#China #Beijing #climate action #Tsinghua University #Youth Leadership

The Fifth Global Youth Summit: A Call to Action for Climate Leaders

On October 31, 2025, the Fifth Global Youth Summit, dubbed "Net-Zero Future", took place at Tsinghua University in Beijing. This summit, organized by the Global Alliance of Universities on Climate (GAUC), gathered a diverse group of young leaders, scholars, and practitioners from around the world to discuss climate policy in light of the upcoming COP30 in Belém, Brazil. The primary aim was to share knowledge and innovative solutions that could contribute to global climate action.

Opening Remarks and Insights

The event commenced with a warming address by Professor Shi Zongkai, the deputy chairman of Tsinghua's university council, who emphasized the crucial role of youth in spearheading climate change initiatives. He affirmed the university's commitment to fostering global partnerships and enhancing the role of higher education in climate policy.

Laurence Tubiana, CEO of the European Climate Foundation, conveyed a video message celebrating the indelible importance of the Paris Agreement and commending young people for their contributions toward a climate-neutral future. Her insights underscored the need for continued commitment and action from this vibrant demographic.

During his keynote address, Prof. Peter Hennicke, former director of the Wuppertal Institute, explored systemic pathways towards achieving net-zero emissions, promoting circular economies, and enhancing overall well-being. He urged the delegations to draw lessons from global best practices and maintain an optimistic stance towards solutions.

Engaging Initiatives and Campaigns

Alice Ho, Chief Youth Officer of GAUC, introduced the "Climate x" campaign, revealing significant youth involvement from 79 countries, reaching over five million individuals. She spotlighted the Global Youth Climate Week, which since its inception in 2022 has hosted over 100 events across more than 20 nations, showcasing innovative youth actions in education, clean energy, fashion, health, and disaster relief.

The summit featured interactive segments including Youth Climate Talks and intergenerational dialogues, where young delegates shared experiences and insights gained from COP29 and other initiatives. Industry experts from companies like BMW, Airbus, and EcoVoyage provided practical perspectives on sustainable business practices, circular economy strategies, and youth empowerment.

A Focus on Collaboration and Capacity Building

The discussions revolved around themes such as ecological transformation and practical strategies for sustainability. Participants emphasized the urgency of taking initiative, fostering collaboration, and acquiring essential skills to meet climate challenges. Academics and practitioners highlighted the significance of international cooperation, political awareness, and the integration of academic knowledge into actionable measures for meaningful impact.

As the summit drew to a close, speakers reinforced the need for participants to translate their insights into actionable outcomes. They encouraged attendees to disseminate the knowledge acquired and lead by example in promoting a sustainable, climate-neutral future.

Conclusion: A Unified Front for Climate Action

The Fifth Global Youth Summit served as a clarion call for young leaders worldwide to rally for climate action and sustainability initiatives. With a robust showcase of collaboration and innovation, the profiles of youth were elevated as pivotal players in the quest for a net-zero future. The collective insights shared and the spirit of determination displayed at the summit inspire hope and action as we collectively face the pressing challenges of our environment.