill struggle, but we know we don’t have a choice. It’s up to us to protect what we love."
Helen Clarkson OBE, CEO, Climate Group kicks off the Opening Ceremony
8.00am
Our first Executive Series roundtable of the day, hosted by PwC, is underway. The session brings together climate leaders to delve into how we can create and protect value amid risk and volatility.
7.30am
Welcome to the first day of sessions at Climate Week NYC. Join us via the official live stream starting at 9.00am ET to watch all the action from the main stage including:
📹 The Opening Ceremony - 9.00am - 12.15pm ET
📹 The Hub Live, Flagship One - 1.30pm - 3pm ET
We'll be bringing you the biggest updates, as they unfold, right here on the live blog - so be sure to keep checking back.
Sunday, September 21
We'll be back tomorrow at 9.00am ET sharing real-time updates from the Opening Ceremony and The Hub Live.
Whether you're joining in person, or watching via the live stream, it's set to be a day of impactful conversations, with decision makers and action takers taking to the stage to address the most urgent climate challenges.
See you there.
7.15pm
The sun sets on The Sky Farm in Queens - an acre-large urban rooftop farm, that promotes education, sustainability, healthy eating and helps feed local families.
Partners, including Hydro Québec, gather to mark the start of Climate Week NYC and support this great initiative.
Sunset at The Sky Farm in Queens
1.10pm
The conversation about climate action has taken to the streets with Street Art for Mankind's tour of epic and iconic artworks taking over the City.
Building on the success of the five climate action murals created in partnership with UNEP during Climate Week 2023 and 2024, the series has expanded to include three additional murals focusing on priorities including: Young Change Makers, Clean Air, and the Water Cycle.
Attendees take in the climate street art taking over New York
Saturday, September 20
2.30pm
This year's Climate Week NYC has officially launched.
We kicked off a week of bold climate action in the heart of Times Square with Battery Tour and AY Young as part of their Road to 1000 clean energy concerts.
"Times Square is more than a stage; it’s proof that culture can power solutions. Now we Power On and get the world plugged in. Everyone is an outlet for change."
AY Young takes to the stage in Times Square