Global Alliance of Universities on Climate hosts 2024 'Climate x' High-Level Event

On November 11, the Global Alliance of Universities on Climate (GAUC) hosted its 2024 'Climate x' High-Level Event at the China Pavilion in the Blue Zone of the 29th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29). The event, the culmination of GAUC's 'Climate x' series, showcased the climate actions of the next-generation leaders in global carbon neutrality.

Prominent leaders in global climate governance attended the event, including Liu Zhenmin, special envoy for climate change of China; Rachel Kyte, special representative for climate of the UK; Felipe Paullier, UN assistant secretary-general for youth affairs; and Catherine McKenna, chair of the UN secretary-general's High-level Expert Group on Net-Zero Commitments and former minister of environment and climate change of Canada. They witnessed the achievements of student representatives and youth leaders who have made significant strides in climate action over the past year.

Liu highlighted the growing involvement of youth in climate governance, encouraging them to continue leading by example. "I hope young faces here will continue to practice low-carbon actions, demonstrate leadership, and inspire more peers to join this great cause," he said. 

Rachel Kyte praised the collaboration fostered by GAUC, bringing together students from across the globe. Felipe Paullier emphasized the importance of connecting climate action with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and Catherine McKenna stressed the urgency of addressing climate challenges and the power of multi-stakeholder collaboration.

The ceremony was followed by the presentation of certificates to graduates of the 'Climate x' Youth Leadership Training Program and GAUC Youth Ambassadors, followed by two roundtable discussions on 'Climate x Global Governance' and 'Climate x Youth Action,' featuring climate experts and youth representatives from universities around the world.

This year, nearly 880 students from 79 countries participated in the 'Climate x' Leadership Training Program, which inspired over 100 youth-led activities globally. The GAUC also launched the 'Climate Q' Campaign at COP29, an interactive quiz designed to foster collaboration and engagement across diverse pavilions.