On November 11, the Global Alliance of Universities on Climate (GAUC) hosted its 2024 ‘Climate x’ High-Level Event at the China Pavilion in the Blue Zone of the 29th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29). The event marked the culmination of GAUC’s ‘Climate x’ series, highlighting the impactful climate actions led by next-generation leaders aiming for global carbon neutrality.
Prominent figures in global climate governance attended the event. Liu Zhenmin, China’s special envoy for climate change, praised the active role of youth in climate governance. “I hope young faces here will continue to practice low-carbon actions, demonstrate leadership, and inspire more peers to join this great cause,” he said.
Rachel Kyte, the UK’s special representative for climate, commended GAUC for fostering collaboration among students worldwide. Felipe Paullier, UN assistant secretary-general for youth affairs, emphasized linking climate action with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Catherine McKenna, chair of the UN secretary-general’s High-level Expert Group on Net-Zero Commitments, stressed the urgency of addressing climate challenges through multi-stakeholder collaboration.
The ceremony celebrated the achievements of graduates from the ‘Climate x’ Youth Leadership Training Program and GAUC Youth Ambassadors. Following the presentations, two dynamic roundtable discussions on ‘Climate x Global Governance’ and ‘Climate x Youth Action’ featured climate experts and youth representatives from universities around the globe.
This year, nearly 880 students from 79 countries participated in the ‘Climate x’ Leadership Training Program, inspiring over 100 youth-led activities worldwide. GAUC also launched the ‘Climate Q’ Campaign at COP29, an interactive quiz designed to enhance collaboration and engagement across diverse pavilions.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
