Future generations cannot voice their concerns. They can neither shape the decisions nor vote for the leaders that will decide their fate. Therefore, it is necessary for us and current decision-makers to ensure that we keep children, and those not yet born, front of mind as they pioneer sustainable development pathways. 

We need leaders to act in service of future generations in order for young people to become sustainability leaders and environmental champions, green education must extend beyond the four walls of the classroom, and into the natural world.

A climate justice approach to policymaking requires us to look beyond short-term political cycles, or myopic decision-making, to develop plans that ensure all people enjoy the right to development and that the well-being of future generations is not compromised by unchecked climate change.

The role of green leaders of the next generation will be crucial for addressing the environmental challenges of our time and building a sustainable future for all. These leaders will need to have a deep understanding of the complex interplay between social, economic, and environmental factors, and be able to develop and implement innovative solutions that can meet the needs of both people and the planet.

One key aspect of the role of green leaders will be to promote sustainable development practices that balance economic growth with environmental protection. This will involve identifying and implementing new approaches to energy, transportation, agriculture, and other sectors that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and minimize environmental impacts.

Green leaders will also need to play a crucial role in educating and mobilizing communities to take action on environmental issues. This will involve working with a wide range of stakeholders, including governments, businesses, civil society groups, and individuals, to build support for sustainable practices and promote a shift towards a more sustainable society.

In addition, green leaders of the next generation will need to be able to think creatively and find new ways to address complex environmental challenges. This will involve exploring new technologies, developing new policies and practices, and fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in the green sector.

Overall, the role of green leaders of the next generation will be to lead the way in building a sustainable future for all. They will need to be visionary, collaborative, and able to navigate complex systems to achieve their goals. With their dedication and commitment, we can build a more sustainable, equitable, and prosperous future for generations to come.

The first step to protecting future generations is to act on climate change with urgency so that all people can realise their right to development in a sustainable manner.

Developed countries must become servant leaders to ensure that all countries are able to take the action required nationally to tackle climate change robustly while enabling inclusive global co-operation that supports the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.

There is need to give voice to those too young to advocate for themselves, and those not yet born, so that our decisions now are taken in full awareness of their impact on future lives. Such representation for future generations would operationalise existing commitments made by UN member countries in UN treaties and resolutions, such as the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development or the Paris Climate Agreement, recalibrating intergenerational balance and filling the gap between intent and practice.

To bridge the chasm that exists between our present day actions and the well-being of future generations, we need servant leaders, dedicated to ensuring that all people can live lives underpinned by dignity and rights, today and into the future.

References 

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/inspiring-next-generation-environmental-leaders-steven-king

https://www.imd.org/ibyimd/videos/next-gen-leaders-hold-key-to-faster-progress-on-sustainability/