Shaping Our Future: The Power of Youth in Climate Politics

Our planet is at a crossroads. Climate change is no longer a looming threat; its effects are being felt around the world, from rising sea levels to extreme weather events. Yet, there’s a flicker of hope – a generation that understands the urgency and possesses the energy to enact change: young people. The future we inherit depends on the actions we take today. This generation, with their unwavering determination and innovative thinking, is leading a global movement for environmental action. In this blog post, I aim to explore the rise of youth-led climate activism, its impact on raising awareness, and how young people are influencing policies to create a more sustainable future. As the climate crisis escalates, the significance of political engagement among young people cannot be overstated. With the power to shape the future of environmental policy through our votes, WE the youth hold immense potential to drive meaningful change.

What are some things happening with Youth-Led Climate Activism?

The rise of youth-led environmental movements, such as Fridays for Future and Extinction Rebellion, represents a seismic shift in public consciousness surrounding climate change. These movements, propelled by passionate young activists like Greta Thunberg, have captured the world’s attention and sparked a global awakening to the urgency of the climate crisis. Through mass protests, strikes, and awareness campaigns, young people are amplifying their voices and demanding immediate action from political leaders and policymakers.

The video above is a 16 year old Greta Thunberg delivering a passionate address to world leaders at the UN Climate Action Summit in New York. Greta’s journey from solo climate strike protests outside the Swedish parliament to inspiring millions worldwide exemplifies the transformative power of youth activism. Her unwavering commitment to holding world leaders accountable for their inaction on climate change has inspired a generation and catalyzed a global movement for climate justice.

Does Our Generation Even Care?

Yes! Some may even go far enough as to say that members of our generation are the ONLY ones that do care. A study surveying 10,000 people, covering 10 countries, and was published in The Lancet reported that around 70% of young people between the ages of 16 and 25 are very worried or extremely worried about the climate and the future of the planet (Hickman et al, 2021). This number was even higher in the countries surveyed in the global south, such as the Philippines where 84% of youth were extremely or very concerned, as these are the countries expected to face the worst of the consequences of climate change destruction (Buchholz, 2022).

So yes, there is evidence to show that young people are concerned and aware of the ongoing crisis that is climate change. But is this concern a driving force of young people’s political participation?

The above graphic is from the 2020 United States Pre-Election Survey conducted by the Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement, also known as CIRCLE. This pre-election poll found that 13% of young people aged 18-29 named climate change as the top issue that would influence their vote for the presidential candidate, while the 31% pictured above, named climate change within their top three issues that would have influence (Suzuki, 2022).

There is no doubt that young people are concerned about climate change, the question is whether or not young people are taking the initiative to do something about it.

But What Can We Do About It?

Great Question! While discussing major activists such as Greta Thunberg and the movements that have been orchestrated, the idea of taking action can understandably seem daunting to some. There are so many different ways that everyday people like you and I are able to take a stand and make an effort towards change.

It is a fair assessment to say that many young people feel as though we continue to be sidelined when it comes to international climate policymaking. Although opportunities for direct youth engagement and representation are available in some national delegations, many of the key influential decisions are still made behind closed doors (UCL, 2022). One of the most powerful tools at the disposal of young people is our voting power. By engaging in the electoral process and casting ballots for candidates who prioritize environmental sustainability, we are able to directly influence climate policy decisions at local, state, and national levels. 

If it’s that Easy to Make a Change, What’s the Holdup?

Well, there are also many different reasons why young people are not out voting and taking a stand. While young people represent a significant portion of the electorate, they are often underrepresented at the polls due to barriers such as voter registration requirements, lack of access to polling locations, and disengagement from the political process (Derksen et al, 2018). Therefore it is our mission as members of the generation of the future to encourage our peers and get everybody engaged! Spreading resources and education on how young people are able to take part and politically participate are major factors of this battle towards a better future.

Advocating for comprehensive climate education in schools and universities can equip young people with the scientific literacy and critical thinking skills needed to understand the complexities of the climate crisis and advocate for evidence-based policy solutions.

So What’s Next?

Look for what’s around you! There are many grassroots organizations and community initiatives available globally that provide valuable opportunities for young people to take tangible action in combating climate change, from tree planting campaigns to beach cleanups and community gardens.

If you are unable to physically take part in such activities, even being aware of the issues and spreading knowledge can play a bigger role than you may think. Sharing on social media, keeping up  to date on local and national policy, and most importantly registering to vote and be active are some of the most important, yet simple ways you are able to join the fight for our future.        There is No Planet B, so what do you say?

Are you in?

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