Climate Summit Launches Synergy Report Linking Climate Action and Inclusive Development

During the UN General Assembly high-level week, the 2025 Climate Ambition Summit brought together nearly 100 countries. Close to 40 Heads of State and Government presented updated climate plans ahead of COP30 in Belém, Brazil. Alongside these announcements, the Summit also saw the launch of the Third Global Report on Climate and SDG Synergies, co-convened by UN DESA and the UNFCCC. 

Social Inclusion at the Heart of Climate Action 

The report shows that aligning climate action with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) can boost government efficiency by nearly 40 percent compared to siloed approaches. But beyond cost savings, it highlights how integrated policy can deliver wide-reaching social benefits. 

One major theme is inclusive urban development. Expanding access to clean transport, green buildings, and climate-resilient infrastructure can lower emissions, improve public health, and generate decent jobs—especially in underserved areas. For example, urban tree canopies and cool roofs reduce heat stress while also cutting healthcare costs. 

The report also stresses the importance of adaptive social protection. In regions vulnerable to climate shocks, expanding insurance coverage helps protect low-income households and reduce long-term vulnerability. A one percent increase in coverage moves countries nearly six percent closer to achieving the SDGs. 

Nature-based solutions, when designed inclusively, can support rural livelihoods, enhance food security, and preserve biodiversity. These interventions also offer pathways to strengthen Indigenous leadership and knowledge systems. 

Bridging Policy and Practice 
 
The report also offers practical guidance for governments navigating climate–development trade-offs. It emphasizes the value of integrated planning tools, such as joint climate and SDG budget tracking, climate-resilient social registries, and participatory governance mechanisms. These tools not only improve policy coherence but help ensure that climate investments are reaching the most vulnerable. Evidence from countries like Kenya, Bangladesh and Peru shows that when climate priorities are embedded in national development strategies, outcomes are more equitable, more efficient, and more sustainable. 

A Roadmap for COP30 and Beyond 

Throughout, the report calls for climate investments that prioritize equity. More than 260 million young people still lack access to education, employment or training, and two-thirds are women. Addressing these gaps is essential to advancing both climate and development goals. 

As the world prepares for COP30 and the Second World Summit for Social Development, the Synergy Report makes a clear case for action: climate solutions that center people and justice are not only fairer, but they are also more effective. 

Learn more about the Climate Summit 2025 here. 

Read the full Global Report here.