KLA Perspectives

NY Climate Week 2025 reminded us that the climate solutions we need aren't just theoretical - they're real, they're available, and they're working. KLA CEO Kim Lundgren was on the ground in New York last week to hear that message and to say "we're already on it." KLA has been working with 75+ local governments for the past 10 years to be solutions-forward with initiatives that have the most impact. 

KLA was proud to be part of this year's discussion, where Kim joined other thought leaders, climate solution partners, and government innovators in discussing next steps for the climate action movement. Are you interested in what our climate leaders think is the key to success? Well here's our recap:

• No more doom & gloom. It just doesn't work and it leaves our communities paralyzed with fear (which is the opposite of action). We already know our temperatures are increasing and sea levels are rising (ahh, fear incoming), but wait - we ALSO know that solutions exist and are taking place every single day. We are not motivated by the fires (well, not everyone is running into the burning house but some are and kudos to them) - but it's been decided: tone matters, and solutions are the focus. 
  
  
• The Future IS Positive. Did you know: 
  
  • 93% of all new electricity added to the US grid last year came from clean energy. (It's not just sustainable - its more efficient and a smart financial move)
  • China leads the charge in clean energy! Producing 78% of global clean energy capacity in the FIRST HALF OF 2025. I repeat - 78% of new clean energy in 2025 came from China alone (and they have more than double solar installations than the rest of the world combined).
    
  • The U.S. has opportunity to scale up clean energy (and catch up)!
  We also learned that ClimateAccess is preparing to host regular gatherings where we can come together and reflect on the messaging that is getting across to our general public and inspiring action. Stay connected with ClimateAccess to be on the in for the conversations that will guide our story telling frameworks to come.
  

• The Path Forward. It's all about mobilizing hope, as The Nature Conservancy's Chief Scientist Dr. Katharine Hayhoe shared. It was amazing to see all the women in climate science and leadership positions remind us that climate change is very real, and now we decide if we want to take part in mitigating (or fixing) at the source. It's time to respond with clarity, consistency, and compassion.

• Drive more local action! All that's left to do is act. We have the tools, we have the people, we just need to break the disconnect and DRIVE MORE ACTION. As climate leaders, it is our responsibility to mobilize our communities, equip them with the tools, and motivate everyone to get involved and consider the ways in which they can have the biggest impact - like electrifying their homes and cars. People have power, sometimes, they just need to be reminded with on-the-ground activation! 

Want to learn more? Check out these resources for driving climate action through transparent communication and commitments: Fossil Fuel Free Media and Clean Creatives.  

With disinformation on the rise, it's important to tap into our networks to create shared spaces for building trust. Here are some of the discussions Kim took part in at NY Climate Week: 

• ClimateAccess Panel
• Futerra's Solutions House
• Montgomery County Green Bank Event
• Nest Climate Campus Expo 
• New York Times Climate Forward Event

Although Kim does have superhuman powers, being in multiple places at once isn't one of them (yet). In the meantime, check out more NY Climate Week Highlights Here!

What's Next? KLA will continue to lead by example - partnering with our local governments, utilities, and communities to drive real change at the neighborhood level. We're not just talking about climate solutions. We are implementing them, too. 

Now looking forward, we do want to leave you with a positive note for your future self. Remember, this heating planet was not caused by your use of plastic straws (although, please stop using plastic straws). Rather than focusing on the wrong, the bad, and the ugly - think about the right, the good, and the beautiful solutions that exist when we take action. And maybe try writing a message to your future self to read once you have accomplished a climate milestone in your community.

There is no better time to decide you are going to take action in your community than right now. 

Your move.