Youths need to move on climate change
More than 500 young changemakers, from six different continents, joined a global summit on climate
Youths from a global summit have been urged to work together on climate, renewable energy and sustainable livelihoods.
Young people need to raise global awareness so that everyone realises the nature of the climate change issue, said discussants at the two-day Global Youth Climate Summit from 11-12 March – marking the golden jubilee of Bangladesh's independence.
Bangladesh Youth Leadership Centre hosted the online summit in association with the California-based Foundation for Climate Restoration, Resilient Markets and the Centre for Climate Repair at Cambridge.
More than 500 young changemakers from six different continents joined the event to launch a global youth commitment – a pledge to avert global climate catastrophe. The commitment is relevant for the youth from both developing and developed countries.
On the first day of the summit, Cambridge University Emeritus Professor Sir David King said there should be a global partnership to protect the climate.
"We need to go for reusable products and solar energy. These sectors need investments while youths can play a crucial role in awareness building," he noted.
Sir David King thinks nations need to think about their future now, and the youths can build a global platform in this regard.
Oxford University former professor Sir Christopher Ball, Foundation for Climate Restoration Founder and Chairman Emeritus Peter Fiekowsky, Youth Advocate at Cafeteria Culture Rebeca Sabnam, and Sunrise Movement Activist Marissa Saenger also spoke on the first day of the summit.
10Power Founder and CEO Sandra Kawk moderated the first session.
Bangladesh Youth Leadership Centre Founder and President Ejaj Ahmad said, "We need to change our behaviour and should not do anything that harms the environment."
"We need to be a bit more serious. Carbon emissions must be reduced, and everyone needs to work in this regard from their respective position. But, the positive thing is that young people are now very aware of climate issues," he added.
Youth Climate Strike – Earth Uprising Co-Founder Alexandria Villasenor said the youth should take the lead in raising awareness on climate, conducting awareness campaign activities and motivating people to live sustainable lives.
