A high-level special event explored the power of integrated action to create scalable, impactful solutions to tackle climate change and achieve the SDGs. The event, which took place during the 2025 session of the UN High-level Political Forum on Sustainable Development (HLPF), launched three thematic reports with recommendations on: pursuing Nature-based Solutions (NbS) that support climate and biodiversity action as well as inclusive development; improving insurance coverage for climate-related disasters; and adopting urban climate policies that also offer health benefits.
Themed, ‘Strengthening Climate and SDG Synergies for Accelerated Momentum Toward 2030,’ the special event built on the outcomes of the Sixth Global Climate and SDG Synergies Conference and the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development (FfD4). It sought to set the stage for other key global moments, including the UN Climate Change Conference (UNFCCC COP 30) and the next round of nationally determined contributions (NDCs).
While climate and development challenges are interconnected, progress remains fragmented, according to the UN. With more than 80% of SDG targets directly linked to climate change, the potential for co-benefits, resource efficiency, and long-term resilience is enormous.
Developed by members of the Expert Group on Climate and SDG Synergy, co-convened by the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA) and the UNFCCC, the 2025 thematic reports focus on:
- ‘How Nature Conservation Can Advance SDG and Climate Action’;
- ‘Closing the Climate and Disaster Insurance Protection Gap’; and
- ‘Linking Climate and Health Action in Cities.’
The reports demonstrate how “greater impact could be achieved by breaking down silos and tackling the climate change and sustainable development crises together.” The three thematic reports contribute to the 2025 Global Report on Climate and SDGs Synergies that will be published in September.
Hosted by DESA and the UNFCCC Secretariat, the special event took place at UN Headquarters in New York, US, on 22 July. In addition to the thematic reports’ launch, it featured panel discussions on: innovative financing; balancing biodiversity, nature protection, and development; and enhancing health through resilient cities. [Publication: How Nature Conservation Can Advance SDG and Climate Action] [Publication: Closing the Climate and Disaster Insurance Protection Gap] [Publication: Linking Climate and Health Action in Cities] [HLPF Special Event: Strengthening Climate and SDG Synergies for Accelerated Momentum Toward 2030]