Youth in Odisha are demonstrating that local initiatives can create lasting climate impact, said Sabyasachi Senapati, an M.Sc Chemistry student at Samanta Chandra Sekhar (S.C.S) Autonomous College, Puri.
Speaking at the 2nd Yuva Sustainability Conference (Online) titled “Beyond COP30: Empowering Youth for Climate Action”, Senapati highlighted the role of young people in regenerating mangroves in coastal areas, promoting climate-smart farming, and running grassroots awareness campaigns. “By combining local knowledge with green skills, we are building resilient communities and a sustainable future for rural Odisha,” he said.
Sabyasachi emphasised that climate resilience begins at the community level, where youth-led initiatives integrate traditional wisdom with modern sustainability practices. These local efforts not only strengthen ecosystems but also empower communities to take ownership of climate solutions, ensuring long-term environmental and social benefits.
The conference was organised by Voices of Bharat: Yuva for Sustainability, a Sustainability Karma initiative, with Lok Samvad Sansthan as the implementation partner, in association with the Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Jamia Millia Islamia. The programme provided a platform for young innovators to share practical solutions and demonstrate the power of youth-led climate action.