PLANET Atom’s Futures
Sustainable Futures or Broken Promises ? A Youth Perspective on Global Environmental Governance
In the 21st century, the world is facing a critical challenge – environmental degradation. Climate change, deforestation, pollution, and loss of biodiversity are just a few of the pressing issues that threaten the health of our planet and the well-being of future generations. In response to these challenges, global environmental governance has emerged as a crucial framework for coordinating international efforts to address environmental issues. However, as young people who will inherit the consequences of current decisions, we are left wondering: are we on track towards a sustainable future, or are we facing broken promises?
The United Nations has played a central role in promoting global environmental governance through various international agreements and conventions. The Paris Agreement, signed in 2015, is a landmark example of collaborative action to combat climate change. However, despite the ambitious goals set forth in the agreement, many countries have failed to meet their targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The recent Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report highlights the urgent need for drastic action to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius. As young people, we are deeply concerned about the lack of political will and accountability in achieving these targets.
Moreover, the issue of environmental justice is often overlooked in global environmental governance. Indigenous communities, marginalized populations, and developing countries bear the brunt of environmental degradation, despite being the least responsible for causing it. The concept of “Common but Differentiated Responsibilities” (CBDR) has been enshrined in international agreements to address this disparity, but implementation has been fraught with challenges. As young people, we believe that true sustainability cannot be achieved without addressing these inequalities and ensuring that all voices are heard in decision-making processes.
One of the key pillars of global environmental governance is the principle of intergenerational equity – the idea that current generations should not compromise the ability of future generations to meet their needs. However, many young people feel that their voices are not adequately represented in environmental decision-making processes. The youth-led climate strikes and movements around the world are a testament to the growing frustration and anger among young people who feel that their futures are being sacrificed for short-term economic gains. As young people, we demand a seat at the table and a say in shaping our sustainable future.
In order to build a truly sustainable future, global environmental governance must be reformed to be more inclusive, transparent, and accountable. Youth participation in decision-making processes must be actively promoted and supported. Education and awareness-raising about environmental issues should be prioritized in order to empower young people to become active agents of change. Investments in green technologies, renewable energy, and sustainable practices must be accelerated to transition towards a low-carbon economy. The private sector, civil society, and governments must work together in partnership to drive sustainable development and protect our planet for future generations.
As young people, we are the stewards of tomorrow. We have a responsibility to hold our leaders accountable and demand action on environmental issues. The time for empty promises and half-hearted commitments is over. It is time for bold and decisive action to secure a sustainable future for all. Let us rise up, raise our voices, and work together to create a world where future generations can thrive in harmony with nature.
By: Ankurjyoti Hatimuria
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