Green skills for young people will be essential for a sustainable world

As the world embarks on the green transition, the transition to an environmentally sustainable and climate-friendly world is essential not only to responding to the global climate crisis, but also to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Future skills

Although green skills are suitable for people of all ages, they are of greater interest to young people, who can contribute to the environmental transition over a longer period. In fact, half of our planet’s population is 30 years old or younger, and that number is expected to reach 57% by the end of 2030.

“He calls on young people to take faster and bolder action, to show solidarity with the most vulnerable, and to devise solutions to achieve social, economic and climate justice, as well as peace and prosperity for all,” said the UN Secretary-General. Antonio GuterresIn his message on the occasion of the day.

I insist that this year’s theme “Green Skills for Youth” reminds us of the importance of ensuring that young people learn skills in a growing green economy, and can use them.

He added, “Whether it is innovative sustainable technologies, renewable energy, or revolutions in transport systems and industrial activity, skills and knowledge must be made available to young people.” “They will help shape a cleaner, greener future that is more climate resilient.”

Working with and for young people

As contemporary challenges weigh heavily on future generations, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) (UNESCOFor her part, said Audrey Azoulay, General Manager ofUNESCO.

While less than one in two young people rate their mental health as satisfactory, UNESCO works with its Member States to support young people.

“Thus, young people are at the heart of our education work. We are moving to protect it, especially in the face of the consequences of the Covid-19 pandemic, but also to rethink it.” “But we are not only working for young people, we are also working with them,” she insisted.

In the face of the environmental emergency and growing inequality, to stand up for gender equality and human rights, young people are once again on the front lines, according to the head of UNESCO.

“Whether it is the dynamism of young researchers in all fields of science, or the commitment of young people to heritage service or to biosphere reserves, their mobilization against racism and discrimination, UNESCO places the questioning, creativity and innovative power of young people at the heart of its programs and thinking,” she said.

On the occasion of International Youth Day, UNESCO calls on “all our societies to mobilize to support young people and to listen to their voices. Because by giving young people the means to shape their dreams we will create a better future for all.”

For António Guterres, “Humanity depends on the unparalleled energy, creativity and contributions of young people around the world. Today and every day, let us support young people and stand with them in building a just and sustainable world, for people and for the planet.”

© UNICEF / Howard Elwyn-Jones

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Celebrating #YouthAhead

For its part, the Office of the Special Envoy of the Secretary-General on Youth launched a campaign that highlights the resilience, wisdom and leadership of young people in creating a better world for all.

With the motto “Celebrating the #YouthLead Ways as Agents of Change for the Global Goals,” the office will entrust its digital channels (social media, website, email) to a different young person each day throughout August, showcasing the myriad ways young people can. Contribute to achieving sustainable development goals around the world.

With the 2030 Agenda halfway through, youth undoubtedly remain one of our greatest hopes for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, and ensuring that no one is left behind.