Eco Clean Active Initiative at COP27: Amplifying Youth Voices on the Global Stage

In November 2022, global attention turned to Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt, as climate leaders, youth advocates, and policymakers gathered for two major events: the Conference of Youth (COY17) and the 27th UN Climate Change Conference (COP27). These back-to-back gatherings played a critical role in shaping conversations and actions around the global climate crisis.

COY17, held just ahead of COP27, served as a dynamic platform for young people to engage, collaborate, and develop unified positions on key climate issues. It ensured that youth perspectives were not only heard but also integrated into the formal negotiation processes under the UNFCCC. Following this, COP27- held from November 6th to 18th—focused on translating climate commitments into concrete action, with strong emphasis on adaptation, mitigation, climate justice, and notably, Loss and Damage finance for vulnerable nations.

Eco Clean Active Initiative (ECA) was proudly represented at both COY17 and COP27. At COY17, our delegate actively contributed to youth-led dialogues and policy inputs, helping shape recommendations that fed into the global climate agenda. At COP27, ECA participated as a youth delegate, representing the voices of over 200 million Nigerians and amplifying perspectives from the Global South.

Our engagement centered on advocating for urgent climate action and pushing for equitable solutions, particularly in securing Loss and Damage finance for communities most affected by climate change. We joined global campaigns, engaged in strategic discussions, and connected with key stakeholders, including the European Parliament delegation. In these engagements, we shared grassroots experiences from Nigeria and offered practical, community-driven solutions to climate challenges.

The impact of our participation was significant. We strengthened the presence of youth and grassroots voices in international climate spaces, contributed to ongoing advocacy efforts, and built valuable partnerships with global actors. Importantly, the knowledge and insights gained from COP27 have continued to inform our local initiatives, enhancing our capacity to drive meaningful climate action and build resilient communities.

As we reflect on COP27, one thing is clear: youth are not just participants in climate conversations - they are leaders, innovators, and drivers of change. Eco Clean Active Initiative remains committed to ensuring that these voices continue to shape a more just and sustainable future.