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Today, on Earth Day 2025, we're proud to celebrate a major milestone for climate leadership: seven of the eleven featured leaders in the United Nations' new Local Leaders series are members of the Under2 Coalition.
This achievement is a powerful testament to the unwavering commitment and global impact of subnational governments leading the path towards a sustainable future.
Launched by the UN in collaboration with the Under2 Coalition, C40 Cities, Global Covenant of Mayors, and America is All In, the Local Leaders series highlights the bold and innovative actions of governors, premiers, and mayors around the world. States, regions, and cities are driving change on the ground, making their communities more resilient, inclusive, and climate-ready. Their actions, albeit local, have a global impact and reaffirm their commitment to the Paris Agreement.
Explore the Local Leaders series.
Each story featured in the series exemplifies the spirit of Earth Day: global collaboration, local action, and the urgent need to tackle the climate crisis head-on. Whether it's investing in clean energy, building climate-smart infrastructure, or championing inclusive climate policy, these leaders are setting a precedent for what’s possible when ambition meets action.
We're especially proud to recognise the following Under2 Coalition members featured in the UN’s Local Leaders series:
- Andalusia, Spain – Supporting over 600 municipalities in strengthening their local climate resilience.
- Baden-Württemberg, Germany – Committed to achieving climate neutrality by 2040 with a strong legislative framework.
- California, United States – Driving economic transformation through bold climate policy and investment.
- Guelmim-Oued Noun, Morocco – Confronting water scarcity and climate adaptation through nature-based solutions.
- Gyeonggi Province, Republic of Korea – Providing universal climate disaster insurance to protect residents.
- Maharashtra, India – Mobilizing communities at the grassroots to deliver inclusive climate action.
- Québec, Canada – Leading the way with nearly 100% renewable electricity and green industrial development.
The prominence of Under2 Coalition leaders in this UN series reflects the core mission of the Coalition—to drive climate action at the state, regional, and provincial level and to support subnational governments in delivering on the goals of the Paris Agreement. As we reflect on the progress made and the path ahead, we are inspired by the dedication of our members and grateful for the recognition of their efforts. Their leadership continues to demonstrate that climate action knows no borders—and that solutions can and must be driven from the ground up.