Ajman University’s Office of Sustainability at LCOY UAE 2023: Youth-Driven Climate Action and Sustainability

The Office of Sustainability at Ajman University recently participated in the Local Conference of Youth (LCOY) UAE 2023, a crucial event that brought youth to the forefront of climate action discussions. Hosted by the International Center for Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA) and Zayed University, the conference attracted over 200 young leaders, sustainability advocates, and key partners, united under the theme of "Putting Youth at the Heart of Climate Action."

Youth Engagement in Climate Action and Sustainability

Youth engagement is crucial to achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) within the next decade. With young individuals among the most vulnerable to climate impacts, their involvement in climate negotiations is essential. At LCOY, Ajman University’s team emphasized the power of youth-driven solutions in shaping a more sustainable future, advocating for stronger support from YOUNGO to facilitate youth gatherings and connections across the globe, enhancing the potential for effective climate action and knowledge-sharing.

Climate Adaptation, Mitigation, and Technology

Our participation underscored the importance of developing climate solutions specific to the UAE's environment. We discussed climate risks, including rising sea levels, heat waves, and dust storms, advocating for adaptive technologies such as water and soil desalination. Our commitment to the UAE's Net Zero by 2050 initiative and the Paris Agreement reinforced the need for strategic climate action to reduce global temperature rise to 1.5°C. Harnessing technology, we support innovation that accelerates progress toward these climate targets.

Education for Sustainable Development

We advocate an educational approach that enhances climate literacy and promotes sustainable practices. At LCOY, we highlighted the role of art and creative expression in raising climate awareness and advocated for increased investment in research through the UAE National Higher Education Strategy 2030. This initiative creates platforms for collaboration between universities and the private sector, equipping UAE youth with green skills and enhancing opportunities for career advancement.

Sustainable Resource Management and Biodiversity Conservation

Biodiversity and resource conservation remain central to our sustainability efforts. Our actions align with the UAE Biodiversity Strategy 2014-2021, emphasizing habitat protection and the use of Nature-based Solutions (NbS) to address interlinked biodiversity and climate challenges. These efforts reflect our commitment to safeguarding natural ecosystems for future generations.

Waste Management, Food Security, and Circular Economy

The Office of Sustainability also addressed waste reduction and sustainable food systems, based on the UAE’s National Food Security Strategy 2051. We emphasised the importance of reducing food waste and waste, promoting sustainable production, and promoting a circular economy. These initiatives align with our commitment to sustainable consumption and waste practices.

Private Sector Collaboration and Youth Empowerment

At LCOY, we urged the private sector to support youth-led sustainability initiatives, advocating for partnerships across government, academia, and industry to enhance young voices in climate action. Our mission is to foster collaborations that enhance youth-led projects and provide effective, sustainable solutions.

Through our partnership at LCOY UAE 2023, the Office of Sustainability at Ajman University is dedicated to promoting youth-driven climate action and aligning with national sustainability objectives for a greener, more resilient future.