From September 22-29, 2024, thousands will gather in New York City to attend Climate Week—the largest annual climate event of its kind. Attendees can expect to rub shoulders with some of the world’s most influential climate leaders who are working to make a difference in our planet’s future. 

The first Climate Week NYC occurred in 2009, and the event has only grown since. As a summit, it provides a platform for approximately 600 smaller events that take place in the city, along with a few high-profile events that can be streamed online.  

It’s organized by Climate Group in partnership with the United Nations, and it’s one of the most high-profile platforms for discussions about climate change and our best solutions to accelerate collective action. It’s been described as “Burning Man for climate geeks,” and the label couldn’t be more accurate—networking opportunities, panels, keynotes, and dinners make for a thrilling atmosphere of determination and hope.

This year’s theme, “It’s Time,” underscores the urgency of the climate crisis and the need for immediate and concrete action. The event coincides with the Summit of the Future, amplifying its significance as it brings together business leaders, political decision-makers, and civil society representatives. 

Climate Week is incredibly important because it offers a platform for organizations of all sizes to interact and share resources. And much can be accomplished on this platform: for instance, last year, the outcomes report from the Executive Series with PwC showcased the significance of high-impact discussions and roundtables focused on climate-related challenges and solutions. The event also raises the media profile of climate issues, which can inspire even more action. 

Key Island Conservation staff will be attending Climate Week this year. We are excited to meet with climate leaders and partners, attend panel discussions, and share our knowledge of how holistic island restoration can build climate resilience. Islands are sometimes overlooked in planet-scale discussions, so we look forward to highlighting these vital but underrepresented ecosystems and cultures. 

Climate Week NYC connects those with the power and means to drive change with visionary leaders and thinkers in the climate space. It’s an event that aims to turn us all into action-takers and inspire us to protect our planet. Make sure to follow along to see what’s going on and what Island Conservation gets up to at the largest event of its kind by subscribing to our newsletter!