Climate change demands collective effort and coordinated strategies across sectors.
Dr. Hansen, for example, is developing initiatives to reduce solo work travel and foster collaborative, sustainable projects. “Small actions might seem insignificant,” he explains, “but over time, they create a culture of sustainability, and these lay the groundwork for something bigger.”
Individual efforts are important and they must be part of a much larger, systemic shift. Whether it’s a city implementing guidelines for construction or a corporation rethinking its supply chain, leadership sets a powerful precedent.
“Climate leadership is not an optional extra.”Climate leadership is not merely an ethical choice - it is an essential skill. The world is changing. Resources are finite. Effective climate-conscious leaders need the right tools: emissions measurement, sustainable procurement practices, long-term planning. These aren’t just nice-to-haves - they are must-haves.
According to the International Finance Corporation, organisations that adopt sustainable practices are better positioned to weather regulatory changes, energy price fluctuations, and public scrutiny.
“Climate leadership is not an optional extra; it is now a core leadership skill and will help to safeguard the future of public institutions,” says Pallesen.
Citizens and consumers alike feel the urgency too. People are starting to expect their leaders to show responsibility beyond the short term, to model transparent, sustainable governance that secures a future they can actually believe in. As Hansen puts it, “Younger generations are deeply invested in sustainability, and they need to see institutions acting with authenticity to earn their trust.”
Incorporating climate leadership also allows businesses and organisations to align with global sustainability frameworks, such as the Paris Agreement and the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals – the blueprint for collective action.
CBS Master of Public Governance introduces a new Climate Management course in Spring 2025For public leaders aiming to enhance their climate management skills, the CBS Master of Public Governance will launch a Climate Management course in Spring 2025. This six-ECTS program offers essential knowledge in climate science and policy, paired with practical strategies for integrating sustainability into public governance.
The course includes five interactive sessions focused on real-world applications, allowing leaders to tackle the complex issues posed by climate change. Participants will develop skills to create climate action plans, mobilise networks, and implement sustainable practices that align with both national and global standards. Hansen describes the course as “the tip of the iceberg” in climate leadership development, adding, “It’s a way to build a network and foundation for a strategic, collaborative approach to climate action.”
Click here to learn more about the Climate Management course.