In the summer of 2025, Brazil experienced extreme heatwaves, largely fueled by climate change patterns shaped by human activity. According to Climate Central (2025), from February 14th to 20th, 127 million people experienced excessive and unusual heat, characterized by temperatures above 100°F (38°C). Over 60 years, there has been an increase of 3°C in temperature level, reaching a level larger than the global average (WWF Brazil, 2024). The consequences have been dangerous and harmful: more dry seasons, increased floods, and an increased number of mortality cases associated with cardiovascular and respiratory conditions in low-income families and older people.
After the current climate crisis Brazil is facing, the "AdaptaCidades" plan was adopted and started to be implemented by the federal government. The policy involves supporting local municipalities to develop climate adaptation strategies, such as green-up urban communities, investing in green farming, the creation of public shelters, cooling centres, and information campaigns. However, it might be considered a solid solution and a step forward in the policy scenario, is still relatively new, having been adopted in 2024, and a target of criticism. The plan has an initial investment of R$18 million; however, it lacks financial means and technical capacities. Youth engagement can be a powerful tool to engage in climate topics and push forward debates, especially in this crisis.