What I Learned at COP30: Perspectives from Three Local Leaders at the Climate Convenings

Mayor Steve Patterson, Athens, OH

“Local leaders are steadfast in their commitment to delivering the resilience and clean energy projects that will strengthen economies and communities and improve the lives of our residents — in a manner that is affordable and equitable. It is invaluable to connect with local leaders on a global scale to share what is happening in our own cities, as well as learn how other communities are addressing common challenges.  

The commitment to local action to address climate impacts was inspiring, and reinforces my own commitment within the City of Athens, but one of the most hopeful moments from the convening was the voices and stories from young students and professionals who are leading change in their communities. As local leaders, we have a moral imperative to do what we can to provide our children and future generations with a sustainable future. 

Cities benefit when youth and young professionals are engaged in local climate action, and the expansion of the Bloomberg Philanthropies Youth Climate Action Fund is an opportunity to growth this effort.”

Councilmember Laura Dent, Harrisonburg, VA

“I was thrilled to attend COP30 in Belem! Officially, I was part of the Ukraine delegation, sponsored by Elected Officials to Protect America (EOPA), a coalition of military veterans, state and local officials, climate activists and Ukrainians, for whom EOPA directs the Ukraine Clean Energy Marshall Plan. As the (unofficial) Ambassador for NLC, I carried the message that American cities, towns and villages are taking bold action to combat climate change. I offered Harrisonburg as an example of forward-thinking leadership with our solar farm, battery energy storage and climate goals to reach carbon neutral by 2050. 

I had the opportunity to practice citizen diplomacy nation-to-nation with representatives from local, state and national governments. In a U.S.-Brazil meeting, I participated in a frank discussion on how our respective countries have responded to an unsettled geopolitical landscape. With Mexican parliamentarians, I offered my hopes that the U.S. and Mexico will soon return to mutual support on climate. A group of German observers commented that I actually had more ‘agency’ interacting with global leaders than I would have if the U.S. had sent its delegation. Everyone I talked with greatly appreciated the message that Americans care about climate and local leadership is stepping up to the challenge.”

Nylah Oliver, Sustainability Director, Savannah, GA

“U.S. representation at COP30 reinforced the urgency, and opportunity, for municipalities to accelerate community-driven climate action. The reality is that cities are where climate action meets daily life, and our residents expect results. Meeting with global peers to discuss adaptation, mitigation and nature-based solutions allowed me to view our local climate priorities and global urgencies on the same scale. At the City of Savannah, we are especially focused on stormwater management, energy burden reduction and extreme heat — each being matters of global concern — welcoming increased diversity of thought into each meeting and workshop. 

One of my greatest takeaways was the power that subnational leadership wields to drive momentum. Savannah is committed to advancing solutions that meet residents where they are, and COP30 deepened that commitment. 

In the coming year, we look forward to expanding our 100 percent Savannah Plan with a renewed emphasis on the built environment, clean transportation, community-centered initiatives and nature-based solutions. Our aim is to ensure that our efforts are not only measurable, but are meaningfully felt by the communities we serve.”