This editorial introduces the “Holocene palaeoclimate” special collection, which examines the intricate relationship between human activities and climate systems throughout the Holocene. The collection highlights the significance of palaeoclimatic reconstructions, providing insights into past climate variability and extremes. By integrating multidisciplinary research from diverse regions, including the Siberian Arctic, Singapore, the Iberian Peninsula, Bavaria, and Madagascar, the collection elucidates the global and regional climate dynamics that shaped historical and contemporary environments. These studies underscore the value of understanding past climates to better predict future climate behaviour and develop strategies to mitigate the impacts of ongoing global warming. The findings offer a long-term perspective on climate trends, contributing to more informed and resilient approaches to addressing contemporary climate challenges.