Youth Stepping up to their role

"What could be more important than the future of our world?

Youth demanding clean environment

As young people, we have the most at stake, so we should be stepping up to our roles as the major stakeholders and stand

up for the kind of future we want." -PauPau, TakingITGlobal member, Philippines

On the 11th February 2012, Vaal Working Class Cordinating Committee youth held their first meeting after attending COP 17 in Durban. The purpose of the meeting was to share their experices of COP 17 and how can they be actively invloved in environmental issues.

Some did not have an idea of what was going to happened in Durban, however later during the conference they finally understood what COP17 was all about. They have learned that climate is happening and its not only happening in South Africa.

Youth meeting in Sebokeng

They have also learned that Climate change is considered to be one of the most serious threats to sustainable development, with the adverse impact expected on the environment, human health, food security, economical activities, natural resources and physical infrastructures. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the effects of climate change have already been observed, and scientific indicate that precautionary and prompt action is necessary.

The youth is ready to take action because they are living close to polluting companies such as ArcelorMittal, Samancor and Sasol. Adding to the problem of pollution in the Vaal is domestic Coal burning and illegal waste dumps everywhere. The very same youth took part on the Walk for Climate Change from Vanderbiljpark to Sasol. The walk was organised by Vaal Environmental Justice Alliance on the 19th December 2012. After this long walk they particpated in the the community meeting that took place in Zamdela on the same day.

Our youth in Durban on global of Action

The youth agreed to establish a study group that will meet monthly, where they will discuss various topics and plan actions for a specific issues. Veja will provide material for discussion and will provide support. Dudu Diphoko  and Sydney will lead the study group.