Young people bring invaluable assets to the global job market: their energy, creativity, talent, cutting-edge skills and creativity combined with passion for positive changes is the catalyst that helps countries to grow, innovate and prosper.
Yet, the social and economic integration of young people remains an ongoing challenge in many parts of the world. Young people are three times as likely as adults to be unemployed. Those who work, often do so in the informal economy--in jobs with harsh conditions, low wages and uncertainty. And young women that make up over half of the unemployed youth are finding it harder than ever to close the gender gap.
Creating green jobs is a viable solution that gives young people a source of meaningful and sustainable livelihood in their own communities. Giving young people access to eco-entrepreneurship empowers them to contribute to mitigate the effects of climate change mitigation, biodiversity protection and land restoration, while addressing forced migration, social unrest and political instability which results from high unemployment rates.
The active participation of young people is also key to developing strategies and policies that protect the health of our planet and secure natural resources for generations to come. Blending traditional and indigenous knowledge with youth-driven innovation creates a comprehensive approach to ecological stewardship. Engaging young people in sustainable management of nature’s resources fosters their connection to the environment, instilling a sense of accountability for its well-being.
