Summary

This session was divided into two parts: Part 1 featured a discussion on meaningful youth engagement, and Part 2 showcased action plans by the youth themselves.

In the first panel discussion, the moderator highlighted the critical situation of the SDGs, with only 18% of targets on track for 2030, making the expectations for youth even higher. It was noted that while the quantity of opportunities for youth to voice their opinions has increased—as seen in the UN Summit of the Future and the establishment of Japan's Children and Families Agency—the quality of participation remains a challenge. A shift to "meaningful engagement" is needed, where youth are not just given a platform but are empowered with authority equal to adults and provided with necessary support and compensation.

The panelists then shared their insights. The first speaker emphasised the indispensable role of youth's energy and knowledge, based on his experience in both domestic and international environmental administration. He stressed the importance of collaboration with adults to facilitate this engagement. The second speaker highlighted the significance of providing opportunities for youth to learn about sustainability, drawing from his long experience leading corporate projects for the next generation. He also noted a steady shift in the public's attitude toward environmental issues over the past few decades. The third speaker spoke from experience as a young person, and discussed the value of youth involvement in environmental activities and detailed a vision for the next generation and society to foster through her new organisation.

In the second part, three young people who participated in the "Taking the Next Step: What We Can Do on World Environment Day" workshop (co-hosted by NatureLit Japan and IGES in June) presented their action plans. The first speaker introduced a beach cleanup project aimed at tackling the microplastic issue at beaches in Akita Prefecture. The second young person spoke about using a YouTube channel to disseminate information on environmental issues more effectively. The third speaker explained a　plan to organise experiential healing tours to help people connect with nature in their daily lives. Following the presentations, a lively discussion was held with the audience and panelists, aimed at refining these action plans for better implementation.

Summary written by: ONO Mayuko , FUKUDA Miki