Abstract
Climate change is an issue that demands action and cooperation from a range of stakeholders. Among the most significant solutions are RES (Renewable Energy Sources) and energy efficiency, including thermal insulation of buildings. Local governments are instrumental in this regard, as they oversee pivotal services that cater to the populace and further bolster favourable initiatives by business entities and individuals. The available literature on the subject is inconclusive, but there is a paucity of research on the role of small- and medium-sized towns (i.e. settlements with a population of up to 100,000 inhabitants) in climate change mitigation. The objective of this research is to evaluate the mitigation efforts of Polish towns in response to climate change and to identify the factors influencing these activities. This study utilised surveys administered to local government representatives (n = 101) to ascertain the correlation between various factors and the establishment of more ambitious targets for renewable energy (RES) development and improving energy efficiency. These include assistance from higher (regional or national) authorities (Pearson's r=0.2950) and participation of the town representatives in seminars and workshops (r=0.3055). The correlation between action for energy efficiency and the approach of higher authorities regarding energy efficiency is significant (r=0.5239). It is hypothesised that an increase in governance standards and financial support from higher levels of government may serve as a catalyst for enhanced climate action, leading to more successful outcomes.