Climate Week NYC: A World Divided

New York City buzzes with activity during Climate Week, hosting the UN General Assembly and numerous related events, including the sold-out New York Times Climate Forward conference featuring Energy Secretary Chris Wright, Hilda Heine (President of the Marshall Islands), and Senator Brian Schatz. Register for the free livestream here.

<img src="https://static01.nyt.com/images/2025/09/22/multimedia/22cli-newsletter-climate-week-02-cgjk/22cli-newsletter-climate-week-02-cgjk-articleLarge.jpg?quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale" alt="Image of a speaker at a climate conference">

This year's urgency is heightened by record temperatures and disasters. The US, a recent climate leader under President Biden, has since retreated under President Trump, dismissing climate threats and promoting fossil fuels. This shift significantly impacts global efforts.

Interviews with World Leaders

Six world leaders shared their perspectives on adapting to a changing climate and navigating the US's withdrawal from the Paris Agreement:

• President Hilda Heine of the Marshall Islands warned of potential submersion by 2050 if emissions aren't drastically reduced.
• President Mohamed Irfaan Ali of Guyana highlighted the challenge of balancing oil resource development with rainforest preservation.
• Prime Minister Anthony Albanese of Australia emphasized the importance of multilateral diplomacy through the UN framework.

Read the full interviews here.

Climate Forward Podcast with Al Gore

The Climate Forward podcast launched with an interview featuring former Vice President Al Gore, discussing the climate movement's progress, setbacks, and future potential. Gore acknowledged the planet's approach to catastrophic tipping points but remains optimistic about a global transition to a cleaner economy. Listen on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

Walmart Heir's Generous Contribution

Rob Walton, Walmart heir, donated $115 million to Arizona State University to establish the Rob Walton School of Conservation Futures. This initiative will train professionals in land management, flood control, and wilderness preservation, addressing the growing need for skilled workers in sustainability.

More Climate News

• Uruguay's success in decarbonizing its energy grid in just five years. (Washington Post)
• Laos's surplus electricity powering cryptocurrency mining operations. (South China Morning Post)
• Evictions in Belém, Brazil to make way for COP30. (The Guardian)