Empowering Palestinian Youth: Innovative Training to Combat Climate and Environmental Challenges

Bethlehem’s Rising Environmental Consciousness

Environmental experts are raising the alarm about the urgent need for young people to understand climate issues. They warn that without action, future generations in Palestine could face serious environmental consequences.

This discussion took place during a televised event led by the Rayhana Association, in partnership with the Palestinian Environment Quality Authority and ActionAid Palestine. The program was part of the “Plant Awareness, Harvest Change” initiative at a youth camp in Al-Azza Refugee Camp. Around 30 young men and women, aged 15 to 30, attended the camp to dive deeper into environmental challenges.

The talk, moderated by PNN’s Monjed Jadou, highlighted how factors like military actions and settlement expansions are harming Palestine’s environment. It emphasized that climate damage affects the entire region, posing serious risks to natural resources and ecosystems.

Shatha Al-Azza, director of Rayhana, shared the organization’s vision for a greener Palestine. She stressed the importance of local resource development to achieve sustainability. Rayhana works closely with schools, universities, and civil society organizations, providing training that equips young people with practical skills. Their focus includes hydroponic farming, which conserves water, and teaching leadership and advocacy.

Hadeel Akhmees, who leads the Climate Change Department at the Environment Quality Authority, echoed the urgent need for awareness. She pointed out the long-term impact of war on Gaza, including the use of banned weapons. Research shows the repercussions of these actions could last for decades, affecting air and water quality.

Recent studies indicate that environmental changes from military actions have affected at least 26 countries in the region. Akhmees urged Palestinian institutions to strengthen youth capabilities to combat climate change, despite financial and political constraints.

Yousef Juma from ActionAid emphasized that environmental rights are human rights. He noted that while Palestine suffers from climate change, it contributes minimally to global pollution. Juma advocates for early environmental education to empower society to defend its rights.

Youth participants at the camp expressed how the training opened their eyes to environmental issues. They felt empowered to take action within their communities, turning knowledge into practice.

As Palestine grapples with these challenges, initiatives like “Plant Awareness, Harvest Change” are crucial. They aim to build a more sustainable future for all, encouraging young people to become champions of environmental change.

For more insights on environmental issues affecting Palestine, you might find this report from Palestine News Network informative.

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