On June 29, 2023, the Durban International Convention Centre hosted the 8th annual Green Youth Indaba. Among the attendees was Minister of Forestry, Fisheries, and The Environment, Barbara Creecy, who delivered a speech on the importance of sustainable development and the role of youth in addressing environmental issues.
Sustainable Development as the Solution to Our Economic Problems
Minister Creecy introduced sustainable development as the only correct approach to solving economic problems. This means meeting the needs of the present without compromising future generations’ ability to meet their own needs. Unfortunately, previous generations’ unsustainable use of resources has caused today’s youth to confront climate change, biodiversity loss, and environmental pollution.
The Triple Crises Affecting Our Economy and Environment
The crises of climate change, biodiversity loss, and environmental pollution have significant implications for our economy, built environment, and food and water security. Extreme weather events caused by climate change, such as the tornado that hit eThekwini and the floods in KwaZulu-Natal, have devastating consequences.
Urgent Action Needed to Transition to a Low Carbon Economy
Despite the challenges posed by these crises, Minister Creecy believes that urgent action is needed to transition to a low carbon, climate-resilient economy. South Africa is a signatory to the three Rio Conventions and the Paris Agreement on climate change, pledging to reduce global temperature increases and protect land and sea ecosystems.
Cooperation and Assistance from Developed Countries
However, achieving these targets is difficult for developing countries like South Africa, which faces numerous demands on government resources. Minister Creecy calls for cooperation and assistance from developed countries, arguing that justice is essential in addressing climate change and biodiversity loss.
The Opportunities of the Green Economy
The green economy, driven by the transition to low carbon energy, offers new opportunities for employment, ownership, and shared prosperity. Projects such as the international pact to end plastic pollution and the recycling industry demonstrate the green economy’s potential in South Africa.
Empowering the Youth for a Sustainable Future
The 8th Annual Green Youth Indaba serves as a platform for young people to explore the opportunities and challenges of sustainable development. By fostering participation and skills development in the emerging green economy, the indaba aims to empower the youth to address the existential crises of climate change, biodiversity loss, and environmental degradation and contribute to a sustainable future.
