Tackling climate change requires more than just enthusiasm from young people.

 Climate justice isn’t just a political issue — it’s a moral responsibility. And young people should not only care about it, but also actively engage in finding solutions. This responsibility is even greater in countries like Nepal, where the effects of climate change are visible and ongoing.

Recently, I was invited to speak at an online event organized by two youth-led organizations — the Lumbini chapter of Youth Initiative and a newer group called Youth Unity. Alongside Anusa Karki, co-founder of Planet Pulse, we discussed how young people can move from being concerned about climate change to actually doing something meaningful about it.

Taking action might sound simple, but it isn’t always easy. Real action requires real understanding. Even small efforts — like organizing a clean-up drive, planting trees, or running awareness campaigns — need proper planning and knowledge to be truly effective.

At first, it’s okay for beginners to take action with some guidance, even if they don’t fully understand everything. But if young people want to seriously contribute to the climate movement, they must invest time in learning.

Learning Matters — Especially in a Changing World

We can’t fight climate change effectively without knowing what we’re dealing with. Climate issues are deeply complex and linked to many other global problems — like artificial intelligence and shifts in democracy.

The rise of AI is an example. We’re approaching a time when Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) could match or exceed human abilities. Tools like ChatGPT are only the beginning. Unfortunately, instead of learning deeply, people often take shortcuts using AI — which can be risky. Moreover, AI development consumes large amounts of energy, creating a direct link between technology and climate impact.

At the same time, democracy is under stress. Around the world, people are losing trust in democratic systems, and populist forces are gaining ground. In Nepal too, there’s growing dissatisfaction with politics. Corruption and lack of results make it hard for young people to feel hopeful or motivated.

This frustration isn't unique to Nepal. Even in countries like India, the U.S., and across Europe, democratic systems are being tested. And when politics fails to deliver, people — especially youth — start looking for radical alternatives, often moving toward the far right.

Why Good Politics Matters for Climate Action

Climate change and AI aren’t just scientific or environmental issues — they’re also political ones. Without effective governance, it’s impossible to implement strong climate policies.

Yes, politics can be frustrating. But young people shouldn’t give up on it. One option is to run for office, though that path is difficult. Another powerful alternative is to become knowledgeable in policymaking and contribute as experts.

This brings us back to a key message: doing and knowing must go hand in hand. You don’t need to be a scientist to understand climate change, but you do need curiosity and commitment to learn.

Nepal Needs to Do More Than Just Talk

Events like the Sagarmatha Summit are good starting points — but they’re not enough. Nepal needs to step up and play a bigger role in international climate negotiations. Simply raising the issue isn’t enough anymore. We need to bring new ideas and concrete solutions to the table.

But there’s a catch: the world is changing, and not in our favor. Geopolitics is shifting rapidly. A few years ago, at COP26 in Glasgow, there was real momentum around climate action. But today, that energy is fading. Conflicts like Russia’s war in Ukraine have shifted priorities — and governments are now focusing more on military spending than climate finance.

The EU, once a leader in climate policy, is now under pressure to water down its Green Deal. Defense budgets are growing, and climate budgets are shrinking. This global shift is bad news for vulnerable countries like Nepal that rely on international climate funds, especially for Loss and Damage compensation.

So what should Nepal do? The country must build strong governance systems and prove it can manage its own resources effectively. Only then can we reduce dependence on foreign aid and take bold steps in climate action on our own terms.

Knowledge + Action = Leadership

For real change to happen, young people must combine knowledge with action. But even that isn’t enough to transform the political system.

However, there is hope.

A new model of democracy is emerging worldwide: deliberative democracy. This is when ordinary citizens come together to discuss complex issues — including climate — and help shape policy decisions. These practices are being formalized in many countries and offer young people a real opportunity to participate in governance.

Nepal has its own traditions of consultation and discussion — and we can build on them. By creating more spaces where people, especially youth, can share their voices, we can push for reforms and drive change.

Final Thoughts

To fight climate change effectively, Nepal needs both international support and strong local policies. Young people have a vital role to play — but passion alone won’t get us there. We must invest in learning, policymaking, and community leadership.

Deliberative democracy offers a fresh path forward, giving young people a chance to shape decisions. But the journey starts with knowledge — the foundation for self-empowerment and meaningful leadership.