1. to increase the intensity, pace, or amount of work or energy devoted to achieving something
The government decided to step up efforts to combat climate change.
O governo decidiu intensificar esforços para combater as mudanças climáticas.
2. to make greater attempts or exert more energy towards a goal
We need to step up efforts to meet the deadline.
Precisamos intensificar esforços para cumprir o prazo.