Engaging the Next Generation Best Practice on involving Children and youths for a sustainable future

GHana 1 ghana

india

denmark

Belgium

nigeria

zambia sweden

2 GHana GHana 3 Belgium Engaging India the Next Generation

denmark

Ghana

Nigeria

Zambia

Sweden

4 GHana GHana 5 ENGAGING THE NEXT GENERATION A Special Thanks To: Best Practice On Involving Children And The local coordinators Regin Pindstrup, Isaac Am- Youth For A Sustainable Future pomah, Muhammad Usman, Ali Bukar Ahmad, Maldrine Mbeba, Brighton Kaoma, Josephine Creative commons: Attribution – Non commer- Pumlo, Märta Bergkvist, Linnea Uppsäll, Helen Engaging cial – Share Alike. The photographs are limited Ceplitis, Erik Roupe, Iman Mehdi, Janie Knudsen, by ©. Ane Rottbøll Jørgensen, Amalie Villesen and Sujit Authors/contributors: The Global Climate Am- Mahapatra for their amazing work with coordi- bassadors from Nigeria, India, Sweden, Ghana, nating and facilitating the local workshops. the Next Belgium, Zambia and Denmark (the full list of Speechwriter Rune Kier for his relentless and participants can be found on the inside of the effective work as he gathered the points from each cover of this book). country and in one hour made a speech draft that Edited by Ane Rottbøll Jørgensen gave us all goose bumps. www.runekier.dk. Generation & Amalie Villesen Editorial consultant Jesper Bo Petersen for Graphic design by Line Kjeldsen Jensen, extracting central points and expressions to be www.smokeandmirrorsstudio.dk published from the extensive written material Best Practice on involving submitted by each country. Photographs by Sandra O. Andersen (SplitArt) as well as local country contributors. Jakob Colville-Ebeling (UNICEF Denmark), Children and youths for Patrick Slavin (UNICEF Zambia), Mattias The quotes throughout the report are cited from Söderberg (Danish Church Aid), Alexander Leicht a sustainable future the IPCC Plenary Session Welcome Dinner (UNESCO, Paris) and Trine Kofoed Hybholt (The Reception Speech held by the Danish Climate Energy- and Water Science Center, Denmark) for Ambassadors on behalf of the global group of your indispensable help to get connected to the Climate Ambassadors. project partners in each country. www.groen.kk.dk The ”Sharing Copenhagen” Team for supporting 1st edition, 1st printing the conception and development of this report Printing: GSB Grafisk and project. Edition of 1500 The Danish Ministry of Climate, Energy and Paper. Cocoon Offset 100% recycled Building for the invitation to speak at the Welcome Dinner Reception at the IPCC Plenary Meeting October 27th 2014 and for the funds to carry out this project. DANIDA and Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark for the funds to carry out this project.

541-478 Svanemærket Tryksag

6 GHana GHana 7 contents

Foreword: Are you ready to pass on the torch /6 Engaging the Next Generation /10 The education, The project, The process best practise /15 Individual contributions from a collective process

Belgium We Can Make A Difference /16 India From Small Things to Major Catastrophes in India /20

The 12 principles on how to engage children and youths in sustainable development incerts

Denmark the Danish children want to help /26 Ghana In Ghana Climate changes steal our daily bread /30 Nigeria Locally and Globally /34

Zambia An Aware future /40 Sweden extreme weather and flooding /44

Partners /48

8 GHana GHana 9 Climate change doesn’t affect everybody, Danes, Swedes and Belgians are aware that this is happening, but they don’t Are you feel the truly horrible consequences – not yet. The countries with large industries driven by fossil fuel, the countries that are responsible for the dangerously changing climate are not ready the ones that suffer the most. But the future is nearby. And we have to make sure that we all contribute when it comes to fixing the problem – fixing the world. Just like the older gene­ to pass on ration shouldn’t pass the mess they have made on to us – the children.

For us, the changing climate is not about numbers, graphs the torch? and difficult words. It is about our world, our future and our foreword survival. The future we will inherit from you. We, the citizens of the world, must stop at nothing to fight climate change.

We, the children from Ghana, Belgium, Nigeria, Sweden, India, And to do that we have to put old animosities and prejudices Zambia and Denmark, are the Global Climate Ambassadors, behind us and collaborate across borders. Who better to do and we want to talk to you about the changing climate. that than the future generation, us, the children. We are the ones with the energy. We are the ones open-minded enough Climate changes are happening right now! In the past it was to take this seriously. We are the leaders of tomorrow. a question about our future. But yesterday has passed. The climate is changing now; right now as you are reading this But we need you to lead the way and tell us everything you report. We can’t stress this enough. We see it, we hear it, and know about the climate, about governance. You still have some places: like in Ghana, India, and Zambia it is part of the time to become the admirable role models on climate everyday life. change. But time is running out, and at some point you will have to pass on the torch – hopefully burning bright – when We worry about our future. time comes. In India children are suffering heat strokes in the classrooms and on the street. The rising sea level has already made homes and villages disappear. In Ghana children go to bed The Global Climate Ambassadors with empty stomachs because it has become so dry that 2014 food can’t grow in the fields. When the rain patterns change,

farmers don’t know when to sow their crops. Wildlife is going This foreword is an edited edition of the Global Climate The speech was performed by three Danish Climate Ambas- extinct. In Zambia schools are flooded and destroyed. The Ambassadors speech held at the banquet at the Plenary sadors on behalf of the whole group of Global Climate Am- Session of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change bassadors from Zambia, Nigeria, Sweden, Ghana, Belgium Zambians are thinking about making schools that floats. The (IPCC) in the Town Hall of the City of Copenhagen on and India who all took part in writing the speech. threat of another natural disaster is ever present. October 27th 2014.

10 foreword are you ready to pass on the torch? 11 We represent the future and as the leaders of tomorrow, we are the ones who will have to deal with the con- sequences long after you are gone.

12 GHana GHana 13 the report: The speech can be read as the rent parts of the world, to ensure a depth of ENGAGING THE NEXT foreword of this report (page 6-7), and the understanding of both the similarities and principles are displayed in the incerts. differences of how climate change is experi­ GENERATION enced and contributed to across the globe. The Process The dialogue tracks have taken place be­ The Education, The Project, The Process The process of collaboration has primari­ tween: Belgium & India, Zambia & Sweden, ly taken place in parallel dialogue tracks Nigeria & Denmark & Ghana. between partnering countries from diffe­

The Education countries, across the globe, into a concerted Climate Ambassador Education was intro­ action to leverage the voice of the future duced as part of the Children’s Conference generation, so that the local project trans­ during COP15 in 2009. forms to include a global dimension; not only The Climate Ambassador Education in the understanding of the challenge, but aims to educate the next generation to also in the action involved. The network that become active citizens that take part in cre­ has been established between the countries ating a sustainable future. Coming genera­ will continue while the climate ambassador Ghana tions will face complex challenges related education is simultaneously rolled out local­ to climate change. Therefore, it is important ly in some countries. that the future generations are capable of This report is the output of the “Global India responding to these challenges. Through Climate Ambassador Education” and a practical, creative and innovative learning co­llaboration between 106 10-18 year-old’s programs we are working on giving the chil­ from seven countries, including India, Belgium dren and young people the insight, skills and Zambia, Belgium, Nigeria, Sweden, Ghana commitment needed to take on the fight for and Denmark. The report represents the denmark a brighter future. Education is part of the essence of numerous dialogues where ex­ Department for Sustainable Development in periences and reflections have been shared the Children and Youth Administration in the and discussed across countries to extract Municipality of Copenhagen, Denmark. Until the best practice on how the coming gen­ 2014 more than 200 children were trained as erations can acquire the insight, skills and climate ambassadors, primarily in Copenha­ commitment needed for tackling climate gen, but also secondly in Malmö, Sweden as change. Sweden part of a joint project. The collaborative process of mapping Zambia Nigeria Best Practices has resulted in twelve central The Project principles and a speech to be held at the In­ The project “Global Climate Ambassador tergovernmental Panel on Climate Change Education” is an expansion of the Climate (IPCC) Plenary Meeting Welcoming Recep­ Ambassador Education from Copenhagen. tion in Copenhagen October 27th 2014, as It has been the aim of this project to join the panel convenes to approve the synthe­ selected educational initiatives for chil­ sis report aimed at policymakers around dren on climate issues, going on in various the world. Each outcome is represented in

14 engaging the next generation engaging the next generation 15 Reflection how are we working? To create a shared foundation for the conception of a joint speech and a collective catalog of Best Practices, each country has reflected and shared their deliberations on what is needed to engage the future generations in sustainable development.

Presentation First, each country has created an introductory film presenting who they are and how climate change is experienced locally and globally by them, and reflect & share each film has been considered by their partnering country in order to grasp the global aspects of climate change.

Co-creation On the basis of the first three phases, all participants have met online to dis­ make a movie cuss and construct the final list of best practice principles and formulate the points they wanted to include in the speech for the IPCC. The joint session was completed by a feedback session on the speech draft and a concerted farewell.

Investigation The children in each country have mapped out what motivates children and youths to participate actively in combating climate change. Mapping the motivators took its point of departure in the local context and personal ex­ periences of each group of Climate Ambassadors. One example is Belgium, where the children leveraged their experiences from participating in the EU Green Week in Brussels during the spring 2014, where they designed con­ cepts for how to tackle environmental issues and presented them for the EU meeting Commissioners of Climate and of Environment. In India the participants used their experiences from working as volunteers at the MY Tree Campaign of ractise st p Bakul nudging youths and children to sustainable behaviors. The differences be in experiences as well as conditions are expressed in the wide variety in the motivators from each country. report speech results

write a text at the IPCC Plenary Meeting, Copenhagen October 27th 2014

16 17 Climate change is here right now – in the past it was a question about Best our future. No More. Climate change is now. We see it, we hear it and we talk about it. Practice individual contributions from a collective process

The following sections are divided into each participating country group of Climate Ambassadors. In each part you will find what three motivational factors each group of climate ambassadors thinks are the keys to engaging the future gen­ erations in sustainable development. The three motivators are introduced first by a description of how children and young people experience climate change in each country, followed by reflections on climate change as a global issue as a response to the first dialogue session with the partnering country. The motivators are concluded by a call for action. In each chapter you will also find presentation of the local organization facilitating the climate ambassadors program.

18 GHana GHana 19 Belgium India we can make a difference belgium

In our video we want to show that everybody, even the child­ren, can make a difference. In Belgium we might take the bike instead of the car, but in less fortunate countries, droughts and floods are putting people out of their homes and causing illness. We want to make everyone aware that this is everybody’s problem.

smiles through disaster in India climate changes in their country, the Indians In our country, Belgium, the only worries are still manage to smile, and they have high that the summers are getting longer and the hopes for the future, which we find amazing. snow is nowhere to be found in the winter. The climate ambassadors from India are The European On the other side of the globe, in India, you themselves keen on changing things for the School Brussel I. can see the consequences of the changing better, and that only gives us just the more Purpose of the organization: The climate just by looking out your window. reason to help take part in helping children pupils in S2, as the future generation, will get the possibility to solve complex Floods are destroying the crops and people’s in India and other countries where climate climate problems. By participating homes. A lot of poor people are basically change has a huge impact. As children, we in Green Week in the spring of 2014 homeless, and the province’s capacity to can only do small things, but even small and the Global Climate Ambassador Education in the fall of 2014. They need produce food has been reduced to only 40 things – like recycling – can make a differ­ to understand our local and global percent of the original state. ence. And you get to feel good about yourself climate challenges today, so that they The children can’t do the things they too. We all need to do that, because the can be actors in the climate solutions in used to, things that are totally normal for planet needs us to make a change. Climate the future and help us getting a more sustainable world. other children in other countries; like going changes affect everyone. Together we can Age of the participants: 11 to 12 to school because it is too hot or too rainy. help people in need and shape a better future year-olds But despite all the disasters caused by for all of us.

20 GHana belgium 21 how to motivate children and youths Global Climate Ambassadors

Be proud A winning cause If you make a difference, you will be proud of Everybody loves to win and be the best at stuff. yourself and what you have done. The climate is That is also a motivator for working for the something we all share. climate. When you are helping to mitigate climate change and help­ Everybody likes to be acknowledged. When we get acknow­ ing others to adapt to the consequences of climate change, ledged for our work for the climate we get to feel better about you also help yourself. If we, all of us around the globe, keep ourselves. And maybe we could use that. We could make emitting CO2 and allow the climate changes to happen it will competitions which would make people aware of the climate come down on us - all of us. And by trying to make a differ­ changes. Everybody loves to win; let’s make this more about ence we might just feel a little bit better - more proud. winning rather than just losing the least.

Small things matter india needs our help If we want to change things everyone needs to get The Indians actually need help, whereas in involved. If we want to set the climate straight, Belgium we haven’t really experienced the we have to convince people that even small disastrous consequences of climate change. Like children from all over the world we things matter. want to make a difference and contribute to If people are made aware that they are ruining a bit of the a more sustainable world. But we can’t do it world by throwing their trash on the ground, then maybe they without the help of adults – parents, teachers, politicians. Children have lots of great, crea­ will put the trash in a recycle bin the next time. If we change tive ideas, but we need the help of grown-ups people’s attitude towards climate change, we might be able to carry them out. to help those in need more effectively; and help ourselves and our children. a call for action

22 belgium belgiumGHana 23 india belgium From small things to major catastrophes in india india

In our video we talk about the consequences of climate change. For instance, when the dams dry out in the summer we have no electricity and we can’t play our video games. But actually, it is much more serious, the heat wave in 1998 killed 1,500 people. And we have been struck by three major cyclones in the last two decades, and most people don’t even get a meal a day.

The Belgians worry fast. This we can all agree on. You state that We were shocked by the fact that you too are CO2 are being emitted from cars. We believe suffering from the flu. It has also affected us that although cars are one of the major in Bhubaneswar, India. Unlike the Belgians, contributors to this crisis, we should, and we in East and Southeast Asia experience perhaps even more so, focus on the indus­ very harsh summers. On top of this, the fact tries that spew out carbon too. that the summers are getting longer and As you guys are saying in the video, the longer are only making it even harsher for us climate changes are affecting all of us, all here. The points that you guys made about around the globe. You mention the rising floods, “some nations have extreme floods, heat level. In our school life we see many

Bakul Foundation while others don’t even have enough water people suffering heat strokes and fainting. Purpose of the organization: for drinking,” were very alarming. The heat saps energy, making us tired even Bakul Foundation attempts to inspire What we can do, and we think we can after just a few minutes in the sun. This re­ individuals to be the change they want agree on that, is to pass on the water from duces our work efficiency considerably. And in the world and provides a platform the floods to the countries which are facing natural disasters, heat waves and cyclones for becoming that change. It works with volunteers and attempts to demon- droughts. The wild changes in the weather lead among other things to electricity short­ strate the power of volunteerism. have affected the world globally in gigantic age. So naturally, we are happy to hear that Age of the participants: proportions and this underlines the fact that you guys in Europe are aware that this is a 14 to 16 year-olds we should work together and find a solution global problem that requires global action.

24 GHana india 25 how to motivate children and youths Global Climate Ambassadors

Unbearable Useful, but warmth polluting Because the heat is rising it gets harder and harder to be a child in India. resources Every day, youngsters see an oil crisis, In our schools a lot of people suffer heat strokes and people or hear about another fossil-fuel crisis. are fainting due to the intensity of the heat. We get tired and weary after just a few minutes in the sun. We feel the climate These polluting fuels are only worsening the climate changes, which our changes directly on our bodies. The uncontrollable changes world currently faces. We have to reduce these polluting-but-useful resour­ and natural disasters we can see around us motivates us to ces. The youth is known to be thinking very differently and innovative, and they can create, combine, and contribute to bringing about that change. be agents of change so that the future generations will not suffer from an environment that’s running wild.

Listen to the children Natural disasters Natural disasters which can ruin people’s The massive climate changes have affected us lives and a country’s infrastructure, are not Stop cutting happening in Belgium. You are motivated by considerably and have brought countless natural down the forest what you have been told by the media, your disasters to our state. Even though the city has enough green parents and teachers, about the melting cover to absorb its carbon emissions there poles and the alarming amount of CO2 that The cyclones are destroying not only people’s houses, but is not enough to provide shade. We have to we are emitting. also the forest and the very important “green lungs” of the stop cutting down trees. Our age is somewhat of a barrier. People cities in our State. And the rising sea levels are eliminating driving on the road you can see the are always prejudiced about children and countless small villages from the map. We see and feel it barren roads and even people collapsing believe that we haven’t got anything to say every day and it has to change. due to the severe intensity of the heat. The on the issue. So we need the help of teach­ rapid climatic change has brought signif­ ers, parents and other adults to pass on our icant change in the amount of heat that message. we, the youngsters, face. And cutting down trees has definitely not helped at all. It has just added another disaster to the climate changes. a call for action

26 india indiaGHana 27 Climate change does not affect everybody the same. The countries who have caused climate change are not the ones who will suffer the most.

28 GHana GHana 29 The 12 principles

The Global Climate Ambassadors from Nigeria, Ghana, Zambia, India, Belgium, Sweden on how to and Denmark have created 12 principles. The principles have been created through workshops engage and dialogue across borders. The principles reflect the children’s thoughts and ideas on how to engage children and youths in the fight against children and climate change. The principles are organized in four central themes. youths in sustainable development Climate change awareness should be fun and engaging The bigger picture Adults, lead the way, and listen to us Be active and walk the talk Listen to the children and give them a voice. Children need knowledge about In all countries there is a need for local solutions to local climate problems. At Children need adults to take responsibility by supporting and showing chil- It is one thing to have knowledge, but another thing to act on it. We need climate change. This should be done in a fun and educational way. And this the same time, maintaining a global perspective by sharing knowledge with dren and youths the path to a brighter future. action from children, youths, adults – we need action from you. should already start when the children are still in the early stages of life. other countries. The best way to educate and engage children and youths is to do it together, thereby improving the climate.

1 / It is fun to be 3/ Sustainable develop- 5 / Local solutions to 7 / We can learn from 8 / Listen to our ideas 10 / Adults from all 11 / Do not ignore 12 / Youth Participation taken serious ment in the schools local climate problems each other and be inspired countries must work the voices of the youth and Active Citizenship together for the sake Even though climate change is a Children need to get educated We need to create different local In this project we have realized that Children have many creative ideas, Children should have the oppor- Youth participation is about em- serious matter, we need to make and engaged in climate related youth-led groups with different the countries responsible for the but they need help from adults to of the children tunity to express their views, as powering young people and actively sure that the future generations issues and relate to nature from meanings and intents in order to dangerously changing climate are carry them out. All over the world For effective collaboration and en- they too are part of organizations engaging them in decision-making are ready to take on the challenges; a very early age. Schools are the create local solutions on climate not the ones suffering the most. So children wish to contribute to a gagement of children-and-youths- and communities, thus the youths processes. We need to develop learning needs to be engaging and central institution where children change. Which solutions children in order to truly understand what more sustainable world. But this centered activities on climate have the right to be heard and young leaders who work with local, fun. Being taken seriously is fun, can share experiences and develop and youths will focus on in relation climate change is and its conse- contribution needs to be in colla­ change, it is important to develop participate. The youths of today national and regional authorities and being playful while you learn is smarter ways to adapt and mitigate to climate change will vary between quences children need to connect boration with adults; parents, mutual learning partnerships have developed a mindset, which to tackle issues related to climate engaging. the climate changes. Therefore communities and will depend on with children from other parts of teachers and people who are in a among children and youths, both in leads them to be self-sufficient and change. sustainability programs need to be their geographical position. the world. Connecting with children position to make important deci- school and out of school. Further- independent in many ways. When implemented in schools. who experience climate change sions in relation to the climate. adults listen to the youths they 2/ Climate in a more, to ensure hope and prepare differently creates engagement by will feel that they are not simply language we can 6 / Collaborations youths to be better positioned to making the crisis tangible. Sudden- deal with the future climate ignored by the world because they understand 4 / Engagement through across oceans 9/ Adults need to act ly the children understand why a variability we need sustainable are young. Small changes can lead youth to youth and borders as role models It is important that children and positive change is urgent. The dia- programs and networks such as the to big things; small efforts to fight- campaigns youths receive knowledge about Climate change is a global issue logue and the collaborative process Parents, teachers, and famous Climate Ambassador Education ing climate change encourage the climate changes and sustainability We need more engaging ways to and does not affect one continent create a platform from where we, people are all role models for future Program across countries. children to make a difference. in a manner they find exciting and incorporate sustainable living in alone, thus children’s leadership as well as the future generations, generations, thus adults need to is communicated to the children in our daily lives, and youth-to-youth- and will to collaborate across can take part in fighting climate engage in sustainable actions in a language they can understand. learning should be a key principle borders and oceans need to be cul- change. order for the children to be inspired in this regard. We, as young people, tivated. As a starting point for this and follow adults’ behaviors. have the insight to create cam- collaboration for a better future we paigns that target our peers in an need to share our experiences with engaging way, for example through children and youths on the other the social media. continents of this, the only, world. denmark The Climate commitment needed to face the com- Ambassador Education plex challenges of climate change. The ghana The Danish children Purpose of the organization: The education is part of the Department nigeria Climate Ambassador Education aims to for Sustainable Development in the educate the next generation to become Children and Youth Administration that want to help active citizens who take part in creating works practically and strategically with a sustainable future. Through practical, leveraging education for sustainable denmark creative and innovative learning pro- development for all children and youths grams we work on giving the children between 0-18 years in the Municipality and young people the insight, skills and of Copenhagen. Citizens who take part in creating a sustainable future. We already can, and will definitely come to feel the climate Through practical, creative and innova- tive educational and learning programs, changes. The water level is rising because the poles are we work on giving all the children and melting. We have already experienced floods, hurricanes and young people an Education for Devel- opment for Sustainable Development. dry summers. But this is nothing compared to the rest of the Age of the participants: world where it has proved to be ten times as deadly. In 12 to 13 year-olds parti­cipating in the project we hope to help people from all over the world to get a better and safer life.

We need to help more wind turbines, and make organic In the video from Ghana and Nigeria we products more affordable. could see that in Denmark we are experi­ The children in Nigeria and Ghana want encing climate change in different ways to put food on the table and create a better than the children in Ghana and Nigeria. But economy for their families but also for future two things which we, the young people in all generations. In Ghana and Nigeria it is all three countries, had in common was this: about survival, thus the climate ambassa­ We are all aware that the climate changes dors in Ghana and Nigeria are very motivat­ are happening, and we all want to make a ed to improve the climate. They can see how difference. As opposed to the Danish people their families are affected; and that is why the Nigerians are experiencing floods which they want to work for change. Through cam­ can destroy both houses and crops and paigns we can make sure the whole world cause poverty. In Nigeria and Ghana climate gets knowledge about climate changes. We changes are part of their daily lives as they should all be more concerned about where affect their health and create famine. we buy our products, and if we really need We believe that we can change the all that we buy – the best thing would be climate both locally and globally, but it that we buy only the products we really need requires, among other things, that we begin locally and reuse and recycle. We must also to prioritize differently. We can, for instance, remember that the little things, like turning cut back on our consumption, use more off the light, also matter. green energy, be more self-sufficient, create

30 GHana denmark 31 how to motivate children and youths Global Climate Ambassadors

The small things Consequences Small actions can have a big impact. ‘Small actions’ can be a motivator in relation to making up close All around the world we are experiencing the a difference for the climate. impact of climate changes differently. And some It can seem overwhelming what causes climate change, and places the effects are already deadly. Therefore, how each of us can make a difference for the environment. we have to change it, and we can! But we know that even small actions done by many, regardless of age, gender, status and nationality, can have a big impact. If we all start doing these small actions – like We now know that the climate changes can lead to death consider­ing again what we buy, turning off the light and and destruction among all living things, and some countries recycling – it will have an impact. experience climate change as life threatening already now. In Denmark, we have received knowledge about the con­ sequences of the changing climate, and every day we hear about the terrible state of the planet. This is very motivating: knowing what is needed to be done urgently. And we know Brighter future that it is possible to make a difference. We all have a responsibility in delivering a brighter future for the next generation. Let’s stand together and be the best generation we can be. The possibility The future motivates us, we would like it very much if future of change generations, a thousand years from now, will be able to read In Denmark we are noticing that the the history books and see what a difference our generation weather is changing, but we still eat, sleep, go to school and live well. In Ghana and Nigeria made. That is why we want to ensure that they can enjoy a every day is a struggle for many. functioning planet. This is what drives us to making the planet Children everywhere need support and a better place for all of us. knowledge from adults. If they don’t get it, they will not feel motivated. If children aren’t a call introduced to the possibility of making chang­ for action es they will not happen.

32 denmark denmarkGHana 33 In Ghana climate changes steal our daily bread ghana

In Africa we are probably emitting the smallest amount of CO2, but we are the most affected. In our video we mention our worries about the wild life of Ghana, the famines caused by droughts, and the irregular rain patterns which make it impossible for the farmers to plan their harvest. Climate changes have a huge impact on food production and sustainable livelihood.

Climate changes are visible every- the fact that climate change is something where, from Denmark to Nigeria. that concerns all of us. The young Nigerian In the films it was obvious that our three climate ambassadors were very much aware countries all experience climate changes in of the need for world leaders to protect the somewhat similar ways. Denmark men­ forests; but also to fight for the opportuni­ development issue for the government tioned longer heat periods during summer­ ty to cultivate crops in countries such as in Ghana. In an effort to support farm- time, whilst in Ghana and Nigeria there are Ghana and Nigeria. ers, ensure food security and increasing the investor confidence of the private droughts, which lead to famine and loss of In Nigeria the children were thus moti­ sector in the face of climate change plant species and agricultural products. Just vated by the fact that the climate changes variability as well as creating the ena- like in Ghana, Nigeria is also experiencing are part of their everyday lives. And they Concern Health bling environments for increase yields think that even the youngest pupils must be Education Project and assure farmers of the ready market intense changes in rain patterns, which sometimes lead to flooding. Denmark men­ made aware of climate changes in school. Purpose of the organization: To of their produce, the Concern Health promote environmental and health Education Project a registered not for tioned how they are experiencing extreme In Denmark motivation comes from knowing education in Ghana. Agriculture profit organisation assembles children storms, and that the sea level in time will rise that the world is going the wrong way, and ghana represents the most important sector from schools in Ghana as ambassadors in Climate Change and pose a threat. that the need to act and secure a better Nigeria of Ghana’s economy. Climate change and environmental sustainability is a Age of the participants: The children in Denmark talked about future is crucial. denmark major challenge to farmers and thus a 10 to 18 years the need to secure a sustainable future and

34 GHana ghana 35 how to motivate children and youths Global Climate Ambassadors

The future leaders Climate hunger We, the children of Ghana, are the future leaders In Ghana many children only rarely get a decent, of Ghana, and that is for us a major motivator; healthy meal. And when climate changes are knowing that we will one day inherit the country affecting our crops we need to do something. of Ghana. In Ghana many children come from poor homes and some Children only very rarely have a say in the decision making. can’t afford healthy, balanced meals. The climate changes But we are the leaders of tomorrow, and that is a big motiva­ are affecting our crops. When the rain doesn’t fall, and the tor for us in Ghana. Thus the Ghanaian children are saying: fields dry out, the farmers have a hard time producing enough Ask what we think, because our views can also help shape food. So we need to support our farmers so that they are able the future, that we in the long run will be taking care of for our to produce food for future generations. children.

Border crossing A shared responsibility Climate changes calls for more collaboration We experience the climate changes differently across borders, and it is important to work in our three counties, Denmark, Nigeria and Ghana. But we have one thing in common. We together as children of the world. all know what is wrong, and we all share the That motivates us. responsibility. Together we, the children of the world, If we all come together and share knowledge and resources, a call whether from Denmark, Ghana or Nigeria, for action we will be able to fight climate changes, but also by joining can change the world by sharing experiences our sisters and brothers in Europe in pursuing the common and developing smarter ways of dealing with goal. In our part of the world, what we can do is to keep the climate changes. pressure on our leaders to fight for our climate.

36 ghana ghanaGHana 37 Locally and globally nigeria

In our video we talk about how we experience climate change. Of course, we have the extra warm summer month which can cause droughts and be very harmful for children and their families. But there are also floods that lead to deceases like malaria. These horrible things compel us to work for the climate, locally as well as globally.

Future in sight consequences of the changing climate members for a better society and After having watched the Danish and the ranging from long dry summers to changes designing a comprehensive curricula Ghanaian films on how climate changes in snowfall due to continental climate varia­ on climate change for schools. To also develop multidisciplinary solutions for affect the two countries we were equally bility. In Denmark they are very much aware youths, to change their behaviors, shift inspired by how the videos showed our inter­ of the melting glaciers in the North Pole, societal norms and values. connectedness. not least because of the rising sea level. But RCE-Kano/CREACC-Nigeria To enable Nigerian children and We realized that here in Nigeria we are Denmark has also experienced flooding and young people develop the knowledge, val- Purpose of the two organizations: experiencing pretty much the same things heavy rainfall. Is to reorient children’s learning and ues and requisite skill sets to participate practice, teaching and collaboration on in the decision now without damaging as they do in Ghana. We are both experienc­ all three countries believe that with Education for Sustainable Development the planet for the future generation, to ing flooding, heavy rainfall, and in recent the absence of concerted global actions also include components of sustainability (ESD) which will cultivate knowledge, times also shortage of rain that has led to on climate change the problem will only values, attitudes and skills of youths all education for youths, develop good criti- food shortages and invariably food insecu­ get bigger, and the cost of damages and over the world. Education for Sustainable cal thinkers and systemic change agents Development support and make youths for them to serve as effective change rity. Ghana and Nigeria also experience the reconstructions will be enormous. We must socially, economically, and environmen- agents and make them a pillar for a human cost of climate-associated natural act now. Too much time has been wasted on nigeria tally responsible, and to become drivers sustainable future in an already hemor- rhaged, volatile and fragile Nigeria. disasters and a systematic, severe decrease discussions. It is now time to deal with the denmark of action for the sustainable future we want through a very rigorous training, Age of the participants: 12 to 18 in agricultural and farm produce. Denmark, changes that have already happened and to ghana that will prepare them to be contributing year-olds like other countries, also experiences the act with the future in sight.

38 GHana nigeria 39 how to motivate children and youths Global Climate Ambassadors

Climate diseases Wake up, Nigeria Children in Nigeria realize that there are diseases The children are motivated by the fact that there that are directly related to climate change. doesn’t exist any real climate policy in Nigeria. After a large flood the remaining water creates a new breed Because of the lack of policies on the subject the Nigerian of mosquitoes that causes malaria, the water also mix with children want to learn about climate change. Active the water that some communities drink. This leads to typhoid, participation from both children and adults can help vomiting and diarrhea. This motivates us to fight against the Nigeria developing a low carbon economy. Policy makers use of fossil fuel which equally increases the concentration of should come up with strategic policies on climate change greenhouse gas levels that damage the ozone layer. action in the country.

Get together The absence of joint efforts and actions to deal Listen to the children! with climate change will undoubtedly result in The children of Nigeria and Ghana are inspired catastrophic climate related ramifications. to act because the adults aren’t doing enough. They have witnessed the consequences in The children are concerned about what the climate will look their own communities, and this has made like in the coming decades. The discussions about climate a call ion them wonder. In Denmark it is pretty much the changes should challenge everyone, every country, to for act same thing. ex­amine the underlining principles, which will shape our The fact that we are children is definitely future, and think differently about the current system of a barrier. We aren’t the ones being interviewed unsustainable use of resources. on TV, despite the fact that we are going to inherit the planet.

40 nigeria nigeriaGHana 41 We still need adults to lead the way – adults still have time to become role models on climate change – but the time is running out and we will have to take over from you.

42 GHana GHana 43 zambia sweden An aware future zambia

In our villages women and children suffer the worst conse­ quences of the changing climate, droughts and floods for in­ stance. And it is frustrating that we, who suffer the most from the changing climate, are the ones who contribute the least. We want people to know about the causes and the effects of climate changes. But we are generally optimistic about a greener and much more aware future. We want to see a future that stops at nothing to turn things around.

awareness about climate change and present them with possible alternatives to adapt and mitigate its impacts. Unite4Climate aims to create climate change awareness throughout the 10 Healthier future provinces of Zambia, and also greater trash, not in the trash can but in nature. And HIV & AIDS prevention through ambas- In Sweden the ice melts, everything seems by continuing to do business as usual and Unite4Climate sador-led advocacy. Its launch, which to be heating up. This could eventually lead not caring about greenhouse gases and Zambia Program. occurred in April 2010 during the first to extinction of some animal species such ignoring the changes that are happening. Purpose of the organization: Zambian Children Climate Conference Unite4Climate Zambia is one of UNICEF (ZCCC), saw 164 delegates appointed as as polar bears, whilst in Zambia climate The Swedes were highly motivated. They Zambia’s child-led signature programs. Climate Ambassadors with the mandate change brings about droughts. Both coun­ have a passion for the environment and a Under the coordination of the Wildlife to spread the message of climate friendly tries have experienced floods during certain strong desire to help others. They want to & Environmental Conservation Society practices in their respective provinces. periods. Both countries are experiencing the have a safe place to live when they grow of Zambia (WECSZ), Unite4Climate Reaching up to 200 new child climate Zambia empowers young people with ambassadors through annual climate effects of climate change in one way or an­ up as well as a healthier future. Generally, tools, leadership skills, and knowledge on change conferences, the program has so other. And both countries are talking about they find the thinning of the ice cap and far trained more than 950 children as climate change and HIV/AIDS. the changing climate and its consequences. the floods that they are experiencing quite The knowledge and skills gained from climate ambassadors. We contribute to the negative effects alarming. this program are used by the climate am- Age of the participants: bassadors in their communities to raise 11 to 18 year-olds of climate changes simply by throwing our

44 GHana zambia 45 how to motivate children and youths Global Climate Ambassadors

Deforestation Hygiene and water The passion that we have for creating a difference has led us to engage our communities and schools conservation Because of droughts and problems we worked in anti-deforestation campaigns. effortlessly in our small communities to try and promote and practice water conservation. Realizing that Zambia is among the world’s most deforested countries in the world, the climate ambassadors have taken it upon themselves to carry out massive tree planting activi­ Ambassadors have carried out community-based water con­ ties in schools and communities where they live. The climate servation projects and initiatives. Others have embarked on ambassadors grow their own seedlings in their schools and projects that aim to train other children on how to wash their backyards which are later planted during the national tree hands properly. This is done in an attempt to help children planting campaign. uphold the highest standards of hygiene while conserving the water since Zambia is prone to unprecedented droughts which threatens water and food security.

Waste reduction The children of Zambia have worked on ways to reduce the amount of waste in their respective Empowered difference for the climate. Sweden has bril­ communities. and inspired liant ideas that can make a huge difference. One of the easiest ways to help the climate and environment One notable similarity is that both Zambian Zambia has however already begun doing and Swedish young people are passionate hands-on climate change initiatives that is simply to pick up the trash, put it in a trash can or, if possi­ about their cause and they want to make a aim to fight and adapt to the consequences ble, recycle it. This motivated us to embark on a massive of climate change. recycling campaign dubbed, ‘my waste, my treasure,’ in which young people feel empowered and old non-biodegradable plastics were put to new use by inspired when they take the lead in any cli­ making different artifacts as well as making school bags. mate initiatives, so adult influences should basically only be of the guiding kind.

a call ion for act

46 nigeria nigeriaGHana 47 sweden zambia Extreme weather and flooding sweden

We are experiencing climate changes, for instance as heavy rainfalls and the flood that struck Malmö, our home town, re­ cently. We know that the ice around the poles is melting, and thus the water level is rising, which will affect a lot of animals and people globally.

In this project we hope to meet new friends who are as keen as us to combat climate change. And if everyone makes small changes, together we can make a big difference. If everyone is willing to help, we can make the world a better place.

Climate Ambassadors Climate change Program, Malmö, suffer the consequences. Instead of taking Öresundsklassrummet is everyday life in Zambia the car we can go by bike or walk. Locally we Purpose of the organization: In Sweden we don’t experience the con­ recycle, but globally we have big industries, Through Öresundsklassrummet the sequences of the changing climate to use motorcycles and cars when we don’t City of Malmö and the City of Copen- the same degree as the countries more have to. hagen aim to increase and facilitate Education for Sustainable Develop- southern, such as Zambia. When it doesn’t Children in Zambia don’t want to make ment in the region of Öresund. The rain and the sun is drying out everything in the same mistakes as the generations Climate Ambassadors Program aims to Zambia the food is being destroyed, while before them. The climate changes affect increase youth participation in society; for a sustainable development. in Sweden we just jump into our cars, put them daily, and they want as many people Öresundsklassrummet is partly on the air-condition and drive to the store, as possible to care. They want people to get funded by the European Regional which is not very thoughtful. The similari­ motivated to help. They want the children to Development Fund through the Inter- ties are the heavy rainfalls that affect both believe in the opportunity for a better future. reg IVA Öresund-Kattegat-Skagerrak program. countries. They live in a part of the world that is very Age of the participants: 12 to 14 In Sweden we drive cars, we fly and drive affected by climate changes. And they don’t year-olds motorcycles. But it is Africa and Asia that have a choice.

48 GHana sweden 49 how to motivate children and youths Global Climate Ambassadors

Climate Smart Social Media Football Persuades We’ll host a football tournament with famous role A lot of young people use social media every day, models who inspire children to be climate smart, and we can use that to make the children aware to be conscious and aware of what is going on of the larger benefits of recycling. around them, all around the globe. Our idea is to invite people, children especially, to snap a It would motivate children if famous football players take part selfie when they are standing beside a trash can ready to in a tournament, and then more people will come to watch recycle. They should tag two friends and place a hash-tag and make donations to climate friendly organizations. Then #reproduce14 under the photo. In that way they pass on the Zlatan Ibrahimovic, for example, can tell everybody why they assignment like a chain letter. It is not only great fun, it should be climate smart and why it is so important. will also give you the chance to win a bicycle.

Don’t be lazy The Champion The children from both Sweden and Zambia want to recycle. We are only thinking about of Recycling it. The Zambians are actually doing it. Everyone likes to win! We’ll make an app where lack of time and laziness are two major people can play together and compete: Who is the obstacles for especially young people’s master of climate smartness? engagement in the climate debate. This is why young people must understand what is We will make a gaming app about recycling that will find the going to happen with the earth if we don’t climate master. The winners might end up in the newspaper. do something now. And famous people can This is a huge motivator; who does not want to have their face work as role models for the climate. displayed in a newspaper and be “famous” and be crowned as a call The Super Recycler, The master of Recycling or for action The Champion of Recycling!?

50 sweden swedenGHana 51 partners The Global Climate Ambassadors 2014

Belgium Gertrude Khourt Ebba Jammeh Sophia Inge Soewarta Kwadwo Adom Tete Alice Skrgic Marc Wandel-Petersen Kwamena Adu Osei Claudia Matkowska Raphael Michael Bostaji Eugene Atikpo Ward Lykke Vinquist Mia Ekstrom Hansen Edmund sagoe Maya Carlsson Rebecca Learie Charkley Amerley Eunice Rebecka Rajic Natascha Lena Gray Borchmann Yoofi Nyamedom Sey Ali Almindlawy Elizabeth Fihl Vetting Ivan Sesi Ahiabor Aliyah Bergström Johanna Koefoed Quinn Shirley Biney Edon Shosha Ida Augusta Zilmer-Johns Ephraim Atzuetteh Mensah Hevi Hama Amin Yasmine Loft El Adib Ann Accorley Samir Huseini Jonas Balsby Ilmari Joshua Quaye. Rosalina Bergenfelt Dionelis Console Amedator Zambia Charlotte Marissal Ashely Lungu Zeline Rosa Vega Viera India Brian Chinchi Akarsh Dash Chali Chisanga Denmark Aditya Dalmia Chuma Kamenda Siw Rønne Apple Gautami Govindrajan Davies Simbaya Nana Haislund Hansen Pranav Manie Dorcus Kalusa Natalia Paez de la Rosa Surya Kiran Gift Mwansa Klara Emilie Møller Larsen Hildah Nanyangwe Asger Lange Nigeria Iness Gondwe Theo Rønne Appel Khalid Muhd Saleh John Mutale Rasmus Engelhardt Lund Fatima Ahmad Bukar John Nyembe Markus Gerner Van Deurs Divine Cyril Joseph Kashiba Signe Keller Madsen Mubarak Muhammad Kedrick Chileshe Emilie Sørensen Abdulwahab Kwaccido Lincoln Kapata Julie Skjoldan Joy Moses Lukumba Sinyangwe Emma Brag Aisha Muhammed Wakili Maria Ngulube Victor Felix Johnson Husna Usman Da’u Mervis Musonda Sawsan Zaabalawi Habiba Ibrahim Salisu Namwila Kachasa Hafsat Galadima Precious Nachinsambwe Ghana Ibrahim Maitama Suzyo Phiri Elikem Amegah Shuaibu A Kwaccido Thandiwe Shakela Lois Afia Agbemavi Aminu Muhammed Nura Twaambo Sindamu Jennifer Nana Ambah Aggrey Aisha Nuhu Bello Augustina Dartebea Safori Said Abashe Saidu Appiah Emefa Anthonia Usman M. Da’u Appiah Seyram Rodel Umaima Idris Dawud Sampson Kofi Lawson Aisha M. Idris Christiana Danso Acheampong Ubaida Napari Abdulai Sweden 52 GHana GHana 53 ghana

india

denmark

Belgium

nigeria

zambia sweden

54 GHana GHana 55 We know that fighting climate change CAN be fun and engaging. It does not need to be long reports, graphs and numbers form serious men in suits.

The Climate Ambassador Education The Department for Sustainable Development City of Copenhagen Denmark Tel.: +45 24 98 58 53 E-mail: [email protected]

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