Now What Do We Do?

A wise old man told me yesterday, “we are at the Super Bowl of climate change.”  Although there are no men strong enough to bench press me while running after an oddly shaped ball, the concept still stands.  COP23 is being held for the numerous nations across the globe to engage in an universal concern for the future of the Earth. Two years ago, a weight was lifted from the frustration behind what goals are needed that will be fair to to each country and to the planet.  The Paris Agreement cemented these objectives, a great achievement long overdue, but the celebration must come to a halt, and more work needs to be done.  This year our climate change challenge inspires the content within the sessions to discuss both individual and universal truths about the issue. An example I have followed is the stubbornness of countries that rely on coal mining to change to cleaner energy.

On Earth Day this year, the Philippines ratified the Paris Agreement, currently preparing their Nationally Determined Contributions to be announced during the first quarter of next year.  As of last year the Philippines relied on coal for 40% of their energy.  To address this, acts and regulations pushed their way through the government system- emerging as a strong stance for clean and renewable energy. The Green Jobs Act, as found in the website the Official Gazette, gives a wide variety of stakeholders the opportunity to unite and discuss their positions in round-table discussions that were held in June.  An important discovery through these conversations highlights the concern for the transition of those who hold jobs with coal mines, and how they will maintain a stable income after the decision to close these plants.  People are actively trying to fight the dependence their government sets on this energy source, discussing (and still discussing) frameworks for plans and jobs of their population.  From this the Philippines realized they need to gradually create greener workplaces.  When undergoing these processes the workers receive 50% tax breaks, and become certified for their actions and practices when done correctly.  These measures send a sense of relief that families with careers directly affected by coal mining will be financially stable with the transition to renewable energy.

The group meeting with the Prime Minister of Fiji and President of COP23

At this conference, we can feel the tension between nations.  As speakers express their opinions, contributions, and knowledge, passion effectively debunks those against climate change action.  We have already found multiple opportunities for youth like us to engage in the fight against climate change. Today has been distinctly chosen as a day for delegates to speak out about youth participation in climate justice, and my classmates and I are leaving today's conference day feeling empowered. Walking around the pavilions and exhibitions, all of us have been recognized for how young we are, and they express their excitement for involving ourselves in this major event. With business cards in hand, the connections we are making contain the possibility to establish building blocks for our future.
Grace G.