Staff Reporter
Youth participation in climate change mitigation is set to take center stage at this year’s United Nations Climate Change Conference scheduled for November in Azerbaijan.
As the global debate rages on between reducing fossil fuel use and increasing reliance on renewable energy, young voices are rising to demand urgent and sustainable action.
In an interview with this publication, 14-year-old Climate Action advocate Vongayi Nhapi from Zimbabwe has joined other youth leaders worldwide in calling for a swift transition to renewable energy, stressing that the future of the planet hinges on making the right choices now.
“We cannot save a burning planet with a firehose of fossil fuels. We must accelerate a just and equitable transition to renewables with the resources we have available.
"The science is clear that the 1.5-degree limit is only possible if we stop burning fossil fuels. The road to climate sustainability is also the only viable pathway to economic sustainability for the future. I urge Governments to help industries make the right choice by regulating, legislating, and putting a fair price on carbon, ending fossil fuel subsidies,” said Nhapi.
Zimbabwe, like many other developing nations, has been heavily impacted by the effects of climate change, despite contributing very little to global pollution.
Nhapi emphasized the need for climate justice, pointing out the disproportionate burden developing nations face due to the actions of wealthier countries.
“Climate justice is long overdue. Developing countries are being devastated by disasters they did not cause, and high borrowing costs are blocking their climate action plans. The support they receive is too little and often comes too late.
“The global stock-take must commit to a surge in finance for adaptations and loss and damage. It is time to reform multilateral development banks so that they can leverage private finance at affordable costs to help developing countries," she added.
Project Manager in the National Ozone Unit, George Chaumba, emphasized the transformative power of climate action, particularly through the use of renewable energy.
“Climate action can flip the switch. Renewable energy is the gift that keeps on giving. It is good for our planet, our health, and our economy. Adopting sustainable energy sources is crucial for long-term environmental and economic benefits,” remarked Chaumba.
As Zimbabwe grapples with the effects of El Nino-induced droughts, Government remains committed to supporting global efforts in the fight against climate change. Renewable energy is being seen as a key solution not only for environmental protection but also for economic recovery.
The upcoming UN conference will provide a critical platform for young climate advocates like Nhapi to push for more aggressive global action in the face of this growing challenge.
