Empowering Tomorrow: Green skills for youth building a sustainable world

– An article by Shivani Gadre

International Youth Day is an annual event designated by the United Nations to celebrate the role of young people in promoting and contributing to positive societal change and development. It is observed on August 12th each year.

The day serves as an opportunity to raise awareness about the challenges and issues that young people around the world face, as well as to recognize the potential and contributions they bring to various fields including politics, economy, science, and social development.

Each year, International Youth Day has a specific theme that focuses on different aspects of youth engagement and empowerment. This year’s theme is “Green Skills for Youth: Towards a Sustainable World.”

What are green skills?

Green skills, also known as sustainable skills or environmental skills, refer to the knowledge, abilities, and competencies that individuals need to address environmental challenges and contribute to sustainable development.

Green skills are increasingly sought after by employers, industries, and governments as the world shifts toward a more sustainable future. These skills enable individuals to contribute to environmental protection, resource efficiency, and the transition to a low-carbon economy. Training and education programs focused on green skills are essential for preparing the workforce for the challenges and opportunities of the evolving environmental landscape. As the global focus on sustainability increases, developing green skills among youth becomes crucial for building a sustainable future.

Here are some examples of green skills for youth:

• Environmental Awareness: Developing an understanding of environmental issues, such as climate change, pollution, and resource depletion, is essential for youth to become informed advocates for sustainability.
• Climate Literacy: Gaining knowledge about the science of climate change, its causes, impacts, and potential solutions, empowers youth to engage in conversations and initiatives related to climate action.
• Renewable Energy Knowledge: Learning about various renewable energy sources, their benefits, and how they work prepares youth to support and advocate for the transition to clean energy technologies.
• Energy Efficiency Practices: Acquiring skills to reduce energy consumption in daily life, such as using energy-efficient appliances, optimizing heating and cooling, and adopting energy-saving habits.
• Waste Reduction and Recycling: Learning about proper waste management, recycling practices, and the importance of reducing single-use plastics and other waste materials.
• Sustainable Mobility: Understanding the benefits of public transportation, cycling, walking, and carpooling for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainable urban mobility.
• Conservation and Biodiversity: Developing an appreciation for biodiversity, ecosystems, and the importance of conservation efforts to protect endangered species and habitats.
• Green Gardening and Urban Agriculture: Acquiring skills in organic gardening, urban farming, and community gardening to promote local food production and sustainable agriculture practices.
• Environmental Advocacy: Gaining skills in communication, public speaking, and social media to effectively advocate for environmental issues and inspire others to take action.
• Circular Economy Principles: Learning about the circular economy model and how it promotes reducing, reusing, and recycling resources to minimize waste and environmental impact.
• Digital Literacy for Sustainability: Understanding the role of technology in advancing sustainable practices, such as using apps to track energy consumption or participating in virtual sustainability campaigns.
• Green Entrepreneurship: Developing entrepreneurial skills to create and promote sustainable products or services that address environmental challenges.
• Sustainable Consumer Choices: Learning to make informed decisions about products and services based on their environmental impact, such as choosing eco-friendly products and reducing plastic consumption.
• Community Engagement: Participating in local environmental initiatives, volunteering for conservation projects, and engaging with community groups focused on sustainability.
• Collaboration and Networking: Developing the ability to collaborate with peers, organizations, and experts to work collectively on sustainability projects and initiatives.
• Encouraging and nurturing green skills among youth is crucial for creating a generation that is environmentally conscious and equipped to address the complex challenges of environmental sustainability. These skills empower young individuals to become active agents of positive change in their communities and on a global scale.

Why Green skills are crucial?

We need green skills to address the pressing environmental challenges and to transition towards a more sustainable and resilient future. These skills are essential for individuals, communities, industries, and governments to effectively contribute to environmental conservation, combat climate change, and promote sustainable development.

Overall, green skills are instrumental in creating a more harmonious relationship between humans and the environment. They empower individuals to take meaningful actions, drive positive change, and contribute to a more sustainable and equitable world for current and future generations.

In essence, celebrating International Youth Day is an affirmation of the potential of young people as agents of change. It serves as a reminder that investing in their well-being, education, and empowerment is crucial for building a more inclusive, sustainable, and prosperous world for everyone.