Many sub national leaders from states, cities, and provinces around the world were in Copenhagen during the UN Climate Summit. These leaders were there to encourage country leaders to reach agreement on climate change, while also seeking recognition of their own climate change actions.

While in Copenhagen Premier Selinger committed Manitoba to legislation to create a cap and trade system to reduce ghg emissions in Manitoba, based on consultations during 2010. He also signed a memorandum of understanding with South Australia to share expertise on flooding, droughts, and ecological good and services for future climate change actions.