Join us as we examine the role of urban young people in promoting policy action on climate change. During this interactive event we will discuss how children and youth can and are providing solutions for greater resilience in the urban environment as well as fostering social inclusion.

In preparation for the upcoming Conference of the Parties (COP) 21 in November/December 2015 in Paris, this event will include a presentation of original child and youth-led mitigation and adaptation initiatives where young people are making a catalytic contribution to sustainable urban environments. A moderated panel discussion between New School students, New School faculty, activists and practitioners will follow.

Today’s generation of young people will be disproportionately affected by climate change. In cities, young people experience some of the worst impacts of climate change and environmental degradation, and as the world’s urban population grows, the magnitude of this problem will only increase.

Despite these concerns, only a minority of climate policies and plans specifically address children’s and young people’s needs.  Few organizations engage children and adolescents in these issues, despite their own mobilization and action around the world. The dynamic contributions of young people today, and not just as tomorrow’s leaders, deserves visibility and promotion.

The event will feature:

– Innovative youth-led project presentations

– A moderated panel discussion and Q&A with the audience

– Mingling and networking, refreshments will be served

Speakers will include Dr. Sheridan Bartlett, Senior Research Associate in the Human Settlements Program at the International Institute for Environment and Development (IIED); Amanda Cronin, Youth Council, iMatter, Kids vs. Global Warming; Alex Loznak, Our Children’s Trust; Zakeeyah Harris and Jefferson Diaz, the Ironbound Community Corporation; and Shirley Bucknor and Anze Zadel from The New School’s New Challenge.

Livestreaming will be available here.

Sponsored by Equity for Children at The New School and the Tishman Environment and Design Center.

The event is free; but RSVP is required here.