From June 23rd to July 7th, Chuka University in Kenya hosted the transformative Nairobi Summer School on Climate Justice. The event focused on the theme “Igniting Youth Power to Enhance Global Solidarity on Climate Justice,” and provided an enriching experience for participants. As the Communications and Advocacy Officer at PELUM Eswatini, I had the privilege of attending this impactful event, which aimed to equip young leaders with the knowledge and skills necessary to address climate change and advocate for climate justice.
What is Climate Justice?
Climate justice seeks to ensure an equitable distribution of both the burdens of climate change and the efforts to mitigate its effects. This concept emphasizes fairness in climate policies and actions, recognizing that those least responsible for climate change often suffer its most severe consequences.
Understanding Climate Change
Climate change refers to long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns, primarily driven by human activities since the 1800s. The burning of fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and gas has significantly increased the concentration of heat-trapping gases in the atmosphere, leading to global warming and associated climate disruptions.
Theme: Igniting Youth Power to Enhance Global Solidarity on Climate Justice
The summer school focused on empowering youth to take a leading role in advocating for climate justice. The program included a series of lectures, discussions, and practical sessions designed to deepen participants’ understanding of climate change and equip them with the tools to drive meaningful change in their communities.
Topics Covered
Introduction to Key Concepts of Climate Change and Climate Justice
• Basic science behind climate change
• Human and natural factors contributing to climate change
• Mitigation and adaptation strategies
Introduction to Climate Change, Causes, Impacts, and Response Measures
• Examining the Earth’s climate system
• Impacts of climate change and potential solutions
• Successful interventions and ongoing efforts
Assessing Climate Solutions
• Urgency of addressing climate change
• Effective and sustainable climate solutions
Energy and Climate Change
• Understanding global warming mechanisms
• Importance of energy efficiency
• Strategies for reducing reliance on fossil fuels
Just Transition and Energy Access
The concept of energy transition involves shifting from fossil-based systems to renewable energy sources like wind and solar. This transition is crucial for limiting climate change. Actions at both community and national levels are needed to achieve a fair and equitable energy transition.
Climate Finance
Climate finance refers to financial resources for climate change mitigation, adaptation, or resiliency. Understanding climate finance mechanisms and the global landscape is essential for developing effective climate projects.
Policies in Place in Eswatini
Eswatini has implemented policies such as the National Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan (2015–2020) and the Eswatini National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan. These policies aim to enhance adaptive capacity to climate change and promote biodiversity conservation.
Session Highlights
• Climate Change Causes and Impacts: Understanding historical data and trends.
• Mitigation Strategies Workshop: Practical solutions for reducing carbon footprints.
• Climate Justice Panel Discussion: Inclusive policies for vulnerable populations.
• Interactive Climate Vulnerability Assessment: Tools for mapping vulnerabilities and prioritizing actions.
Benefits to PELUM Eswatini
Attending the Nairobi Summer School on Climate Justice will bring several benefits to PELUM Eswatini’s member organizations:
- Improved Advocacy: Advanced skills in climate justice advocacy can be shared to enhance advocacy efforts within member organizations.