The UN Climate–SDG Synergies resource is an online platform presenting reports, events and analytical outputs on integrating climate action with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Its main purpose is to support coordinated policy and investment approaches. Finance professionals may find it relevant for understanding efficiency gains, co-benefits and capital allocation across climate and development priorities.
Organisation behind the resource
The resource is developed and maintained by the United Nations, primarily through the Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA) in collaboration with the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). It draws on work from an independent Expert Group on Climate and SDG Synergies and associated UN partnerships.
What the resource does
- Provides access to global reports, including the “Global Report on Climate and SDG Synergies”, which quantifies benefits of integrated approaches.
- Presents evidence on how climate and SDG actions interact, including co-benefits and trade-offs across sectors.
- Shares outcomes from conferences, policy dialogues and UN events focused on implementation pathways.
- Highlights sectoral entry points and cross-sector strategies for national planning and policy alignment.
- Includes thematic reports and case-based insights on areas such as nature, health and infrastructure.
Target audience
The primary audience includes policymakers, government agencies and international organisations involved in climate and development planning.
Secondary users include:
- Finance professionals and investors
- Researchers and analysts
- Development practitioners and multilateral institutions
Relevance to finance professionals
Risk assessment – Supports understanding of systemic climate and development risks and how interconnected crises affect economic stability and public expenditure.
ESG analysis – Provides integrated environmental and social insights, showing how climate action links with broader sustainability outcomes across SDGs.
Market/commodity insights – Identifies sectoral pathways (e.g. energy, urban systems, nature) where coordinated action can deliver measurable benefits and efficiencies.
Investment context – Demonstrates that aligned climate–SDG strategies can improve efficiency (e.g. up to ~37% gains) and reduce duplication, helping direct capital more effectively.
Overall, the resource provides an evidence base for integrating climate and sustainable development considerations into financial decision-making, particularly in public finance, infrastructure investment and sustainable capital allocation.
