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It’s hard to avoid the news these days. Whether it’s election cycles, global conflict, or economic turbulence, the sense of division and uncertainty feels sharper than ever. With so much happening in the headlines, it’s easy to wonder if climate action has slipped down the agenda. But the climate crisis hasn’t gone away. If you’re reading this, you probably know just how serious the threat remains.

Climate change drives the greatest global risks

The World Economic Forum’s (WEF) Global Risks Report shows that environmental risks dominate the long-term horizon. The top risks over this period include extreme weather events, biodiversity loss and ecosystem collapse, critical changes to Earth systems and natural resource shortages.

Even in the short term, extreme weather events rank among the top global concerns, showing that climate risks have a key role in today’s crises. At the time of writing, we saw these risks in action. Storm Melissa caused devastation in the Caribbean, as dozens of people have died, and homes and livelihoods have been destroyed, as the hurricane moved through the region. The impact of the storm can be attributed to climate change, as unusually warm ocean temperatures provide energy to intensify the storm.

The top four long-term threats (extreme weather events, biodiversity loss, ecosystem collapse and critical change to Earth systems) can all be attributed to climate change. While other (economic or geopolitical) risks may appear to be more immediate to some, climate risks remain profound.

The cost of delaying climate action

We know the climate crisis hasn’t gone away. And the longer we delay, the greater the cost. The Government’s Climate Change Risk Assessment Report warns that, on our current trajectory, climate change could cost the UK economy up to £20 billion a year by 2050, while the Office for Budget Responsibility projects that unmitigated global warming could push national debt to 290% of GDP. The message is clear: inaction is far more expensive than action.

Delayed action isn’t just expensive; it increases the intensity of every other challenge we face. From health and wellbeing to economic resilience and geopolitical stability, climate action brings benefits to all aspects of society. It strengthens communities, improves health, supports safer infrastructure and offers a more stable future.

Making the case for climate action

So, how do you make the case for climate action? If the world seems polarised to you, you may be concerned that conversations about climate action may deepen divides. However, Climate Outreach’s latest research shows that most people in the UK remain concerned about climate change and want to act.

Additionally, on the corporate side, despite headlines suggesting a retreat from ESG commitments, the reality is more complex. While a small number of firms are indeed pulling back, a greater number are quietly maintaining or strengthening their climate ambitions. Neil Hawkins and Kelly Cooper’s research shows that only 8% of companies have reduced their sustainability commitments in response to political pressure, with 53% making no change, and 32% are scaling up on their efforts.

Connect climate to what matters to people

So, with people still caring about climate and corporates still investing in their ESG strategies, the challenge isn’t convincing people that it matters, but in connecting climate to their everyday realities. People’s concern for climate and nature doesn’t automatically translate into support for detailed policy. This isn’t apathy, it can often be disconnection.

While the perceived level of global cooperation may feel low, the WEF rightly points out there is ‘no option other than to find avenues for dialogue and collaboration’. Shifting climate conversations from quantitative targets and distant politics to everyday reality can help bridge divides. Instead of “your actions versus the world,” think “your actions within your community, workplace, and networks.” These are our spheres of influence. When people hear about the co-benefits of climate action that improve their communities – cleaner air, warmer homes, safer streets, thriving green spaces – they respond with enthusiasm.

Climate Outreach’s research shows that framing climate policy as an investment in local health, happiness, and nature evokes much stronger support than technical targets alone. For example:

• “The council is setting a target to reach net zero emissions by 2045.” → 50% support
• “Local climate policy that benefits people’s health and happiness, makes their area safer to live in, and protects nature, while working towards a sustainable future for the next generation.” → 78% positive response

The difference? Storytelling and vision. It’s easy to see why this is much more compelling. Ditching jargon, using plain English, and setting out benefits that people can relate to their own lives is much more effective.

As we approach COP30, let’s hope to see strong collaborative leadership. The willingness of people and businesses to act remains stronger than many might expect. The mission is now to make the conversation relevant, relatable and actionable.