HLPF Side Event: Strengthening Climate and SDG Synergies for Accelerated Momentum Toward 2030
📍 UN Headquarters, New York — Conference Room 11
🗓 Tuesday, 22 July 2025
🕙 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM EDT
ABOUT THE EVENT
As the world enters the final five-year sprint toward the 2030 deadline, urgent action is needed to reverse worrying trends across both the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Paris Agreement on Climate Change. Only 17% of SDG targets are on track, while climate impacts—from extreme heat to rising sea levels—are escalating, especially for the most vulnerable.
This high-level Special Event, held during the 2025 High-Level Political Forum (HLPF), will spotlight the power of integrated action—climate and SDG “synergies”—to create scalable, impactful solutions that address multiple challenges at once.
Hosted by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA) and the UNFCCC Secretariat, the event builds on the outcomes of the Sixth Global Climate and SDG Synergies Conference held in May 2025 in Copenhagen and sets the stage for key global moments ahead, including COP30, the 2025 Financing for Development Conference, and the next round of national climate commitments (NDC 3.0).
WHY SYNERGIES MATTER
Despite the interconnected nature of climate and development challenges, progress remains fragmented. Over 80% of SDG targets have direct links to climate change—offering enormous untapped potential for co-benefits, resource efficiency, and long-term resilience.
The 2025 Global Report on Climate and SDG Synergies, along with three complementary Thematic Reports, demonstrate how coordinated efforts can:
- Reduce poverty and inequality while protecting the planet
- Improve public health through urban climate resilience
- Balance nature conservation with sustainable development
- Mobilize finance and insurance to reach the most vulnerable
WHAT TO EXPECT
This interactive event marks the official launch of three Thematic Reports, developed by the Expert Group on Climate and SDG Synergies, and features three focused panel discussions:
- Panel 1: Enhancing Health Through Resilient Cities
Explore how integrated urban planning and clean energy access can reduce health risks and improve quality of life. - Panel 2: Balancing Biodiversity, Nature Protection, and Development
Examine nature-based solutions that restore ecosystems and support communities, from forests to coastlines. - Panel 3: Financing the Last Mile
Discuss ways to close the insurance protection gap and ensure financial tools reach the most climate-exposed populations.
Each panel will bring together thought leaders, policymakers, youth voices, and practitioners to discuss real-world solutions and best practices from across regions.
BE PART OF THE CONVERSATION
The event will provide concrete insights and policy entry points to mainstream synergy-based approaches across planning, budgeting, and implementation. The event invites participation from Member States, the Expert Group, youth leaders, and community voices to shape a future where climate action and sustainable development go hand-in-hand.
📍 Entry available with a valid UN grounds pass or HLPF badge
📺 Watch live: https://webtv.un.org/en
Join us in advancing synergy for people, planet, and prosperity.
