The role of the younger generation in climate change has become the subject of global concern, especially in the context of Indonesia. Indonesia’s young generation not only has a high awareness of climate change but has also shown innovative and creative abilities in facing this challenge. They have played an active role in various efforts to control climate change, such as conducting community service, voicing through social media, and developing unique solutions to environmental problems. Why is that?
Innovative and Creative Ability
The younger generation is known for their innovative and creative abilities. They can develop unique solutions to environmental problems, such as Alwi Johan Yogatama who made a documentary video about waste and its impact on the environment. These innovations not only help raise public awareness of the importance of good waste management but also demonstrate the potential of the younger generation in developing sustainable technologies and strategies.
Social and Political Activities
The younger generation is not only limited to technological innovation. They are also active in social and political activities related to climate change. For example, the demonstration at COP27 in Egypt, which demanded climate justice and more sustainable policy change, showed that young people are not just talking, but acting.
Education and Education
Education and education are important aspects of climate change. Organizations such as Earth Day and Fridays For Future Indonesia have sought to incorporate climate education into school curricula. This shows that the younger generation must not only learn about climate change, but also must be agents of change in society.
Collaboration and Cooperation
The younger generation often works with organizations and governments to deal with climate change. For example, a community service activity entitled “Green Generation” carried out by the University of Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta and Aisyiyah University Yogyakarta, aims to provide education to the younger generation about climate change mitigation and adaptation.
Awareness and Concern
The younger generation has a high awareness of climate change and its impact on the environment and society. They do not want to give up on seeing climate change ruining the future. They are determined to do something, such as speaking out through social media, personal blogs, and international forums.
Government Support
The Government of Indonesia also supports the role of the younger generation in climate change. Minister of Environment and Forestry (KLHK) Siti Nurbaya has said that the younger generation can become actors and play an active role in climate change control agendas. The government has set a greenhouse emission reduction target by 2030 for the forestry and land sector (FOLU Net Sink), demonstrating a commitment to involving the younger generation in this effort. Overall, the role of the younger generation in climate change is very important. They not only have innovative and creative abilities but also have high awareness and care. With government support and cooperation with organizations, the younger generation can become effective agents of change in the face of climate change.