Opinion: Climate Action Needs Local Focus, Global Scale

A writer argues coordinated climate action focusing on three vulnerable regions, the Amazon, Borneo, and the Hindu Kush Himalaya, can serve as a model for wider policy changes. These areas collectively store significant terrestrial carbon and support at least one-quarter of all known species while providing resources for billions of people.

The author recently participated in discussions with 170 organizations in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia, regarding expanding impact investing related to the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Despite agreeing on 17 goals in 2015, progress is slow with only 18 percent currently projected to be achievable by 2030 due to insufficient funding and political will.

The author suggests prioritizing problems, demonstrating solutions, and scaling up successful interventions. Focusing on these three frontline regions offers a chance to address biodiversity loss, water security, food systems, and energy challenges while mitigating risks of irreversible environmental tipping points.