Written by Ms. So Chuen Yan, Angel, Year 1 Student of the Geography and Resources Management (GRMG) Concentration Studies and Recreation Officer of the Gravel GRMG Society
As a student passionate about climate change and sustainability, I was honoured to participate in the Local Conference of Youth (LCOY Hong Kong), a two-day summit that brought together youth climate leaders, environmental professionals, policymakers, and sustainability advocates. The event provided a valuable opportunity to learn, exchange ideas, and explore how young people can contribute to climate solutions locally and globally.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
The conference featured inspiring talks on the climate crisis and policy responses. Experts discussed the growing likelihood of global temperatures exceeding the 1.5°C target under the Paris Agreement and introduced Hong Kong’s Climate Action Plan 2050, which aims to reduce emissions from power generation, transport, and waste management.
A particularly thought-provoking topic was climate intersectionality, which highlighted how climate change is closely linked to social issues such as gender equality, public health, and community resilience. These discussions broadened my understanding of the diverse ways climate change affects different groups within society.
Experiencing Climate Solutions First-Hand
Beyond the talks, the summit offered a variety of interactive workshops. I participated in a low-carbon mobility board game that demonstrated how urban planning and transportation choices can reduce carbon emissions. Another workshop introduced the concept of food forests through a tea appreciation activity, helping participants reconnect with nature and explore sustainable lifestyles.
One of the most memorable experiences was the “Survival Mode” role-playing workshop. Participants assumed different gender and socioeconomic identities while responding to climate-related disaster scenarios. The activity highlighted how vulnerable communities often face greater challenges during environmental crises and reinforced the importance of equity and inclusion in climate action.
Rethinking Climate Change
Before attending LCOY Hong Kong, I mainly viewed climate change through scientific data and environmental statistics. However, the summit helped me realise that climate change is also a social and psychological challenge.
Climate anxiety is increasingly affecting people's well-being, particularly among young people, while vulnerable communities around the world continue to experience the impacts of extreme weather and environmental degradation. This experience reminded me that climate action is ultimately about protecting people, promoting justice, and building resilient communities.
Youth as Present-Day Change-Makers
One message that resonated deeply with me was:
“Young people do not hold the future in their hands — they hold the present.”
This powerful statement reminded me that youth are not simply future leaders; we can create meaningful change today.
The summit also showcased youth-led policy proposals for Hong Kong, including better protection for outdoor workers during extreme heat, improved management of retired electric vehicle batteries, and the promotion of Nature-based Solutions (NbS) to enhance climate resilience and biodiversity conservation.
From Knowledge to Action
Participating in LCOY Hong Kong was an inspiring and transformative experience. As a Geography and Resources Management (GRMG) student, I was encouraged to move beyond awareness and put knowledge into action.
While climate anxiety is a growing concern, I have learned that it can also be a source of motivation. By taking action in the present and working together, young people can help build a more sustainable, resilient, and equitable future.
Official website of LCOY Hong Kong:
https://www.ccinnolab.org/lcoy/en/
