Climate-justice-now

Africa’s Journey to COP28

by with No Comment News

The time is now for the African continent to actively participate in the climate change conversation. Respective nations and institutions are creating necessary projects and strategies to achieve a 100% green environment. With focus turned towards the upcoming COP28 climate conference, set for 30 November to 12 December, 2023 in UAE, African nations are determined to make their voices heard.

Nigeria’s President Muhammadu Buhari in his recent speech on African Climate stated, “We cannot continue ignoring that climate change is a pressing issue in our continent. We should act by protecting our environment and secure the future for generations to come.”

To the delight of Africans, the continent’s climate entities are working to implement various projects to promote sustainable growth and reduce carbon emissions. One of the initiatives is the African Renewable Energy Initiative (AREI), aiming to provide 300 GW by 2030.

Another example is the recent Great Green Wall across the Sahara, aimed at controlling desertification and promoting sustainable land use. This project involves planting an 8000km wall of trees and vegetation across the continent, stretching from Senegal in the west to Djibouti in the east.

This isn’t to forget the reafforestation efforts in different nations, like Kenya, initiated by the President William Ruto aiming to enhance the national tree cover by 30% through planting 15 billion tress. Nigeria, with the highest deforestation rate globally at 3.7%, and similar nations should follow, and recent developments are a plus. The change is also influenced by the recent integration of carbon markets around Africa; a move also projected to be a game changer.

Still, Africa faces several challenges including devastating drought and floods, which institutions such as the African Development Bank(AfDB) will showcase at COP28. One of the issues is insufficient climate finance, where International communities, volunteers and marketers are welcome to invest in the African Climate agenda. External participation is essential, with countries like Malawi, Mozambique and Madagascar picking up the pieces from the worst-ever Cyclone, Freddy.

Young Talent Pipeline 2023

UNEP’s Call for Young Professionals Passionate about the Environment to Join their Young Talent Pipeline Initiative

by with No Comment Insights

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) has launched a new initiative called the Young Talent Pipeline in partnership with the United Nations Volunteers (UNV) program. The initiative aims to tackle the pressing global issues of climate change, nature loss, pollution, and waste by harnessing the energy and expertise of young professionals. 

You can apply if you’re 33 years or younger, as the program targets dynamic thinkers within this age group. You must also have a postgraduate degree and at least three years of relevant work experience. And, of course, a strong passion for environmental issues and a commitment to better the people and planet are must-have traits. 

In a video message, Inger Andersen, Executive Director of UNEP, expressed her excitement about the initiative. She stated that it’s a chance for youths and professionals to work together in an effort to protect the Earth. 

Moreover, UNV Executive Coordinator reiterated the initiative’s significance by highlighting that UNEP and UNV are joining forces to provide a global platform for emerging environmental leaders. 

Note that the application duration is between 1 April and 15 May 2023, and if you’re interested, visit UNV’s website to apply. The initial cohort will consist of 12 young professionals who will start working with UNEP at its headquarters in Nairobi, Kenya, in September 2023. 

These candidates will work for one year and will have access to dedicated mentorship and training programs. This will give them valuable opportunities for learning and professional development.