UAE Pavilion At COP29 Highlights Youth Role In Climate Action And Sustainable Agriculture Systems

At COP29, the UAE Pavilion hosted discussions on climate action in food and agriculture, highlighting the need for youth involvement. Participants stressed that linking climate action with food systems is crucial and requires dialogues focused on agriculture. These discussions will continue during Global Food Security Week in Abu Dhabi from November 26 to 28, where local and international partners will address food security and sustainable food systems.

Dr. Farid Gayibov, Azerbaijan’s Minister of Youth and Sport, opened a session titled 'Empowering Youth for Climate Action: Ambitions, Careers, and Global Impact'. He shared how Azerbaijan established "Youth Day" nationally before it became a UN thematic day. "We have more than 300 youth organizations in the country and are trying to organize youth capital to support youth engagement initiatives across different parts of Azerbaijan," he said.

Pedro Sereno, a Future Sustainability Leader at Y4S, explained his role involves identifying innovative projects within his company and exploring funding options with the European Commission. This approach aims to integrate sustainability into business practices effectively.

Toby Thorpe, a Zayed Sustainability Prize winner and Youth Ambassador, discussed his use of prize funds to establish a local sustainability center. This center gathers global participants to discuss critical sustainability issues. The "Climate Leaders Program" now collaborates with over 95,000 young people worldwide to foster improved climate leadership. "Have a leadership style that inspires and brings other young people along with you on the journey," he said.

The day's events concluded with a session on Circular Economy and Waste Reduction at NYU Abu Dhabi. This session highlighted youth-led innovations in circular economy practices and waste reduction efforts, especially in developing regions. It also shared best practices from zero-waste campuses and cities.

The discussions at COP29 underscored the importance of integrating youth perspectives into climate strategies for food systems. By involving young leaders in these conversations, there is potential for innovative solutions that address both climate change and food security challenges effectively.

With inputs from WAM