Addressing climate change demands rigorous, well-crafted policies that can effectively tackle the complex and pressing environmental challenges we face today. To do that, we’ve looked to inspiration from around the world for climate change policy that makes a difference—discovering what works and how to apply it to our own strategies.

This article delves into the specific features, implementation strategies, and outcomes of countries leading in climate change policy, offering lessons that can inform and inspire further action in the global effort to combat climate change.

Effective Climate Change Policy from Around the World

The Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI) 2024 rankings provide valuable insights into the countries making significant strides in climate change policy. The CCPI evaluates countries based on their performance in four categories:

• Emissions
• Renewable energy
• Energy use
• Climate policy

Denmark, Estonia, and the Philippines are highlighted in the 2024 CCPI rankings for their notable climate change policies. Each of these countries has developed unique strategies to address climate challenges, demonstrating innovative approaches and ambitious targets. Their different approaches to climate change policy represent diverse yet impactful methods for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing climate resilience.

However, this multifaceted ranking system notes that no country has yet achieved a very high rating overall, leaving the first three positions of the rankings empty—a reflection of the desperate the need for intensified global efforts to prevent hazardous climate change.

By examining these leading climate change policies, we can gain valuable insights into the essential components of effective climate change strategies.

Denmark: Leading with Ambition

Denmark’s Climate Act, introduced in 2020, represents one of the most ambitious climate policies globally. The Act “sets a target to reduce Denmark’s emissions by 70% in 2030 compared to 1990 levels and climate neutrality by 2050.”

It establishes a rolling five-year target, ensuring a decade-long vision for greenhouse gas emissions reductions. The act also mandates an annual parliamentary review of the government’s climate actions and requires detailed reporting on how these actions impact Danish imports and consumption.

The key to Denmark’s approach is its strengthened climate council, which now operates with doubled funds and enhanced independence. This council is responsible for evaluating the government’s progress and ensuring that Denmark remains a global leader in climate policy.

Additionally, the act requires the government to produce a global strategy outlining how its foreign and trade policies support international climate efforts. This framework sets high targets and ensures accountability and transparency in meeting them.

Estonia: Integrating Comprehensive Strategies

Estonia’s National Energy and Climate Plan (NECP) 2030 outlines a robust framework for addressing climate change and energy challenges. The plan aims for an 80% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, with a 70% reduction target set for 2030. It also includes other specific targets, such as reducing primary energy consumption by up to 14% and increasing the share of renewable energy to at least 42% by 2030.

The NECP brings together targets from various national strategies, including energy, climate adaptation, and waste management plans. It also emphasizes the use of research and innovation to maintain economic competitiveness while achieving climate goals.

The plan’s integration of multiple sectoral policies ensures a holistic approach to climate and energy challenges, addressing both emission reductions and energy security.

Philippines: Addressing Vulnerability through Actionable Planning

In response to its significant vulnerability to climate change impacts, the Philippines enacted the Climate Change Act (Republic Act 9729) to provide a structured approach to managing climate risks. The Act established the Climate Change Commission, which oversees the formulation and implementation of the National Climate Change Action Plan (NCCAP).

The NCCAP focuses on key areas, such as:

• Food security
• Water sufficiency
• Ecological and environmental stability

It also prioritizes integrating climate risk reduction into development plans and enhancing local capacity to address climate impacts.

The plan’s strategic direction emphasizes climate-smart industries and sustainable energy, aiming to build resilience against climate change effects and promote long-term sustainability.

Keys to Effective Climate Change Policy

Examining the climate policies of Denmark, Estonia, and the Philippines reveals several common themes found across successful climate change strategies:

• Essential Policy Features: Effective policies typically feature ambitious targets, comprehensive frameworks, and mechanisms for accountability and transparency.
  
  
• Aligned Goals: Each country’s approach highlights the importance of integrating climate goals across various sectors and ensuring that local and national efforts are aligned with global climate objectives.

• Community Engagement: These policies also demonstrate the critical role of engaging with diverse stakeholders, including local communities, to develop inclusive and effective climate strategies.

By understanding these global lessons, we can better design and implement climate change policies that address both local and global challenges.

Conclusion

Effective climate change policies are crucial for addressing global environmental challenges. As proven by the countries above, well-designed policies can drive substantial progress in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and building resilience. These climate change policies from around the world highlight the importance of ambitious targets, integrated approaches, and inclusive strategies to tackle climate change effectively.

Antioch University recognizes the critical role of climate change education in fostering effective advocacy and action. Through our Certificate in Climate Change Education, offered both online and in person at our New England campus, students are equipped with the knowledge and skills to address one of the most pressing climate threats to our future. This program integrates empirical scientific data to prepare educators and advocates to raise awareness and drive change.

Moreover, Antioch’s Center for Climate Preparedness and Community Resilience supports this mission by delivering applied research, consulting, and training focused on climate resilience. With a solutions-oriented, inclusive approach, the Center emphasizes stakeholder capacity building and practical application of research to develop effective local strategies.

As we face ongoing environmental challenges, these efforts contribute to a more resilient and sustainable future, aligning with our commitment to advance climate change education and action.