Youth-led environmental justice: A global force against hazardous waste and pollution
- Mei Kimura
- Jun 9
- 3 min read
As the world grapples with the escalating crisis of hazardous chemicals and waste, youth-led environmental justice movements are emerging as powerful agents of change. These initiatives align closely with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and SDG 13 (Climate Action), by addressing environmental injustices and advocating for sustainable practices.
Global picture of pollution: Country-level insights
Pollution remains a pressing issue globally, with regional disparities highlighting the urgency for targeted action:
· India: Ranks among the most polluted countries, with New Delhi repeatedly recording the worst air quality globally due to industrial emissions and vehicular pollution.
· China: While improving, China still faces severe air and water pollution, though initiatives like the “War on Pollution” have led to a 29% reduction in PM2.5 levels from 2013 to 2021.
· United States: Faces challenges with chemical waste and plastics, with an estimated 42 million metric tons of plastic waste generated annually.
· Mozambique: Struggles with inadequate hazardous waste management, exacerbating environmental health risks in low-income communities.
Globally, it is estimated that 11 million metric tons of plastic enter oceans annually, a figure projected to triple by 2040 without intervention.
Youth-led initiatives combating hazardous waste
From grassroots to global, young environmental leaders are not only reacting but redefining climate justice:
· Bye Bye Plastic Bags (Indonesia): Founded by Melati and Isabel Wijsen, it achieved a historic ban on plastic bags in Bali and inspired similar actions across Southeast Asia.
· Youth vs. Apocalypse (USA): A Bay Area coalition that links climate issues with racial and economic justice, influencing local policies and educational reform.
· Green Africa Youth Organization (Ghana): Their Zero Waste Accra Project exemplifies community-driven solutions, now scaling with Earthshot Prize backing.
Education as a catalyst
Schools and NGOs worldwide are embedding environmental justice into curricula:
· Eco-Schools Programme (Global): Implemented in over 60 countries, engaging 19 million students in sustainability-focused actions and projects.
· Plastic Tide Turners (Kenya, India, etc.): A UN Environment Programme initiative engaging youth in ocean conservation and waste reduction.
· Environmental Education Centres (Sweden, Australia): These centres deliver immersive experiences in waste management, biodiversity, and pollution control.
Such activities foster early awareness and shape future eco-conscious citizens.
Strategies and the impact of youth action
Key tactics include:
· Community mobilisation through clean-ups and workshops
· Policy lobbying for better waste laws
· Legal challenges against negligent corporations
· Digital activism as a force multiplier
Digital activism: A new era of education and mobilisation
Social media and digital platforms are transforming environmental advocacy:
· Campaigns like #FridaysForFuture and #BreakFreeFromPlastic amplify youth voices to a global audience.
· Platforms such as TikTok and Instagram are utilised to educate, organise events, and inspire action among millions.
· Virtual workshops, webinars, and climate education games provide accessible learning experiences, particularly in regions with limited environmental curricula.
Digital activism not only fosters a broader reach but cultivates a digitally native generation of activists equipped with communication tools to effect real-world change.
The role of global society and collaboration
International collaboration remains vital. By aligning youth initiatives with institutional support from bodies like the UNEP, UNICEF, and regional alliances, the impact of these movements grows exponentially. Building networks across borders ensures shared knowledge, resources, and unified global action.
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