INTRODUCTION: Type 2 diabetes and climate change are forefront global challenges of the 21st century. Both are on a progressive incline with intergenerational effects on the wellbeing, health and security of the population. The aim of this review was to explore the interconnection relationship between type 2 diabetes and climate change. METHODS: A literature review search of MEDLINE publications from 2010 to March 2020 was performed. English-language articles using terms "diabetes" AND "climate change" OR "temperature change" OR "temperature rise" OR "hot temperature" OR "extreme heat" were reviewed. RESULTS: Climate change and diabetes are interconnected through a direct and indirect pathway. Temperature changes can trigger a person's susceptibility to develop diabetes as well as impose adverse effects on those diagnosed with diabetes (such as increased incidence of hospitalization, dehydration and mortality). Both temperature extremes have been reported to lead to negative effects on diabetes. Concurrently, both phenomena have shared predisposing vectors (such as sedentary lifestyle, urbanisation, unhealthy diets) that lead to their progressive development. CONCLUSION: A bidirectional relationship exists between type 2 diabetes and climate change. This relationship originates through a multifactorial pathway involving biological, social, environmental, geophysical and economic factors. An integrated action plan targeting the common predisposing vectors should be set up. This should support a low environmental impact while promoting equity and wellbeing.