In 2026, communities around the world are facing a common set of challenges: rising energy costs, worsening extreme heat, and growing pressure to deliver practical solutions that improve people's daily lives.
During London Climate Action Week, the Center for American Progress and the Labour Climate and Environment Forum will bring together local leaders, policymakers, and practitioners to examine how cities, states, regions, and other subnational governments are responding to these global challenges.
Climate Action, Shared Solutions: Local Leadership on Energy Affordability and Extreme Heat plans to feature local leaders in a conversation focused on practical lessons, real-world examples, and actionable policy solutions that are helping communities thrive in a changing world. Mayor Barbara Buffaloe of Columbia, Missouri, and Kate Wright, the executive director of Climate Mayors, are confirmed to participate, with additional speakers to be announced.
Topics will include:
● Improving energy affordability and reducing household costs
● Protecting residents from extreme heat and other climate impacts
● Strengthening public health and community resilience
● Delivering measurable benefits while building public support for climate action
By bringing together leaders from different perspectives, the discussion aims to identify shared challenges, highlight effective solutions, and foster greater collaboration.
Final details are subject to change. For more information, please contact Frederick Bell at fbell@americanprogress.org.
The Center for American Progress welcomes conversations with mayors, local and regional officials, practitioners, and organizations interested in participating during London Climate Action Week 2026.
Doors open at 9:30 a.m. BST
