CBD COP17: UNDP, UNICEF launch campaign to promote green careers among young people
UNDP and UNICEF have launched a global campaign, "See It, Be It," to equip 500 million young people with skills for green careers by 2027.
Intelligence analysis by Gemini 2.5 Flash Lite
The "See It, Be It" campaign by UNDP and UNICEF aims to connect youth globally with opportunities in sustainable, nature-positive, and low-carbon sectors, fostering essential skills for the future economy.
Imagine a big job fair, but only for jobs that help the planet, like planting trees or building solar panels. UNDP and UNICEF are creating a global event to show kids and teens these "green jobs" and help them learn the skills needed, aiming to reach 500 million young people by 2027.
Analysis
See It, Be It
The "See It, Be It" campaign, launched by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), represents a significant global effort to bridge the gap between young people and the burgeoning green economy. The initiative's core objective is to empower youth by providing them with the necessary skills, knowledge, and opportunities to thrive in careers that contribute to a sustainable, nature-positive, and low-carbon future. This forward-thinking approach acknowledges the critical role young people will play in addressing global environmental challenges and driving economic transformation.
The campaign's ambitious target is to reach 500 million young people worldwide by the end of 2027. This broad reach underscores the universal need for green skills and the potential for widespread impact. By focusing on career exploration and skill-building, "See It, Be It" aims to demystify green jobs and make them accessible to a diverse global youth population. The initiative is designed to foster a generation of environmentally conscious professionals ready to innovate and lead in sectors ranging from renewable energy and sustainable agriculture to conservation and circular economy practices.
CBD COP17
The announcement of the "See It, Be It" campaign on the sidelines of the 17th session of the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD COP17) in Yerevan, Armenia, strategically places the initiative within a crucial international forum dedicated to biodiversity conservation and sustainable development. This context highlights the campaign's alignment with global environmental agendas and its potential to influence policy and action related to nature-based solutions and green job creation. The COP17 setting provides a platform for high-level engagement and partnership building, essential for the campaign's success.
By linking career development directly to the outcomes of biodiversity conventions, the campaign emphasizes the interconnectedness of environmental protection and economic opportunity. It signals a shift towards integrating sustainability into mainstream career pathways, recognizing that a healthy planet is fundamental to long-term economic prosperity. The presence of UNDP and UNICEF at such a high-profile event lends significant weight and credibility to the initiative, encouraging broader participation from governments, educational institutions, and the private sector.
Young People
The campaign's explicit focus on "young people" is a recognition of their demographic significance and their stake in the future. Globally, youth populations are substantial, and many face challenges related to unemployment and underemployment. "See It, Be It" offers a proactive solution by equipping them with skills relevant to the jobs of tomorrow, many of which will be in sectors dedicated to environmental sustainability. This focus is particularly pertinent in regions like Africa, where a large youth demographic presents both a challenge and an opportunity for economic growth and development.
By investing in the skills and employability of young people in green sectors, the campaign aims to foster a sense of agency and purpose, enabling them to become active participants in building a sustainable future. This approach not only addresses immediate economic needs but also cultivates a generation of leaders and innovators committed to environmental stewardship. The success of "See It, Be It" could lead to more inclusive and resilient economies, driven by a workforce equipped for the environmental realities of the 21st century.
Key points
- UNDP and UNICEF launched the "See It, Be It" global campaign.
- The initiative aims to promote green careers and skills for young people.
- It seeks to reach 500 million young people worldwide by the end of 2027.
- The campaign was announced at the CBD COP17 conference.
- It focuses on building skills for a sustainable, nature-positive, low-carbon future.
The campaign could significantly boost youth employment in sustainable sectors across Africa, fostering a generation equipped to tackle climate change and drive economic growth. It may also encourage more investment in green infrastructure and education tailored to environmental needs.
Challenges in implementation, such as varying educational standards and access to technology across different regions, could limit the campaign's reach and effectiveness. Without strong partnerships and sustained funding, the goal of reaching 500 million young people might be difficult to achieve.
