Monrovia, Liberia – Over 150 young Liberians from all over the nation have received the chance to take the lead in establishing the nation’s climate action agenda during the two-day 2025 edition of the Local Conference of Youth (LCOY) Liberia, which was held in Ganta City, Nimba County from November 7–8.
The youth-led project, supported by the Youth Climate Finance Alliance and other partners, sought to increase Liberia’s climate resilience through environmental education, sustainable development, forest conservation, and renewable energy.
LCOY Liberia 2025, supported by YOUNGO, the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change’s (UNFCCC) youth constituency, provided a forum to bring together young climate advocates ahead of COP30, which is scheduled to take place in Belém, Brazil. “Youth Driving Climate Solutions for a Resilient Future” was the theme of the event.
The event, which was organized by the Improve Liberia Cooperation Movement (ILCM) in association with several youth organizations, brought together government officials, decision-makers, development partners, and members of civil society, all of whom demonstrated a strong commitment to youth-led climate solutions.
The gathering is a significant turning point for young involvement in environmental policy, according to Buutay K. Buu, Lead Organizer of LCOY Liberia 2025. In order to create a sustainable and resilient Liberia, “delegates from all 15 counties engaged in discussions on climate finance, reforestation, green entrepreneurship, and renewable energy,” he stated.
He added that LCOY Liberia guarantees that “the voices of young Liberians are heard and represented in shaping international climate policy” by connecting local climate initiatives to the global COP process.
The adoption of a Unified National Youth Statement, which outlines important priorities and policy proposals to be presented at COP30, was a significant highlight of the conference. Community-based climate action, environmental education, and more regional collaboration among West African youth groups were highlighted in the proclamation.
Zimbabwean climate activist Silungile Moyo, an international participant, praised the event for encouraging African youth to unite in the struggle against climate change. She declared, “Our generation is leading progress, rather than waiting for it. Together, we are developing a future based on fortitude, accountability, and optimism.”
Liberia’s set climate targets are to become carbon neutral by 2050 and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 64% below business-as-usual levels by 2030.
A Ministry of Education representative Alvin M. Zopoe advocated for the inclusion of climate change education in school curricula. “Environmental awareness should be taught in every Liberian high school,” he stated. “This will enable us to achieve both national and international sustainability goals.”
At the end of LCOY Liberia 2025, young people reaffirmed their commitment to growing grassroots climate initiatives and working more closely with legislators to advance the nation’s environmental concerns.
Reported by: Prince Saah
