On November 21st, 2024, UI GreenMetric continued its efforts to promote sustainable practices by hosting an insightful Instagram Live discussion on the theme “Youth on the Frontlines: Driving the Climate Change Movement.” The event featured passionate young individuals, including Samintang, President of Climate Catalyst; Adventhius Immanuel Karo Karo, SDGs Campus Ambassador from Universitas Indonesia; La Mardani Putra, an alumnus and winner of NSLSM 2023 from UIN Raden Fatah Palembang; and was moderated by Rayhana, a Partnership Specialist at UI GreenMetric. The discussion was rich with valuable insights as the speakers shared concrete steps for youth to contribute and collaborate in achieving a sustainable future.
The discussion began with the role of youth in addressing the ongoing climate crisis. According to Samintang, the role of youth in tackling the current climate crisis is crucial. He pointed out that two-thirds of Indonesia’s population is made up of young people, making them a dominant demographic. This presents an opportunity for youth to unite as key players in raising awareness and taking action on climate issues. Youth movements often begin at the grassroots level, working closely with local communities to empower them with knowledge about climate challenges, particularly for those most affected. These movements operate across various levels, from local to global, with each contributing significantly to the broader fight against the climate crisis.
Immanuel then highlighted that youth carry a double burden in the fight against climate change. On one hand, they are beneficiaries of efforts to address the crisis, but on the other, they also bear the responsibility of driving meaningful impact. He broke this role down into three main functions. First, youth act as initiators and drivers of change, taking concrete actions to address climate challenges. Second, they serve as advocates, providing recommendations to governments and pushing for sustained commitment to sustainable development goals. Without strong governmental alignment, the impact of youth-led initiatives can become limited. Third, youth are the recipients of the benefits that arise from these collective efforts, making their involvement even more essential. Lamar added that young people are the core of a civilization and act as agents of change. Their innovative ideas and energetic nature allow them to empower communities and create positive societal transformations.
The discussion also explored practical ways youth can contribute to the climate movement. Starting with Immanuel, he emphasized the importance of education, particularly in fostering behavioral changes as people become more aware of environmental issues. He suggested targeting groups that are not typically exposed to environmental discussions, such as anime or motorcycle communities, to broaden the reach of climate awareness. He also stressed the need to understand local contexts by actively listening to the specific challenges faced in different regions. For young people, he recommended joining organizations or communities that work closely with the government to actively participate in creating policies that promote sustainability. Lamar proposed that, as outlined in the Paris Agreement, climate crisis mitigation efforts must include research and development. He noted that findings from research can help reduce the severity of climate impacts. Additionally, he highlighted the importance of early education, ensuring that environmental issues become an integral part of children’s lives, helping them develop habits and values that consider their environmental impact.
Sam also suggested that contributing to climate solutions doesn’t have to start with grand actions. Small, actionable steps can make a significant difference over time. She reminded everyone that everyone is equally vulnerable to the effects of the climate crisis, which makes it crucial for all to participate in mitigating it. Simple daily habits, such as carrying reusable containers and tumblers, reducing the use of single-use plastics, and opting for thrifted clothes instead of buying new ones, can collectively contribute to reducing the impact of the climate crisis.
The discussion underscored the vital role youth play in addressing climate change and emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts at all levels. By taking proactive steps, whether through education, advocacy, research, or small individual actions, young people can significantly contribute to building a sustainable future. Together, these efforts can create a powerful collective movement capable of tackling the climate crisis and creating a more sustainable future.
Written by Salsabila D. Rahmiziri - Communication Intern
Editor: Riska P. Hariyadi
