As the world turns its focus to the NDC Summit, one message is clear: national commitments alone cannot deliver on climate.
Subnational governments - for instance the states and regions representing 50% of global GDP in the Under2 Coalition - are where climate impacts are directly felt, and where the solutions are already being delivered.
That is why Subnational Transition Plans (STPs) matter. These locally driven strategies map out how states and regions will cut emissions, build resilience, and accelerate the just transition. They turn national pledges into local delivery - with projects, accountability, and benefits for people on the ground.
Already, 73% of Under2 Coalition governments have developed STPs, often matching or exceeding national targets - reinforcing and accelerating their countries’ progress toward NDCs.
But ambition is not enough. Persistent barriers, from limited access to international finance to under-representation in global processes, continue to slow delivery
If national climate goals are to succeed, the world must recognise subnational governments as equal partners in the transition.
What leadership looks like on the ground
Across the globe, subnational governments are showing how STPs are already providing a framework for positive impact:
- Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil: After floods devastated 95% of municipalities, the state launched ProClima2050, embedding resilience through local climate commissions, a new MRV platform, and payments to farmers protecting the environment.
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- Santa Fe, Argentina: Backed by a Climate Action Law, Santa Fe’s Provincial Response Plan is already delivering — from new sustainable mobility laws to a Master Plan for water regions.
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- New South Wales, Australia: Responsible for 26% of national emissions, NSW has legislated a 50% cut by 2030 and 70% by 2035, with an independent Net Zero Commission ensuring accountability. Its Energy Roadmap is managing the coal exit while scaling renewables and storage.
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The case for recognition
These examples show that subnational action is decisive. STPs are already proving how subnational governments strengthen national NDCs. The challenge now is to unlock some of the remaining barriers, whilst ensuring strong communication channels between levels of government
As leaders gather at the NDC Summit, multilevel action must be recognised as the bridge between ambition and delivery. Without it, we cannot meet our global climate goals.
Find out more about Climate Group’s Subnational Transition Plan project