Can London Climate Action Week spark tangible global action?

​This year’s London Climate Action Week (LCAW) kicked off on June 24th to unite thought leaders and innovators to find global solutions to the climate emergency.

There has never been more urgency to act fast against the threat of climate change and develop robust, sustainable solutions but for long-term success, society must be proactive, form a partnership and work closely together to develop and scale innovations that will be the pinnacle to healing the planet.

So, what is London Climate Action Week?

The annual event, the largest independent climate gathering in Europe, aims to build collaboration between communities and world-leading, pioneering climate professionals to demonstrate London’s climate change action to the rest of the world.

Backed by E3G, the not-for-profit world leading strategists on the political economy of climate change, the ultimate goal of this major festival (step aside Glastonbury) is to accelerate climate action across London, the UK and across the globe, based on a vibrant week of events.

The global movement will not only showcase London’s ‘net zero by 2030’ ambitions but will also demonstrate best practice for accelerating a fair and inclusive climate transition to inspire other countries to follow suit.

Why is it held in London?

The capital is working towards becoming a green and inclusive city, by embracing diversity, supporting those who are disadvantaged and tackling the issues that create division among communities.

With a reputation for being a major centre of financial and geopolitical expertise, the city aims to establish a just transition towards a net zero future to ensure no one is left behind in the process, while positioning itself as a global sought after centre of innovation and climate expertise.

The dedicated week aims to strengthen the city’s climate ecosystem by producing a London Climate Cluster, which will improve the future global impact of its climate action networks.

As the clean economy begins to scale, sparking competition, it places London in a prime position to address global market growth as it picks up pace, while dampening any tensions that emerge as major countries seek to limit vulnerabilities.

What is the theme for this year’s London Climate Action Week?

This year will focus on four themes: accelerating the global clean economy, delivering fair inclusive and just climate transitions for mitigating and adaptation (both inside and between countries), expanding networks for Whole of Society Action in London and beyond and creating a greener London with and for Londoners.

How can this dedicated week make a difference to the planet?

Now in its fifth year, this event aims to highlight London’s position as a major player in the climate debate and unlock climate action within countries.

It also celebrates the diverse international heritages, connections and experiences within the London community through culturally-rich events and initiatives for a unique, global experience.

Diversity can lead to greater innovation and more effective decision making, as those with varied backgrounds often bring a wealth of perspectives and wider problem solving techniques as a result of deep cultural knowledge.

How can I get involved?

LCAW 2023 has a varied range of events for people to get involved in, whichever element of the climate crisis you are most aligned to.

Whether you are keen to understand more about public transport investment and boosting green jobs, understanding the effects of fossil fuels and air pollution, or you want to learn how to unlock green jobs and skills in the workplace, the website has an event timetable to pique your interest.

LCAW 2023 aims to have greater visibility to, and participation from, a wider range of Londoners.

Have you attended any London Climate Action Week 2023 events so far? We would be interested to hear from you about the topics you have found most impactful. If you have unearthed any specific innovations or impressive technology that you believe will be successful in preventing further climate damage, we look forward to hearing from you.