Engage Locally and Set the Stage for Dialogue

The influence of youth on climate action starts locally. Meeting with ministers and local leaders and attending city-level environmental councils can help young advocates build the relationships and knowledge necessary to engage at COP effectively. Rather than viewing leaders as opponents, youth can approach them as partners in dialogue, collaborating to shape Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs)—the commitments each country makes to reduce emissions and meet climate goals. NDCs 3.0, the next phase of these commitments, will be finalized by February, making now a crucial time for youth to push for ambitious, measurable change.

Leverage the Avocado Plan to Advocate for a Clean Energy Transition

One way to make an impact is by using frameworks like the "Avocado Plan" as position papers for COP discussions. This can serve as a guide for advocating a clean energy transition, focusing on equitable fossil fuel phase-out strategies. Youth can ask how their countries plan to ensure that this transition is fair and inclusive. They can also suggest ways for youth to be part of the process, bringing accountability, fresh ideas, and bold ambition to the table.

Push for the New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG) to Support Developing Nations

The NCQG is critical, especially for developing countries, as it sets the target for the funds needed to address the climate crisis worldwide. Young people in developed countries can ask their governments tough questions on how they’re contributing to this fund and holding them accountable for scaling up support. For those worried about climate-driven migration, NCQG funds can play a key role in improving energy access and fostering just transitions in developing nations. Redirecting fossil fuel subsidies to these funds could be a valuable move, and youth can advocate for such redirection to ensure resources go where they’re most needed.

Champion Loss and Damage Compensation with Youth Inclusion

The second key focus of the Avocado Plan is addressing Loss and Damage—the irreversible climate impacts already affecting vulnerable communities. The recently established Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage (FrLD), hosted by the World Bank, aims to support those bearing the brunt of climate disasters. However, operational obstacles risk channeling funds into bureaucracy rather than to those in need. Advocating for direct youth involvement in the management of this fund could streamline its effectiveness, allowing for immediate, grassroots action and youth-driven solutions that reach affected communities.

Promote Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) and Biodiversity Conservation

Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) focus on preserving and restoring ecosystems to fight climate change. Supported by the UNEA resolution 5/5, these solutions provide an avenue to integrate biodiversity into climate action at COP. Youth groups already working on reforestation, conservation, and urban greening projects can use NBS as leverage to seek funding and push for national commitments that align with biodiversity goals. Through NDCs, countries can formally adopt these strategies, and youth voices can ensure they stay on track.

The NCQG also plays a role here, as it facilitates grant-based funding for these initiatives. Youth can advocate for grants directed specifically at intergenerational projects, giving them the resources needed to scale up their impact.

COP is more than a conference—it’s a platform for transformative change. Youth have a critical role to play in pushing for bold policies, ensuring financial support for vulnerable communities, and holding leaders accountable. By engaging locally, advocating with strategic frameworks like the Avocado Plan, and pressing for actionable commitments, young people can drive real progress on the world’s most pressing climate issues. With persistence, collaboration, and clear goals, youth can transform their COP participation into a force for global change.