The climate crisis is the defining challenge of our generation
Climate change is the biggest challenge currently facing humanity. Climate change threatens not only our environment, but also our economic development and the quality of life we enjoy. It is the challenge that will define this generation. We will be remembered by how we respond to this challenge.
According to The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) synthesis report published in 2014 the evidence of climate change is unequivocal. It also shows how man-made emissions of greenhouse gases are driving climate change. Without actions, climate change will have potentially catastrophic effects for many areas of the globe. Even now, we see the adverse effects of climate change in all ecosystems. Heat waves and drought are more frequent, impacting both human health and agricultural productivity. The sea level is rising and bringing the threat of pushing people out of their homes and soon it will create climate refugees. As these impacts intensify over time, unfortunately it is the children and young people of today who will face the worst effects.
Youth constitute the majority of population in Turkey and many other countries and through education, technology, science or law, they are tapping into their skills to speak up for climate action. Young people have a crucial role in raising awareness, running educational programs, promoting sustainable lifestyles, conserving nature, and adopting environmentally-friendly practices, which are all essential to transform our societies towards a low-carbon and climate resilient future.