A dynamic 7-member youth delegation of the Indian Youth Climate Network,  made a significant impact at the 28th UN Climate Change Conference – Conference of the Parties (COP28) in Dubai. Comprising individuals from diverse backgrounds including policy, engineering, mathematics, communications and social science, the delegation exemplified the unwavering commitment of Indian youth towards a youth-led climate-resilient development. IYCN co-hosted Climate Action Forum in partnership with Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW), Dasra, and India Climate Collaborative. Climate Action Forum was an exceptional gathering of Indian Diaspora leaders, innovators, policymakers, and influencers, all dedicated to advancing sustainable solutions and advocating a greener future. Mr. Ankit Singh (National Coordinator, IYCN) noted the contributions of youth who are at the forefront of adopting new technologies to address environmental challenges. Mr. Singh shared insights about the willingness of youth from diverse backgrounds to learn from each other, sharing experiences to further educate their peers about the Global Climate Policy Dialogue. 

IYCN also co-hosted side event with Climate Action Network South Asia (CANSA) on Enabling Just Energy Transition in South Asia – Challenges and Transformational Opportunities for Youth. Ms. Srishti Singh, (Board Member, IYCN) emphasised the pivotal role of youth in the transition to a just energy transition. The innovative ideas and skill sets of youth can be instrumental in formulating effective means towards a sustainable and equitable energy transition, she said.

The delegation had a fruitful dialogue with the Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Shri Bhupender Yadav. Mr. Ankit Singh, National Coordinator (IYCN), shared the achievements and impact of the “Agents of Change – Youth Empowerment towards Circular Economy & Resource Efficiency (CE & RE)” a project implemented by IYCN in 2023. This project was supported by EU-REI (with the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) as the key nodal ministry), and demonstrated the proactive involvement of Indian youth in addressing circular economy challenges.

IYCN with Shri Bhupender Yadav

Mr. Singh shared reflections and outcomes from the Zero Waste Hub exhibit conducted as part of the LiFE Campaign of MoEFCC. The exhibit took place at the COP28 Blue Zone from November 30th to December 6th, 2023. The Zero Waste Hub exhibit was a dynamic showcase that celebrated and highlighted 100 innovative pro-planet solutions from youth startups across India. These solutions not only demonstrated the creative prowess of young minds but also underlined India’s steadfast commitment to embracing and promoting sustainable practices on a national and global scale. This Zero Waste Hub at CoP28 marked the begininng of next phase of the youth-led Climate Solutions Movement of India.

Shri Bhupender Yadav acknowledged and commended the contribution of Indian youth in formulating the Indian National Youth Statement (INYS).  INYS was drafted by over 130 youth at the Local Conference of Youth (LCOY) held in September this year (Hosted by IYCN and Bring Back Green Foundation). INYS was presented at the event on Youth Actions on Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE) at the India Pavilion at COP28 summit venue in Dubai, UAE . The event was facilitated by Ms. Srishti Singh (Board Member, IYCN and associated with UNICEF – YuWaah India), witnessed the participation of four Young Climate Leaders from India – Mahiya Kulsoom, Arkesh Kedar Shenoy, Manjusha Manchala, and Aswini Kumar Paital (Delegates of LCOY India 2023) – who have been recognized for their exceptional on-ground efforts on climate change and environmental sustainability by UNICEF – YuWaah India. Shri Bhupender Yadav expressed positive feedback and extend congratulations on IYCN’s impactful journey. This recognition from the highest echelons of government stands as a testament to the significance of youth-led initiatives in combating climate change and fostering sustainable development.

Further to strengthen commitment of Indian Youth towards youth-led climate resilient development, Mr. Achintya Ghoshal, youngest member of IYCN COP28 delegation, along with Ms. Neha Jain (LCOY India 2023 Delegate) conducted a live interaction and virtual tour of CoP28 Venue with students of government schools in Delhi. He shared a brief overview of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), the Conference of the Parties (CoP), and the significance of the climate negotiations at CoP28.