Multifarious challenges confronting the world are complex and interconnected, necessitating collective action. The most recent report on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) reveals that only 14 per cent of the 169 targets are progressing as planned, while 20 per cent aren’t even being tracked. To advance sustainable development and climate solutions, all actors need to step up relentless efforts and building alliances is the key.

The 24th edition of the World Sustainable Development Summit (WSDS) will focus on the pivotal role of partnerships in catalysing transformative action and advancing global sustainability objectives. Under the theme ‘Partnerships for Accelerating Sustainable Development and Climate Solutions’, WSDS 2025 will be held from March 5–7, 2025, aiming to provide a platform for global leaders, thinkers and research fraternity to engage in a collective discourse and knowledge exchange. The Summit will aim to outline a clear pathway to strengthen partnerships among governments, businesses, civil society, and other key stakeholders around the shared purpose of designing sustainable solutions—driving meaningful change and lasting impact.

The cover story in this Special Issue of TerraGreen and other articles place emphasis on partnerships for accelerating sustainable development and climate solutions. Partnerships are vital for speeding up progress, promoting shared responsibility, and innovative solutions. By combining resources and expertise, partnerships can turn adversities into opportunities and generate tangible outcomes to tackle global challenges.

This special edition of TerraGreen covers a wide range of themes including but not limited to Just Energy transition, green job opportunities, SDGs, climate action in India, agroecology, energy efficiency, climate finance and carbon market, gender-responsive climate budgeting, sustainable agriculture, sustainable development, and COP29. The articles showcase results from in-depth research and provide insights to drive action and design futuristic strategies. Some of the opinion pieces are portrayed in the form of ‘innovation showcase’ that include any innovative initiative, or technology that organizations in the sustainability sphere are testifying/implementing/promoting. Such narratives and practices may trigger further collaborative research, informed decision-making and timely action. A wide range of contributions from various authors that make robust, informative, and well-analysed propositions will go a long way in fostering climate adaptation strategy and building resilience while safeguarding our biodiversity and the ecosystems.

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