“Youth Lead the Charge: Empowering Sustainable Futures through Carbon Markets and Waste Management”

By Enia Dube

In a groundbreaking initiative, young people are being empowered to take the reins in promoting sustainability and environmental stewardship. At a recent event, industry experts outlined two key strategies to achieve this goal: enhancing knowledge about environmental issues and fostering sustainable practices.

The demographic makeup of waste pickers in the region underscores the importance of this initiative, with 70% being female, 30% male, and a significant proportion of youth. This highlights the potential for youth-led initiatives to drive positive change in the community. 

Mr. Anglistone Sibanda, Founder and CEO of African Carbon Markets Forum, emphasized the critical role of carbon markets in achieving carbon neutrality. “The Paris Agreement and Carbon Markets Economy offer unparalleled opportunities for young people to develop carbon projects and tap into financial incentives within the environmental sector,” Sibanda noted. 

The Paris Agreement, adopted in 2015, aims to limit global warming to well below 2°C and pursue efforts to limit it to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. Achieving this goal requires economic and social transformation, grounded in the best available science. By leveraging carbon markets, young people can play a pivotal role in mitigating climate change.

By empowering youth to develop carbon projects and access financial opportunities, this initiative aims to create a sustainable future for all. The event highlighted the importance of fostering cooperation among countries to achieve emission reduction targets and promoting carbon markets as a vital tool in this endeavor. 

As the world strives for carbon neutrality, initiatives like these will be crucial in empowering the next generation of leaders. By harnessing the energy and creativity of youth, we can create a more sustainable future and ensure a livable planet for generations to come.