Climate Action: From New York to Mexico – A Global Economic Focus with Leadership Opportunities for Latin America

Web Editor

October 8, 2025

a typewriter with a face drawn on it and a caption for the words opinion and a question, Edward Otho

Introduction

Climate action has solidified its position as a global economic driver, and Mexico now has the chance to lead from Latin America. New York recently experienced a historic week with Climate Week NYC 2025, organized by the Climate Group alongside the UN General Assembly. This 16th edition reached unprecedented levels, with over 1,000 official events, record government participation, and corporate mobilization confirming that climate change has transitioned from an environmental concern to a global economic transformation driver, shaping international competitiveness.

The Growth of Climate Action

This growth is not coincidental. It reflects how climate action has become a cross-sectoral force connecting energy, transportation, finance, industry, and food sectors. The climate transition is redefining business models, supply chains, and countries’ strategic positions.

Climate Group’s Role

The Climate Group has been instrumental in creating platforms to accelerate transformation. Through initiatives like RE100, EV100, and the Under2 Coalition, they have built networks of companies and governments sharing ambitious goals. RE100, for example, brings together companies committed to operating 100% with renewable energy. Its official arrival in Mexico in January 2026 presents an opportunity for the national private sector to align with international standards and lead in renewable electricity consumption.

EV100 and Under2 Coalition

EV100, as a partner of the Drive Electric campaign, aims to accelerate zero-emission mobility in the country. Currently, it is activating private fleet participation to demonstrate tangible impact on the transition to zero-emission mobility. This strategy reduces emissions and positions companies as change agents in the new climate economy.

Meanwhile, the Under2 Coalition (the largest network of subnational governments committed to climate action) reinforces the role of states and regions as key actors in implementing public policies.

Mexico’s Presence at Climate Week NYC 2025

Mexico made a strong appearance at Climate Week NYC 2025. The participation of Secretary Alicia Barcena from the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources in the opening ceremony sent a clear message of federal climate commitment. Meanwhile, the states of Querétaro, Michoacán, and Jalisco actively participated in Under2 Coalition ministerial meetings, reaffirming subnational governments’ role in climate action.

The Importance of Climate Action Spaces

New York’s experience demonstrates that events like Climate Week are crucial for unlocking critical conversations between businesses, governments, and civil society. Encouragingly, similar efforts are already underway in Mexico, such as the México por el Clima initiative, scheduled for October 8-10, 2025. Replicating these spaces in Mexico confirms that international dynamism resonates at the national level, paving the way for more robust climate action.

Mexico’s Opportunity

Mexico has the chance to turn this momentum into a turning point for accelerating the transition, provided it consolidates long-term policies that support commitments with certainty, coherence, and strategic vision.

Looking Ahead: COP30 in Brazil

Climate Week NYC 2025 serves as a reminder that time is of the essence. Those who successfully integrate climate into their economic development will lead the next decade. Mexico has a concrete opportunity to arrive at COP30 in Belém do Pará, Brazil, from November 10-21, 2025, as an ally and host country.

Assuming Leadership

Brazil’s role as a host and ally provides the perfect setting for Mexico to project clear proposals, strategic alliances, and an ambitious vision. The time to assume leadership is now.

Key Questions and Answers

  • What is Climate Week NYC 2025? It’s a global event focusing on climate action as an economic driver, with record participation from businesses, governments, and international organizations.
  • Why is Mexico’s participation significant? Mexico can lead climate action in Latin America by aligning with international standards, as demonstrated by RE100 and EV100 initiatives.
  • What role do subnational governments play in climate action? States and regions, like those in Mexico, are crucial for implementing public policies and driving change.
  • Why are climate action spaces important? These events facilitate critical conversations between various stakeholders, fostering collaboration and commitment to climate goals.
  • What opportunities does COP30 in Brazil present for Mexico? As an ally and host country, Mexico can project clear proposals and strategic alliances, positioning itself as a leader in the global climate agenda.