Intergenerational inclusion in the sustainability discourse

“Empowering the younger generation today is planting the seeds of a brighter, sustainable tomorrow.”

Integrating the younger generation into the sustainability discourse is vital if we aim for a sustainable future. Engaging younger generations includes a multi-faceted approach to policy formulation, education, curriculum, and local initiatives. As there is a higher rate of climate change in Switzerland compared to the global average it is important to have an eco-conscious younger generation.

Switzerland is risking more extreme weather events with heavier precipitation, drier summers, and hotter days as well as winters with less snow - Glaciers in the Swiss Alps are shrinking at an alarming rate. Since 1850 half of the volume and 30 to 40% of the surface area of glaciers was lost. Since 1980 another 10 to 20% of the volume disappeared. As it is a wealthy country the carbon footprint of Swiss people is above the worldwide average. Switzerland imports foreign goods and relies on fossil fuels for heating and transportation although a lot of the electricity is powered by renewables. 

Policy formulation

Swiss policymakers can establish youth advisory councils or forums specifically focused on sustainability. These platforms would enable young people to contribute their ideas, concerns, and recommendations to the development of sustainable policies. Encouraging collaboration between governmental bodies and youth organizations can ensure that the policies align with the priorities and aspirations of the younger generation.

Furthermore, it would motivate young adults to vote for more sustainable laws when they reach the age of 18. Empowering young leaders through mentorship and leadership programs equips them with the skills and confidence to drive sustainability initiatives. Encouraging youth to take on leadership roles in local organizations, schools, and community groups enables them to develop valuable skills in communication, teamwork, and project management. 

Education

Integrating sustainability education into formal and informal learning environments is essential. By incorporating concepts of sustainability, climate change, biodiversity, and resource management into school curricula, students can develop a deep understanding of these issues from an early age. Interdisciplinary approaches that connect subjects like science, social studies, and economics can provide a holistic view of sustainability challenges. The younger generation is well-versed in technology and digital communication.

Leveraging social media, online platforms, and digital tools can help amplify their voices in sustainability discourse. These platforms can be used for awareness campaigns, knowledge-sharing, virtual events, and collaborative projects, enabling young people to connect and engage with peers globally. Given Switzerland's technological advancements, leveraging digital platforms can enhance youth engagement. Developing interactive apps, online forums, and virtual events can provide young people with spaces to learn, discuss, and collaborate on sustainability issues.

Swiss technology companies could contribute to the creation of innovative tools that empower youth to take action. Art, music, literature, and other forms of cultural expression can serve as powerful mediums for conveying sustainability messages. Encouraging young artists, writers, and performers to use their talents to raise awareness about environmental issues can engage wider audiences and inspire action.

Curriculum

Adapting curricula to include sustainability-related topics can foster a sense of responsibility and understanding among younger generations. This can be achieved by incorporating real-world case studies, interactive projects, and problem-solving exercises related to sustainability. Encouraging critical thinking, systems analysis, and ethical considerations within the curriculum can help students become active participants in sustainability discourse.

Schools should incorporate sustainable workshops in the curriculum where daily sustainable practices are introduced to students such as ways to minimise waste and greener travel choices. This could encourage young people to take a bike or public transport to work later on and to turn off the light when they leave the room, switch off electrical gadgets, or have the water turned off when they brush their teeth. 

Local initiatives

Engaging youth in local sustainability initiatives empowers them to create positive change in their communities. Youth-led projects, such as community gardens, waste reduction campaigns, and renewable energy projects, not only address local environmental issues but also provide young people with hands-on experience in sustainability practices. These initiatives nurture a sense of ownership and pride in their contributions to a greener future. Localities could introduce a monthly market where everyone can sell old stuff that is still intact but not of use to that individual anymore.

Towns could gift seeds to the inhabitant to encourage them to plant more trees and flowers in their gardens. It's important to ensure that the sustainability discourse is inclusive and representative of diverse perspectives. Efforts should be made to involve youth from different backgrounds, cultures, and socio-economic conditions, ensuring that their voices are heard and their unique experiences are valued.

In conclusion, the sustainability discourse involves a multi-faceted approach that includes policy engagement, education, curriculum development, local initiatives, technology, leadership, and cultural expression. Tailoring these approaches to Switzerland's unique socio-cultural and environmental context will strengthen the integration of the younger generation into the sustainability discourse, fostering a more sustainable future for the country. By actively involving young people in these areas, society can harness their energy, creativity, and passion to drive meaningful change towards a more sustainable future.

References:

1. Crea Mont Blanc; Research Center for Alpine Ecosystems. (2021). CLIMATE CHANGE AND ITS IMPACTS IN THE ALPS. Accessed 29. Aug. 2023 on https://creamontblanc.org/en/climate-change-and-its-impacts-alps/#:~:text=With%20rising%20temperatures%2C%20mid%2Daltitude,volume%20having%20disappeared%20since%201980.
2. Geneva Environment Network. (2023). Unleashing the power of youth through Education: Sustainable solutions for a Better Future | RFSD2023. Accessed 31. Aug. 2023 on https://www.genevaenvironmentnetwork.org/events/unleashing-the-power-of-youth-through-education-sustainable-solutions-for-a-better-future-rfsd2023/