Inaugural Caribbean Youth Environment & Climate Change Conference set for Jamaica

The Caribbean Youth Climate Council (CYCC), an organization representing young people across CARICOM member nations, is set to host its first-ever Caribbean Youth Environment & Climate Change Conference from September 9 to 12, 2025, in Kingston, Jamaica.

The Council issued a press release sharing that the landmark gathering aims to unite youth representatives, government officials, environmental specialists, and development partners to exchange knowledge, enhance skills, and foster collaboration in tackling the region’s pressing climate and environmental issues.

CYCC says that the emphasis will be on empowering youth, advocating for environmental causes, fostering partnerships, and engaging in policy discussions. Participants will explore critical subjects such as marine conservation, biodiversity preservation, climate finance, renewable energy sources, climate-smart farming practices, and environmental justice. Attendees will also have the chance to suggest and present additional topics that resonate with their local communities and the broader Caribbean context.

Mario Galbert, the Executive Coordinator of CYCC, highlighted the urgency of the occasion: “According to a study published in Science, Caribbean coral reefs have lost approximately 80% of their hard coral cover over the past three decades, a harsh indicator that our ecosystems and coastal communities are in crisis.”

“This conference arrives at a pivotal moment, placing youth at the forefront of conservation and policy action to champion the resilience our region urgently needs,” he added.

This inaugural conference aims to bolster young leaders’ influence in policymaking and decision-making processes by providing them with practical tools and extensive networks.

According to the CYCC, “By creating a platform for young leaders to develop solutions, share innovations, and influence decision-makers, the Caribbean Youth Environment and Climate Change Conference will take a critical step toward building a resilient, sustainable, and equitable future.”