World Children's Day injects creativity in climate action

In response to the negative impacts of climate change, young people have been taking action, from their classrooms to the global stage. The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), in collaboration with two centers attached to the Ministry of Ecology and Environment and the Chinese Meteorological Society, hosted a climate-themed event to mark World Children's Day in Beijing on Thursday.

The event marked the culmination of a six-month-long youth climate campaign under the theme of "Step Up for Climate". Gong Yifan and Chang Yunge, two 17-year-old finalists of the campaign, shared their experience of presenting innovative solutions for climate action at the 30th United Nations climate change conference, known as COP30, in Belem, Brazil. They were part of the Chinese delegation to the conference.

Jiao Meiyan, deputy chair of the Chinese Meteorological Society, said the society has been dedicated to actively combating climate change for many years. She said she noted that young people represent the future and hope of the country, and are a vital force in the fight against climate change. She pledged to continue supporting the dissemination of climate science and to contribute to ongoing efforts in addressing climate change.

Amakobe Sande, the UNICEF representative to China, emphasized that climate change is not merely an environmental issue but a crisis threatening child rights. She commended young people for taking the initiative rather than waiting for help, transforming classrooms into climate labs and demonstrating to the world that they are the architects of climate solutions.

Chen Yuxi, a world diving gold medalist who attended the event, urged both the young and adults to make small changes in their daily lives to help save the planet.

The event also highlighted a partnership between UNICEF and the Ministry of Education to incorporate green skills into technical and vocational education and training colleges across China, including Beijing Polytechnic University and Hainan Technician College. The initiative provides young people with the expertise and skills necessary to succeed in the green economy and to develop innovative climate solutions within their communities.

With support from UNICEF, 48 cities and counties in China, along with over 30 UNICEF program schools, have engaged children and youth in creating and showcasing environmentally friendly artworks and crafts using recyclable materials. These activities aim to raise public awareness about the impact of climate change on young people and to amplify youth voices in climate action.