Climate change threatens communities, livelihoods, and ecosystems. But just as critically, it puts stress on the systems we rely on to respond—our governments, institutions, and civic processes. When those systems are weakened by distrust, polarization, or exclusion, we lose the ability to take meaningful action. In other words: climate action needs a healthy democracy. And a healthy democracy requires climate stability.
Climate impacts weaken public trust – As climate disasters escalate and gaps in response widen, people lose faith in systems that are supposed to keep them safe.
Weakened democracies fail to respond – When policy making is driven by gridlock, elite interests, or misinformation, communities are left without the tools to prepare for or adapt to climate realities.
Communities are left out of decisions that shape their future - Particularly in rural and historically marginalized areas, people face barriers to participating in environmental planning. This leads to decisions made without those most affected.
Recent studies reinforce what communities have long felt:
This isn’t just theory, it’s a growing body of evidence that the climate crisis is also a governance crisis.
We’re living in a time of disruption, but also possibility.
Historic investments in clean energy, infrastructure, and resilience are creating new openings for local leadership.
Communities, especially rural and marginalized ones, are stepping up to demand a voice in how those dollars are spent.
Young people are reimagining democracy from the ground up, while new coalitions are forming across lines of political, social, and cultural difference.
At CDI, we’re helping turn that momentum into lasting change by supporting local leadership, rebuilding trust in civic systems, and making climate planning more inclusive and responsive.
Our vision is a world where bold climate action and vibrant democracy work together to create resilient communities, rebuild social trust, and secure a thriving future for all.
Our mission is to jumpstart society’s response to the intertwined crises of climate change and democratic decline by transforming narratives and empowering communities through education, collaboration, and action.
When communities and leaders view climate solutions through an evolved democracy, they can create systems that are more inclusive, equitable, and responsive. We aim to transform narratives, enhance civic engagement, and build local power to create a representative climate movement.