COP29: How Ed-Tech Is Empowering Younger Generations to Become Change-Makers on Climate and Freedom of Mobility

Summary:

• The average age of world leaders is around 60⁽¹⁾, making younger voices less represented in decision-making. Access to educational technologies enables new generations to bring meaningful change and ideas to tackle today’s urgent problems.
• Climate tech ventures are helping younger generations access education and leverage youth empowerment.
• Climate change is one of the most significant barriers to freedom, imposing limitations that affect physical mobility and connectivity and reduce social and professional opportunities.

Freedom of Mobility Forum (FOMF): What commitments from COP29 do you believe will have the most impact on freedom of mobility, and do you believe these align with the expectations of young generations?

Okan: Freedom of mobility embodies the ability to connect with people and territories. This very notion of connectivity lies at the heart of COP29’s mission to unite the world in addressing climate change and ensure a sustainable future for our planet.

Climate change is one of the most significant barriers to freedom, imposing limitations that affect physical mobility as well as social and professional opportunities. To dismantle these barriers, humanity must overcome the accelerating effects of climate change — a challenge rooted in the decisions of past generations, leaving younger generations to deal with the consequences.

At COP29, also called the “Finance COP,” decisive actions were taken to pass the baton from older to younger generations. The event highlighted the financial measures necessary to fight against climate change and aligning with the demands of younger generations, who are becoming increasingly vocal, passionate, and determined to address this crisis.

Three main commitments were agreed upon:

1. $300 billion in annual climate financing for developing countries: This funding is a crucial first step, opening doors for green business initiatives, renewable energy investments, and technology transfers, especially in emerging markets.

2. $120 billion annually for multilateral development banks: These funds aim to shift global energy consumption from fossil fuels to renewables, helping industries transition to greener economies.

3. Operationalization of the Loss and Damages Fund: This fund supports recovery efforts after climate-related disasters, focusing on proactive solutions rather than just reactionary measures.

COP29’s financial pledges shift our approach from “saving the day” to “securing the future for the next century.” Empowered by the outcomes of COP29, younger generations face the challenge of defining the planet they wish to pass on. The financial commitments made during this conference represent a shift in mindset, prioritizing proactive and forward-looking solutions.

FOMF: How can young people actively hold governments accountable for the pledges made at COP29 and to ensure real change?

Okan: With the average age of world leaders around 60, younger voices often lack representation in decision-making. This disparity makes it harder to drive meaningful change, as entrenched mindsets can block the new ideas needed to tackle today’s urgent problems.

To move forward, governments must balance the experience of older generations with the passion and innovative skills of younger ones. Green and digital skills, vital in the 21st century, can enrich policymaking. While young people don’t necessarily need to take the driver’s seat, they should have a meaningful role in shaping decisions that directly impact their future. A mentorship model could foster this synergy. Younger generations should be empowered to lead discussions and initiatives, while older leaders offer guidance, ensuring decisions are grounded. This approach leverages the energy and creativity of younger generations and pairs it with the wisdom and experience of older generations.

As this vision becomes a reality, young leaders can collaborate with governments to align policies with the SDGs. By planting these seeds today, we can cultivate a future that prioritizes sustainability.
 

FOMF: Following COP29, what are the most effective ways to integrate freedom of mobility into climate strategies?

Okan: As we look forward to COP30, the key to breaking the cycle of revisiting the same climate challenges year after year lies in one word: action. While government-level initiatives often face limitations, individuals hold the potential to drive change: acting consistently can create a significant collective impact. Responsible freedom of mobility empowers individuals to make sustainable choices. Adopting low-carbon lifestyles, embracing green tourism, or choosing second-hand products are tangible steps toward reducing our environmental footprint. In addition to contributing to the protection of the planet, these habits also provide the legitimacy to require alignment of governments and international organizations: sustainability is a shared responsibility, grounded in integrity and coherence.
 

At Carbon Gate, Okan and his team are accelerating decarbonization in the industrial sector by collaborating with industry leaders and showcasing sustainable models. By uniting personal responsibility with shared advocacy, they aim to create a significant collective impact.

⁽¹⁾ Wall Street Journal, Why the World’s Leaders Are Getting Older (May 2024), The Median World Leader Is 62 Years Old. How Old Is Too Old?