On November 11, 2025, during COP30 in the heart of the Brazilian Amazon, the United Nations unveiled a new report spotlighting a powerful force in the climate fight: non-state actors. While national delegations negotiate the next big targets, cities, companies and civil society are already rolling up their sleeves to make change happen.
🏙️ Cities are transforming skylines and social policies to cut emissions. From Medellin's electric bus fleets to Seoul's smart grids, local leaders are crafting plans that fit their communities. Networks like C40 Cities and local coalitions are sharing blueprints for greener streets, proving that urban hubs can be climate champions.
💼 On the business front, companies big and small are investing in renewable energy, exploring green financing and rethinking supply chains. Tech startups in São Paulo and entrepreneurs worldwide are jumping into carbon markets and sustainable innovations. Their goal? Building a low-carbon economy that's both profitable and planet-friendly.
🌿 Civil society and grassroots movements are the heart of the report's story. NGOs, youth activists and community groups are driving conservation projects in the Amazon, raising awareness and holding decision-makers accountable. These local voices are vital in connecting global goals to real-life impacts on the ground.
Why does this matter? Non-state actors bring agility, creativity and local expertise that complement national policies. For young professionals, students and the Asian diaspora tuning in, it's a call to action: you have the power to influence climate solutions in your city, campus or community.
As the COP30 conference unfolds, all eyes are on how these on-the-ground efforts will shape international agreements. For amigonews readers, this UN report is a reminder that climate progress isn't only happening in conference halls—it's happening in every corner of the world, driven by people like you.
Reference(s):
UN report highlights key role of non-state actors in climate action
cgtn.com
