The first half of 2024 has been marked by record-breaking climate events, but rather than discouraging communities, these have spurred waves of resilience and action. Extreme heat, flooding, wildfires, and storms have ravaged cities across continents, but local and international efforts show that adaptation and mitigation are not just possible, they’re already making a difference.

In South Asia, unrelenting heatwaves affected hundreds of millions in countries like India, Thailand, and the Philippines, with temperatures soaring beyond 46°C. This year's early heat, compounded by El Niño, forced school closures, disrupted elections, and threatened health systems. Yet, communities are responding with creative solutions. In India, community-led projects have constructed shaded public spaces, and local governments are investing in urban greening to reduce surface temperatures and promote airflow in densely populated cities.

Meanwhile, Rio Grande do Sul in Brazil witnessed catastrophic flooding from record rains that submerged towns and displaced thousands. In response, local governments set up robust recovery and rebuilding programs. Residents are participating in community-driven, sustainable land-use projects that aim to reforest upland areas and reduce future flood risks. These efforts highlight the importance of community and proactive planning in adapting to climate pressures.

Extreme heat in North America has sparked new, large-scale initiatives. In July, the Biden administration hosted its first White House Summit on Extreme Heat, bringing together policymakers, scientists, and local leaders to discuss long-term strategies for heat resilience. Solutions include heat-resilient infrastructure, new cooling systems, and funding for climate education programs. Cities like Phoenix and Miami are leading with innovative ‘heat action plans’ (HAPs) that prioritize green spaces, heat shelters, and accessible cooling centers.

In Canada, communities recovering from wildfires are planting trees and setting up better firebreaks around vulnerable towns. Following 2023’s record-breaking wildfire season, which continued into 2024, indigenous groups in Alberta and British Columbia have been essential in restoring burned areas with native plants, creating a natural buffer against future fires and preserving cultural lands.

Globally, grassroots movements are harnessing the power of local knowledge and technology. In Kenya, where flooding and drought alternate, organizations are building affordable rainwater collection systems and teaching sustainable agricultural practices to conserve water. Across affected regions, communities are adapting and innovating at an impressive pace, highlighting the powerful role of local action in addressing the climate crisis.

While tipping points are looming, so is the hope for a resilient world. As UN Secretary-General António Guterres says, “The climate crisis is a race we can and must win.” Around the world, people are proving that resilience isn’t just possible, it’s already happening. As environmental challenges are intensifying, people worldwide are rising to meet them, and much hope remains for our collective climate future.