Federal Youth Climate Council Quietly Ends. California Responds.
California is launching its own Environmental Youth Advisory Council to empower young people to shape climate policy. This move comes as a federal program, the National Environmental Youth Advisory Council, appears to have quietly ended. With young people disproportionately vulnerable to worsening climate hazards like extreme heat and wildfires, California is stepping in to ensure their voices are heard. The new state council aims to build leadership skills and directly involve youth ages 14 to 20 in vital environmental decisions. This initiative underscores the urgent need for action as climate change threatens future generations.
The federal government's National Environmental Youth Advisory Council, which previously engaged young people in environmental discussions, has quietly dissolved. Its charter expired last year, and no new members were appointed by the current administration. This leaves a significant gap for youth wanting to influence environmental policy at a national level.
In response, California is creating its own Environmental Youth Advisory Council, offering a crucial platform for young minds. Governor Gavin Newsom emphasized that this council ensures young people can actively engage in climate action and help shape the future of their environment. This initiative is especially vital because children and young adults face increasingly severe challenges from climate change, including intense heat, dangerous wildfires, and polluted air, as highlighted by a UNICEF report.
The state's move comes at a time when federal environmental protections are being scaled back, impacting efforts like California's clean car standards. California Environmental Protection Agency Secretary Yana Garcia noted that since young people will inherit our environmental legacy, their diverse perspectives must be heard and honored in current decision-making.
The new CalEPA council invites individuals aged 14 to 20 to apply, especially those from diverse backgrounds and small communities, with no prior experience required. The inaugural group of 10 will serve a one-year pilot term, offering recommendations on state environmental policy. This program represents a direct investment in the voices of future generations, ensuring they are active participants in building a sustainable future.