Canadian Minister Guilbeault At #28for28 Campaign
We must make way for them – it’s their present and their future on the planet, says Diya Mirza
NEW DELHI, July 27 (The CONNECT) – Young people are rightfully concerned about their futures which is why it is important that their voices are heard on climate change, said Canada’s Minister of Environment and Climate Change Steven Guilbeault.
The youth’s advocacy for more climate action from governments and businesses is so important to encourage the world to go faster and further in fighting climate change, Guilbeault said during a dialogue organised by the Candian High Commission, MASH Project Foundation, and Bal Raksha Bharat (globally known as Save the Children) as part of the #28for28 campaign.
The #28for28 Campaign encourages dialogue, innovation, collaboration and mobilizes young people across India to take action on climate change. The Campaign (ahead of COP28) seeks to empower the next generation of environmental leaders and facilitate impactful changes to combat climate challenges
Guilbeault is a prominent advocate in the fight against the climate crisis. As an environment activist and a leader, he is committed to making a positive impact and building bridges to address environmental challenges. He is visiting India to join the G20 Environment and Climate Sustainability Ministers (ECSM) Meeting.
Dia Mirza, UNEP Goodwill Ambassador, “Children are my favourite people, and listening to them today not only inspires me but also gives me immense hope. We need to do all we can to ensure their voices and actions are heard, seen and celebrated. We must make way for them – it’s their present and their future on the planet.”.
14 year old Suhail from Kashmir put forth his thoughts by adding, Climate education should be made compulsory in schools so that children are informed, empowered, and committed to addressing the challenges of climate change and are able to lead action.
Naman Sonpar, a young panelist from Delhi emphasized, India’s greatest strength lies in its vast young human resource base. Empowering our youth through climate action groups and a dedicated youth council working alongside the parliament will make them a vital force for change.
A young changemaker Sarah from Lucknow shared her optimism and said, “Together we are stronger enough to fight this crisis, because if not us then who ? If not now then when ?”
“My message for the leaders is to prioritize conservation of Ecosystems and investment in Research and development. We need to protect the natural habitats that act as carbon sinks and are vital to maintaining biodiversity.” Ratna Singh from Varanasi said.
