Young researchers and specialists in climate action stressed that young people around the world can play a pivotal role in decision-making and public environmental policies.
The engagement of youth in climate issues would contribute effectively to the efforts of reducing the impact of climate change. Young people have the tools and intellectual skills to deliver in this respect.
The insights were expressed in a panel discussion held by Trends Research and Advisory in partnership with the Arab Youth Centre at the COP28 Media Centre – Green Zone in Expo City Dubai.
The panel discussion entitled: “Youth Climate Mobility as a Catalyst for Climate Action” was an interactive platform for young people to express their opinions, ideas and insights on the global policy-making process to combat climate change.
Butti Al Muhairi, Chairman of the Arab Youth Council for Climate Change, analyst at the Office of Strategic Affairs and Next Generation Climate Fellow at the United Nations; Sultan Majid Al Ali, Director of
Global Barometer at TRENDS; Maissam El Kouche, Director of Sustainability at Majid Al Futtaim and member of the Arab Youth Council for Climate Change; and Mariam Al Jeneibi, Researcher and opinion polls specialist at TRENDS, participated in the panel discussion.
The panellists discussed the impact of youth in real-world environmental decision-making and public policies, as well as possible ways to improve the capacity of climate activism and environmental commitment for youth.
They stressed the need to enhance the effectiveness of teaching environmental sciences to children. They agreed on the necessity of motivating, empowering and mobilising a new generation to work on climate change.
The discussion reviewed the results of the study “Arab Youth Awareness of Climate”, prepared by the Arab Youth Centre in partnership with TRENDS Research and Advisory.
The study monitored the extent of Arab youth’s awareness of climate change, its causes and potential consequences, and their motivations to participate in c
limate action.
The study results revealed that 46% of the participants stressed the need for training in climate change issues, and an equal percentage sought to develop skills in campaigning, organising and communication. 45% of the respondents expressed the need for opportunities to connect with active young people in the field of climate action, while 43% highlighted the need for more information on climate change.
The results showed the need to enhance youth participation in climate action through raising awareness, organisational and institutional support, education and training.
The participants stressed that education enhances environmental and climate awareness at an early age. This is necessary for building a generation capable of delivering real change in combating climate change. The panellists called for integrating climate education into basic education programmes and encouraging students from a young age to interact with nature. Students should be given practical lessons on how to care for an
d preserve nature and the environment.
The participants also stressed that young people need to be more involved in climate action through training on how to engage in climate change issues.
On youth empowerment, the panellists suggested facilitating youth-led policies to provide more meaningful participation opportunities, promote inclusive climate action initiatives and expand investment in the future.
The discussion called for allocating adequate resources to universities and research centres, which ensures access to objective scientific information, helps build region-specific climate policies and promotes a sustainable future for all.
Source: Emirates News Agency