“When I started learning about climate change, I realised that I am actually feeling it every day”
Ahead of World Environment Day, we spoke with 21-year-old Maja Ibričić, a passionate activist and youth advocate from Tuzla, Bosnia and Herzegovina, on the importance of engaging young people in climate action
What motivated you to become a climate activist?
Recognising that climate change and air pollution are major issues that require immediate action led me to become an advocate for change. Air pollution and climate change are linked, and air pollutants and greenhouse gases often come from the same sources, such as coal power plants. Tuzla is my hometown, and air pollution increases when winter comes. When air pollution is extreme, my friends and I prefer to stay at home than be outdoors. This personal experience made me realise that I want to contribute to some sort of change. I want to talk with people about climate change and air pollution, to share experiences and possible actions. As a Center for Ecology and Energy member, and in partnership with UNICEF, I have implemented some great ideas throughout the project YOUTH FOR CLEAN AIR. The most important thing was working with the young people from Bosnia and Herzegovina and recognizing that we are all really concerned about our future. Concern leads to action.
Can you share an example of when you were engaged in climate and environmental action?
I have been advocating for youth engagement and education on this topic for years. We have organized peaceful protests with hundreds of people gathering. I consider it essential to get the conversations around climate change going in Bosnia and Herzegovina, as this is not a well-known topic in my country. That is why I do my best to educate people about the impact and importance of climate change. People want to know the benefits of taking climate action for a better future.
How should authorities engage young people to be more involved in climate and environmental decision-making processes?
By establishing platforms specifically designed to engage young people in climate and environmental decision-making. These platforms could be youth councils, committees, or forums that provide a space for young people to express their opinions and ideas. I think it is also important to support and fund youth-led organizations that focus on climate and environmental action. These organizations can serve as effective channels for youth engagement and provide a platform for their voices to be heard.
Authorities can also establish mentorship programs that connect young people with experienced professionals and policymakers in climate and the environment. These mentorship opportunities can help youth gain knowledge, guidance, and networks to contribute effectively to decision-making processes.
By investing in youth-driven projects, authorities demonstrate their commitment to empowering young people and encourage their active involvement. Above all, I think that recognizing and celebrating young people’s contributions is very important. This can be done through awards, scholarships and public recognition to motivate and inspire youth engagement.
What are the impacts of climate change that you already experience daily?
When I started learning about climate change, I realised that I am actually feeling it every day. The first thing that comes to my mind is extreme weather events. Climate change has increased the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, such as floods, that my country experienced in the past month and in recent years. I have also noticed that shifting seasons are directly linked to warmer global temperatures. I don't think we have spring, summer, winter and autumn as we used to. Heatwaves and air pollution are constantly making people more stressed out.
What message would you like to give policymakers and other young people to motivate them into action for a healthy environment?
When it comes to policymakers, I want to say that their decisions hold the power to shape our future, and it is crucial to prioritize the health of our environment. I want them to recognize that environmental challenges are not separate from societal progress but interconnected with it.
Young people, YOU have the power to shape the world you inherit and the responsibility to protect our environment. Your actions matter, and your voices are powerful catalysts for change. Seek knowledge about climate change, speak up, and demand action. It is important to be a role model, to get involved, connect and collaborate for a healthy future. Let your voices be heard, and let your actions inspire others to act for a better world.
