Anthony Lee, a 19-year-old climate advocate from Singapore, recently attended the United Nations Climate Change Conference, COP30, in Belem, Brazil, making him one of the youngest delegates there.
Stepping off the shuttle, the warm Brazilian air hit me hard. I adjusted my suit, feeling the chaos around me. Reporters rushed by, while youth delegates fanned themselves in the heat. Each delegate had their own story, and together we filled the venue with diverse voices demanding climate action and justice.
As I entered the Hangar Convention Center, I spotted the iconic UN logo. This wasn’t just another event; it was where impactful agreements like the Paris Agreement took shape. I was representing my country and the voices of young people back home. It felt overwhelming, but it solidified my commitment to make a difference in climate advocacy.
Five delegates from Singapore attended COP30. Together, we were responsible for leading discussions at various pavilions and observing international negotiations. My work on climate education started back in secondary school. I earned recognition for my efforts, which eventually led to my participation in this pivotal moment.
Excitement mixed with anxiety as I prepared for what was ahead. My mentor, Andres Neo, encouraged me to remain optimistic and absorb all that I could. This wasn’t just a chance to observe; it was an opportunity to grow and be part of something meaningful.
However, my optimism was tested. Many countries, including Singapore, sent fewer delegates this year, limiting the diverse voices needed in crucial discussions. Negotiations unfolded slowly, far from the swift decisions I had envisioned. I attended discussions on climate finance and adaptation, such as the Baku to Belém Roadmap, which aims to mobilize US$1.3 trillion annually by 2035 to support developing nations. Yet, concrete measures to transition from fossil fuels remained elusive.
Amid the process, tensions erupted. Young activists protested, emphasizing the urgency of climate action. I felt a growing sense of frustration as voices clamored to be heard, reminding me of the stakes involved. Amidst the sprawling negotiations, I lost sight of my initial hope and questioned if global cooperation was realistic.
But then I met inspiring individuals. Tishiko King, an Indigenous Australian, shared her experiences of witnessing climate change firsthand. Her commitment to advocacy showed me the importance of honoring local struggles within global discussions. She reinforced that my role involves amplifying the voices of my community in Singapore and focusing on youth-led initiatives.
During our visit to Combu Island, a community facing climate challenges, I encountered residents adapting through innovation. Samy shared stories of soil erosion and disrupted livelihoods but also spoke of how they’re using insects to manage waste and support agriculture. Their resilience highlighted that effective climate solutions often arise from necessity and local ingenuity.
For many Singaporeans, climate change feels distant, manifesting through disasters in other countries. Yet, decisions made in conferences like COP30 profoundly impact us—through food prices, rising sea levels, and our environment. Being at COP30 reminded me that feeling small doesn’t equate to being powerless. Singapore’s contributions may seem minor on a global scale, but our innovation in climate action can spark significant change.
As young people, we share responsibility. Whether living in Singapore or engaging in international forums, every action counts. I’m committed to being a part of this collective effort, determined to keep advocating for our shared future.
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