Earth faces an existential threat – climate change. As climate change takes its toll on the planet’s environment, particularly threatening biodiversity, all segments of society must join forces to combat the phenomenon head on. At the heart of climate action is youth, the greatest change agent and the driving force behind the country’s sustainability agenda. The need of the hour is nurturing a link between youth and nature to ensure that the new generation fully comprehends the importance of protecting the environment and sustaining every living organism on this earth. Therefore, raising environmental awareness among young people and encouraging them to adopt sustainable behaviors at an early age is a national priority for the UAE.

As digital natives, young people have the capabilities and creative thinking to devise trailblazing solutions that can effectively contribute to the country’s drive to preserve its environment and natural resources. In line with the steadfast commitment of the wise UAE leadership to empowering youth, the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE), in partnership with the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, has launched the Children’s Environment Award. Its first edition is held under the theme ‘Conserving Biodiversity’