Faiza Tehseen

A robust support system – encompassing education, mentorship, ample funding, and policy support – is necessary to unleash the youth’s potential against climate change, said Abid Qaiyum Suleri, Executive Director of the Sustainable Development Policy Institute (SDPI), in an interview with WealthPK.

“To cope with pressing environmental challenges, youth-driven climate innovation is crucial. Across Pakistan, young innovators are developing solutions to water convervation, sustainable agriculture, and waste management. Innovations concerning environmental projects will positively contribute to the nation’s green economy and help address urban environmental challenges,” he said. Investment in the said areas will harness the youth’s potential in climate innovation and adaptability, positioning Pakistan competitively on the global innovation landscape.

Abid said, “Despite all efforts to provide best scientific and technical assistance, the lack of a comprehensive support system is eclipsing the sustainability and scalability of youth-led climate initiatives. Besides equipping the youth with green skills to manage urbanization in an eco-friendly manner, they must be provided with exposure visits, expert mentorship, and sufficient funding so that they may transform their ideas into prominent startups.”

He called for policy support and international recognition to enhance the youth’s capacity in climate governance and advocacy. It will further underscore the importance of youth involvement in climate action initiatives, he added. In Pakistan, platforms like the National Incubation Centres (NICs) foster a conducive environment to help the youth in green entrepreneurship.

He said, “Pakistan urgently needs to move from planning to implementation to deliver results. To explore viable mechanisms for monetizing environmental performance and emissions reduction, global partnership is crucial for potential carbon markets.” Dr. Abid further told WealthPK that launching collaborative knowledge projects—through capacity-building workshops and policy-based climate loans—is important.

This would not only enhance institutional effectiveness for youth engagement, but also raise public awareness of environmental and climate challenges. Joint ventures in climate financing and investments can be the best tool to mobilize substantial resources toward sustainable development. In this concern, Pakistan can get expertise and technical coordination from friendly countries, particularly China, added Dr. Abid.    

Talking about the importance of well-planned support systems for youth-led climate innovation, environmentalist Dr. Muhammad Akbar said, “No doubt, it can be a good initiative if our young generation gets smart incubation facilities, financial support, and proper guidance. It will also help them develop competitive eco-friendly projects and gain international attention.”He said young people are the leaders of tomorrow, and their energetic perspectives, energy, and creativity can make a vital contribution to addressing environmental issues.

Although they are equipped with modern scientific education and smart skills, a lack of access to capital is seriously hindering their progress in tackling climate challenges. “Policymakers must consider this aspect and plan strategically to harness young human capital. It is important for the green economic future and for generations to come,” added Muhammad Akbar.

Credit: INP-WealthPk