Climate change is affecting Nunavut’s land, wildlife and communities through warming temperatures, melting ice and shifting ecosystems. These changes make climate action especially important across the territory.
International Day of Climate Action takes place every year on Oct. 24. It provides an opportunity to learn more about climate change, talk about what it means for our communities and take action.
To mark International Day of Climate Action, the Nunavut Climate Change Secretariat is highlighting the Joshua Ipeelie Komangapik Climate Change Champion Toolkit, a free resource designed to help Nunavummiut take climate action in their communities. Here are six ways the toolkit can help you get started.
Who is a climate change champion?
A climate change champion is anyone who helps their community understand and take action on climate change.
Climate change champions can:
- Share knowledge about reducing greenhouse gas emissions and using renewable energy.
- Help others understand and prepare for the effects of climate change.
- Support actions that help communities prepare for a changing climate.
Champions can lead by example, share information and work with others. These actions can help communities stay informed, get involved and prepare for the effects of climate change.
How can I become one?
Taking action on climate change can feel overwhelming, but you do not have to do everything at once.
Here are six ways you can get started in your community.
Educate yourself
Build your understanding of climate change, including its causes, effects and ways to respond.
Climate change knowledge comes from many sources. It is found in research and other written resources, as well as in the stories, teachings and experiences of Inuit Elders, hunters and other knowledge holders. Listen and learn from people who have observed changes on the land and in their communities firsthand.
Raise awareness
Share what you know about climate change with others. Organize a community event, start a conversation or connect with people through social media and local gatherings.
Sharing information and experiences can help more people understand climate change and take part in local action.
Lead by example
Make sustainable choices in your daily life, such as reducing waste, using energy more efficiently and supporting local environmental initiatives.
Leading by example can encourage others to make positive changes too.
Get involved in your community
Work with local organizations and take part in community projects, such as clean-ups or climate events.
Getting involved can help you connect with others in your community while taking action on climate change.
Support local initiatives
Support policies and projects in your community or region that help address climate change, such as renewable energy, waste reduction programs and more energy-efficient homes.
Build partnerships
Connect with other climate change champions, youth, Elders, educators and organizations to share ideas, knowledge and resources.
Working together can help strengthen climate action across Nunavut.
Take part in International Day of Climate Action
Looking for another way to get involved? Nunavummiut can take part in International Day of Climate Action activities in Iqaluit and across the territory.
On Saturday, Oct. 24, Iqaluit residents are invited to join the Nunavut Climate Change Secretariat for a free screening of Anthropocene: The Human Epoch from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Astro Theatre. A small drink and popcorn are included.
Outside Iqaluit, Nunavummiut can take part in a photo contest for a chance to win a CCS sweater and hat. The theme is “What does the land mean to you?” Photos showing time spent on the land are encouraged.
To enter, email your photo to climatechange@gov.nu.ca or post it on social media using #InternationalDayofClimateActionNU2026. The deadline to enter is Nov. 9, 2026.
All entries must be original photos taken by the person submitting them. AI-generated images and photos created by someone else are not eligible.
Submitted photos become the property of the Government of Nunavut and may be used in Climate Change Secretariat and Government of Nunavut educational and communications materials.
Explore the Joshua Ipeelie Komangapik Climate Change Champion Toolkit
Ready to take the next step? Explore the toolkit for information, resources and ideas to help you take climate action in your community.