Climate change affects every person, everywhere. Driven by human activity, it causes rising temperatures, extreme weather, and sea level rise, threatening lives, livelihoods, and ecosystems. 

To limit global warming to 1.5°C, we must cut emissions nearly in half by 2030. But we're off track. Urgent, transformative action is needed across all sectors—from energy and transport to agriculture and finance. 

While progress is underway, current investments and commitments fall short. The time to act is now. By reducing emissions, increasing climate resilience, and investing in sustainable solutions, we can secure a livable future for all. 

Learn how to take action at un.org/en/actnow.

Fatima Zaidi is a recent graduate from DePaul University, where she successfully obtained her undergraduate degree in journalism. Currently residing in the southwest suburbs of Chicago, she is an award-winning, prolific writer who has written on a myriad of topics, including human rights, religion, lifestyle, world news, and more! Throughout the years, Zaidi's mission has always been to empower marginalized voices and represent the Muslim community on the global stage (notably in 2019 when she spoke at the White House to demand the reconstruction of heritage sites in Saudi Arabia). 

As an Ambassador for Goal 13, she aims to publish articles, research, and organize events surrounding the latest developments impacting our climate that in turn, have direct impacts on the local Chicago community. In a time where resources about our climate and its dire situation are becoming censored and many lives have been lost due to neglecting our climate, Zaidi's mission is to encourage young leaders in schools and universities to raise their voices and become activists of environmentally conscious choices that will better climate change before it is too late.

"As the 2025 UNA Chicago Global Goals Ambassador for Climate Action, I am committed to working alongside educators to elevate the voices of those advocating for our planet’s future. Illinois recently became the fifth state in the nation to mandate climate change education across public high school curricula, beginning in 2026—a timely opportunity to integrate meaningful action into classroom learning. 

In my parallel role as a Transatlantic Educator with the University of Illinois’ European Union Center, I will focus on fostering collaboration between Chicago-based and EU classrooms through climate advocacy projects. By promoting local organizations like the One Earth Collective and encouraging youth participation in citizen science through platforms like iNaturalist and Marine Debris Tracker, I aim to empower the next generation of climate leaders. 

My ultimate vision is to see a Global Goals poster in every classroom and to inspire educators and students to create organic, relevant connections between their curriculum and the broader sustainability movement."