Governments play a crucial role in combating climate change by setting policies, regulations, and frameworks that drive large-scale action and societal change. Key roles include:

1. Legislation and Regulation: Governments can establish laws to limit greenhouse gas emissions, enforce environmental standards, and regulate industrial practices. Policies like emissions trading systems or carbon taxes incentivize reductions in carbon output.

2. Renewable Energy Promotion: They can support the transition to renewable energy by providing subsidies, tax incentives, and funding for research and development. Establishing renewable energy targets and investing in infrastructure also drives adoption.

3. Climate Adaptation and Resilience: Governments can implement policies to enhance infrastructure resilience, such as flood defenses and heatwave strategies. They can also support communities in adapting to climate impacts through funding and guidance.

4. International Agreements: Participation in global agreements like the Paris Agreement ensures national commitments to emission reductions and climate goals. Governments play a key role in negotiating and upholding these agreements.

5. Public Awareness and Education: Governments can promote climate education and awareness campaigns to encourage sustainable practices among citizens and businesses.

By enacting these policies, governments create a framework that drives collective efforts to mitigate and adapt to climate change.