When evidence and policy are not enough – Communication strategies to accelerate action

In many cases, the policies, evidence, and authority to act on climate change already exist. Yet action often moves far more slowly than it could. This session explores why decisions stall even when the mandate to act is present, and how communication can help decision-makers move faster by reducing perceived risks and uncertainties.

Using housing as a central example, the session will examine how ambitious policy commitments, such as accelerating the delivery of affordable and climate-resilient housing, often face hesitation once they enter real political and institutional processes. Short examples will illustrate moments where major shifts happened unexpectedly quickly, and what allowed decision-makers to move forward despite perceived risks.

Through interactive exercises and discussion, participants will then reflect on where similar dynamics appear in climate and housing decisions in their own contexts. They will map where projects slow down and identify the moments where communication can help build the confidence needed for decisions to move forward.